Week 2 Reflection

One of the key points that really stuck with me from the set reading this week was the key perspectives of studio shows. Studio shows are generally viewed from three perspectives: as inferior to ‘quality’ single-camera TV, as embodying an ‘elite’ production aesthetic that reflects an ideology of liveness, or as products of an assembly-line style of production (Dwyer, 2019). I am aware of how TV in general is not taken as seriously as cinema, but I had not yet realised that studio shows are taken even less seriously. This made me reflect on how multi-camera productions, despite their efficiency and ability to capture real-time performances, are often dismissed as simplistic or formulaic. The association of “quality” with single-camera TV highlights how industry and audience perceptions are shaped by its visual aspects rather than just content. It also made me consider my own viewing habits. I consume a lot of sitcoms including some multi-camera productions that I find funnier due to their lower-budget appearance, so I do think this works really well depending on genre.

I also found the concept of dominant design (Dwyer, 2019) particularly interesting, as it deepened my understanding of how to effectively use the studio space. Since we’re still in the early stages of working in the studio, it’s crucial to be aware of the unique purposes and constraints of studio shows. The reduced emphasis on editing means that pre-production plays a vital role in ensuring a well-planned and polished final product. This makes instincts essential for everyone involved, as there’s little room for drastic changes once the production goes live.

At the same time, I’ve been reflecting on the limitations of studio production. The confined space and controlled lighting create a reduced sense of depth, establishing clear boundaries that we must work within. This makes set design a critical factor in maximising the minimal space available, which is another factor I will consider before we film our first talk show next week.

Reference/s:

• Dwyer, P. (2019). Understanding Media Production, [Chapter three: Producing Studio Shows], Routledge.