Frequently used terms in television and video production.

BRIEF
GLOSSARY OF
VIDEO TERMINOLOGY
Every industry has its own terminology,

Its own language. Videography is no exception,

Using the correct term is the mark of a expert,

Someone who has taken the time to become proficient in the field.

EDIT BY RAJA. M. RIAZ KHAN has produced this booklet to help you “learn the lingo.”

Abc Tv/video world

A

A&B Rolls Source material placed on separate videotapes to create translations between
sequences. Alternately placing sequences on one roll designated the “A” roll, then following
sequences are put on another roll designated the “B” roll, onto a third master roll by using such
equipment as video switchers and special effects modules.

Abekas Manufacturer of a variety of picture manipulation tools and still store devices. Abekas is
quickly becoming a buzzword for a device which allows digital layering.

Ad-lib Dialogue or action that is completely spontaneous and unrehearsed.

Ado The acronym for “ Ampex Digital Optics,” a digital video effects device, incorporating
video manipulation of size, aspect or perspective. One or mor4e channels of ADO are available.

Amplifier A device that can magnify an electrical signal, either audio or video for mixing,
distribution, and transducing purposes.

Amplitude Measurement of the intensity of an electromagnetic wave.

Animation Picture elements that are drawn, In stop motion animation, a film is shot one frame
at time, with the drawing changed with each shot.

Anti-aliasing_ The process of making a jagged-looking line. Composed of pixels, appear smooth.
Commonly used in video graphics or character generation.

Aperture The opening in the camera lenses that determines how much light will pass through.

Arc Movement of the entire camera unti Un:1 in a semi-circle fashion.

Arcing A combination trucking, panning, and dolling movement, in which the camera is
moved in an arc around a subject while the camera head is always pointed toward the same subject.

Aspect ration The ratio of the height of the television screen (three units high) to its width ( four
units wide).

Audio Booth ( audio control room) The room where all audio signals are controlled and mixed.
All audio inputs ( microphones, prerecorded tapes and CDs) are centrally controlled and then sent
on to a master control room, video recorder, or transmitter.

Audio Compressors An electronic device used to bring weak audio levels up to an averaged
volume.

Audio Engineer The studio technician responsible for recording? Playing sound, also handles
microphone levels, mixing voice and music tracks, etc.

Audio Operator The crew member responsible for all audio and sound for the production.
The operator selects microphones, positions them on the set and talent, tests microphones in sound
checks, and mixes the audio during the production.

Audio Signal Flow The theoretical schematic model that sequentially traces every step of the
audio path from the microphone (or other audio source) to the home radio or receiver.

Audio The sound portion of a television production.

Auto Assembly/auto conforming Automatic editing of videotape to conform to a previously
generated edit decision list.

Automatic Gain Control(AGC) An internal control device, for either audio or video signals, that
automatically increases and decreases (as needed) the strength of the incoming sound or picture in
order to maintain optimum signal strength for recording, play back, editing and other production
purposes.

Ava( ampex video art) An electronic paint system considered to provide the finest resolution in
electronic paint systems.

Axis of Action/Conversation An imaginary line that either extends the path in which a character is
moving or connects two people talking to each other. All cameras should remain on the same side of
the line.

Back Proch The part of a composite signal that follows the horizontal sync pulse and extends to
the trailing edge of the corresponding blanking pulse.

Back time To calculate an in-point by selecting the outpoint and subtracting the duration, i.e..
the length of the edit.

Back Timing The process of timing a piece of music or other audio track so that it can be started
at a precise point with the video-in order to make the sound and the picture end at the same time .

Back drop The curtain, drop, or painted scenery behind an acting area.

Balance 1. In audio, the achievement of the correct ratio among several sound sources. 2.
Visually, the relative composition and stability among elements in the picture.

Balance, Asymmetrical An informal arrangement in which an important object placed close to the
center of the picture is balanced by a lightweight object some distance from the center.

Balance, Symmetrical Formal arrangement with the most important element centered in the
picture and other equal objects placed equidistant from the center.

Banding Severe breakup of picture where the horizontal strip of the video signal has lost its
sync.

Barn Doors Movable metal shutters attached to the front of the lighting instrument that are used
to limit the area of the projected light.

Beam Splitter This is the optical device is a color camera, consisting of a prism and mirrors that
separtes the incoming visual image into the primary colors: blue, red, and green.

Beta One The older Sony Betamax1/2-inch wide helical scan home-recording/playback
technology, with a standard (optimum) recording time of one hour.
Beta Two A Song Betamax (newer than Beta One)1?2-inch wide tape helical scan home
recording technology, with a standard (optimum) recording time of one-and-one-half hours.

Betacam A broadcast- quality camcorder manufactured by Sony.

Beveled Edges Replacing a 90- degree edge with another edge that has extra faces at different
angles.

Black Level The level of the television picture signal corresponding to the maximum limit of
black peaks.

Black Technically, a synchronized video signal that contains no pictu4re information A black
screen.

Blacking (laying down black) The process of preparing a master videotape for editing by recording
black on the tape _ In actuality, recording the control track so that a continuous sync pulse is
available for editing.

Blanking A signal, which prevents the video information, from registering on the face of a
cathode ray tube. As a moving scanning-beam of a picture tube moves from the end of one ling of
picture information to the beginning of the next ( or makes a longer move to the upper left corner of
an entirely new picture field of video information), It must not make visible signal marks on the face
of the tube. In effect, the scanning beam must be blacked out during these moves. The signal
controlling this blackout is called the “ blanking period” or “ blanking interval.”

Blocking Careful planning and coordinating of all movement and positioning of talent and
production equipment.

Boom A crane or arm holding a microphone or a camera.

Bosch BTS 3-D animation system.

Breakdown Sheet A production outline of the script, breaking down each scene in terms of
location, cast and crew needed, props, equipment , etc. It is helpful in planning remote productions
so that all scenes in one location or all scenes involving a certain actor or spokesperson can be shot
at the same time, regardless of the actual sequence of the final program.

Brightness (lightness, value) 1. The intensity for the picture on a television tube. 2. An indication
of whe4re a color would fall on a scale from light (white) to dark( black) corresponds to the gray
scale for monochrome television.

Bump Mapping Putting a physical 3-D textures or “ bumps” onto any 2-D, 3-D, or curved
surface.

Bump Up (Dupe up, or dub up) To duplicate from a smaller sized format to a larger one, e.g… from
one-inch videotape format to two-inch format. Commonly requires use of a time-base corrector.

Burn In 1. To superimpose for example to burn in a title means to super a title (usually white) over a
scene. 2. Temporary or permanent damages to a camera pickup tube caused by focusing the camera
on an excessively strong light source like the sun or a high-powered light.

Bus 1. A common audio circuit that collects signals from several audio sources and feeds them
into one source(ex. A mix bus feeds the combined audio signal to the master potentiometer). 2. The
row of buttons representing various video sources on the switcher (also called a bank).
C

Camcorder An integrated unit that contains both a camera and videotape recorder in one
housing.

Camera Chain The electronic camera plus associated equipment such as the sync generator, camera
control unit, etc.

Camera control Unit(CCU) Electronic control equipment , usually located in the master control
area that regulates all of the engineering function of each camera.

Camera Field What the camera “Sees.”

Camera Head ( Camera)The electronic picture pickup device, which include the lens o(or lenses),
pick up tube ( or tubes), and viewfinder, The camera serves as a video transducer that coverts
incoming light energy (pictures) into electrical signals.

Camera mount The sup port arrangement that holds the camera-mounting head and the camera
itself_ Usually a movable tripod, pedestal, or crane.

Camera Mounting Head( Pan head) The mechanism that connects the camera itself to the
camera amount; it allows the camera head to be tilted vertically and to be panned horizontally.

Camera Operator The crew member responsible for operation of the camera, basic shot
composition, and set-up/ break down of the camera. Camera operators also assist in set assembly
and disassembly and lighting as needed.

Camera Pattern The basic positioning and blocking of studio cameras for a particular
sequence.

Camera Unit The entire place of equipment used by the camera operator. This includes the
camera head, mount , pedestal, and the base.

Cartridge An audiotape of videotape recording and/ Or playback unit that contains both
supply reel and take-up reel in a self –contained case.

CCD(charge-coupled device) A microchip consisting of a photodiode and transistor that is used to

pick up picture information, replacing the conventional picture tube pickup tube.

C-Clamp A metal clamp with a pivot adjustment for attaching lighting instruments to a lighting
grid.

Channel The specific pathway used to get signal from source to destination. In audio, it may
refer to one of a number of available lines (input channels) within an audio console where various
control functions such as volume, equalization, and routing take place for that specific line.

Character Generator(CG) A special electronic effects device with a typewriter like keyboard
that can produce letters and numerals directly on the television screen.

Chromakey A matting system using a particular chroma (Color) for keying. A special effects color
matte whereby a specific color, usually green or blue, is used as a key to determine what picture
information is to be cut out of the picture with the foreground image.

Chrominance Channel The color portion of a video signal that contains hue and saturation
information, as opposed to luminance information.
Clear It Arrange for the use of copyrighted material (very important for your legal
protection).

Clipping Any action that cuts off the peaks of the television signal. This may affect the
positive (white) or negative (black) picture signals peaks or synchronous signal peaks.

Color Bars An electronically generated pattern of vertical color strips, which when sent through
the switcher can be used to standardize and calibrate the color values on all camera, monitors, etc.

Color Black A composite video signal containing sync, burst and set-up signals (with-out
distortion or video information distortion or video information and constituting a black picture on
the screen. Black is used for recording a standard. Unchanging control track level on the tape, to be
employed for insert-type edits. “ Going to black” or” fading to black” is figuratively like bringing down
the curtain on a scene. See also, “ reference black”

Color Burst Part of the composite video signal produced by a camera (or reproduced by as VTR)
that serves as a reference point for the receiving tube. This pulse synchronizes the three incoming
color signals.

Color Burst Part of the composite video signal produced by a camera (or reproduced by as VTR)
that serves as a reference point for the receiving tube. This pulse synchronizes the three incoming
color signals.

Color Correction Alteration of colors within a scene to achieve a specially or more realistically
colored reproduction of the original scene. Also refers to the correction of whites, grays and blacks.

Color Framing The joining of frames of video to assure the continuation of phase relationship of the
color reference.

Color Temperature The relative reddish or bluish quality of a light source, as measured in
degrees Kelvin.

Color Test Pattern A test signal that provides the reference characteristics by which color
equipment is adjusted for color accuracy. The color bar test pattern is used for checking and
adjusting such things as encoders, VTRs, color picture monitors and receivers. Also called” color bars”
or “bars.”

Compact DISC Interactive This is an evolving optical disc technology which combines audio,
visual, text, graphic and interactive capabilities including partial screen display and full motion video.

Component Video A no composite system in which a color picture is composed of three-video

signals, typically red, green and blue, or derivatives thereof.

Composite Signal Also known as composite analog video. Video signal that contains both
chrominance and luminance picture information as a single feed.

Console (Audio Board) The control panel or mixing board where all audio signals can be amplified,
combined, shaped, and channeled.

Contrast Ratio The ratio of the brightest area to the darkest area in a given camera shot as
determined by reflected light readings.

Contro room (Video booth, studio control room) The room where all video signals are
mixed. The director and technical director control all program elements from this location.
Sometimes audio and lighting control will also be incorporated into the same area.
Control Track The recorded track of videotape that contains sync information . It consists of clean,
consistent electronic reference pulses (One per frame) recorded on the tape. The edit controller
counts these pulses to locate relative frame positions, The control track is used by the VTR for proper
synchronization for playback of the video signal.

Controller (edit controller) the electronic editing control console that actually controls both the
source deck and edit deck and executes the edit.

Corner insert A split screen with one camera inserted into a specific quadrant of the picture.

Countdown A series of numbers, visual and audible, counted backward (usually from ten to two )
indicating the number of seconds on a videotape before program material starts.

Cover short (establishing short) An all-inclusive long shot that, by its collective nature,
establishes the relationships of performers and other elements in a given scene.

Coaxial Cable(coax) Standard camera and video cable with a central insulated conducting wire
and a concentrically arranged outer wire.

Crabbing Moving the dolly bas sideways, similar to a trucking shot.

Crawl Usually, the titles and credits mounted on a drum and revolved. It looks as if the type is
creeping up or down the screen.

Cropping Cutting off the edged or border of a picture.

Cross-fade 1. An audio transition in which one sound is faded out while another is
simultaneously faded in (similar to a video dissolve).1. A video transition in which one picture is
faded out and another picture is immediately faded in from black ( similar to an audio segue).

Cue 1. To give a signal to the talent to start, or perform a certain action. 2. To prepare an audio
source ( record of audiotape ) for a precise start at some predetermined time.

Cue cards Large, lightweight cards, containing either script material or content outline, held
next to the camera for the talent to read.

Cue Position ( audition position) A position on most audio pots and faders that connects the
audio source to separate nonprogram cue amplifier and speaker to enable the audio operator to
listen to the source without interfering with the program audio.

Cue-set The editing function that allows the edit controller to ”remember” a specific edit
event on both the source and master tapes, thereby allowing the operator to preview and execute
the actual edit.

Cut 1. T eliminate some program material , leave out part of the script. 2. To interrupt a
rehearsal.

Cut Button (take bar) A switcher feature that enables the operator to instantaneously alternate
the preview ad program bank. The preview is on the air(program) and the program bank is
converted to the preview.

Dailies The videotape or film footage shot during a day’s production sessions.
Deadpot An audio technique, usually used in conjunction with back timing , where a piece of
music or other audio material is started at a predetermined point, with the poet closed; the
potentiometer is then opened when the audio is wanted.

Depth of field The distance between the nearest point at which objects are in focus and the most
distant point at which objects are in focus.

Depth staging The use of foreground and background elements in order to give a feeling of depth
to the television picture.

Diaphragm 1. The vibration element in a dynamic microphone that responds to the compressed
air molecules of sound waves. 2. The adjustable mechanism that controls the size of the lens
aperture.

Digital An encoding method which uses binary numbers to represent data, such as video,
audio or other signal information.

Digitize To convert information into representative number. To convert analog information

into digital information.

Director While tape is rolling this crew member is responsible for the production. The director
is responsible for coordinating all the technical elements of the production ( camera shorts, pacing ,
transition ) according to the producer’s instruction.

Director, Floor (stage manager, floor manager) The director’s key assistant in charge of all
production concerns on the studio floor. This crew member is the directors’ eyes and ears on the
studio floor. The floor director relays commands from the director to the talent and is responsible for
cueing talent and giving time cues throughout the production.

Director, Lighting The crew member who is responsible for the design and function of all
lighting instruments needed for the production and along with assistants selects which lights are to
be used, positions and adjusts them on the lighting grid, and operates any additional lighting for
effects used during the production.

Dissolve A slow cross fade. A type of edit in which one source of video or audio gradually
fades out while at the same time another source fades in , with the two pictures overlapping briefly.
Also called a “ mix.”

Dolly A low flate fame set on small wheels or rollers, used for moving camera toward on way from
the action. Movement of the camera unit either forward or backward.

Dollying Moving the entire camera mount closer ( dollying In) or farther ( dollying out) from
the subject.

Double System A production method such as film in which the synchronous sound and picture are
recorded as two separate elements.

Dropout Loss of picture signal during tape playback, appearing as specks of snow on the
monitor. Usually caused by scratches or pieces of contaminant on the tape resulting in the oxide
flaking off and leaving sports were no signal remains.

Dub A copy( duplicate) of a tape. See also,” Master” and “ Window Dub.”

Dubbing this word has two meanings: 1. Erasing and audio track and recording new words,
music or sound effects in its place. 2. Making copies of a tape, i.e.. duplication
Duration The length of time (indicated in hours, minutes, seconds, and frames) that a section
of audio, video or effects materials lasts.

DVE Acronym for “ digital video effects.”(Trademark for N.E.C digital effects device.)
Allows picture manipulation effects, but without rotation or perspective which are possible with
ADO-type effects devices.

Edit Controller A device for remotely controlling VTRs and other devices for the purpose of editing
videotapes.

Edit Decision The exact point on both the source and master taped where an edit is to be made.

Edit Decision List(EDL) A log of all recorded segments, as they will be assembled during the
postproduction editing process.

Edit Source Any device that provides signals to be recorded in and edit session included are
VTRs, ATRs, camera, character generators, film chain, etc.

Editing The process of executing a series of edits to reach that final form of a production or program.
Not a physical assembly process, as in film editing, but a selective electronic transfer (dubbing) of
video and/or audio sequences onto a new master videotape to achieve a desired effect., mood, plot
development, program length, etc.

Editing, A/B Roll An editing process that involves preparing two source tapes with
alternate segments to be assembled, carefully spaced so that dissolves and other two tape effects
can be executed through the segment during the editing process.

Editing, Assemble An editing technique in which a composite continuation of audiovisual

synchronous signals is added to existing material in sequence, Creation of a television production by
adding various segments sequentially in the final program order.

Editing, Crash An assemble edit made by manually forcing the VTR into record. It is not necessarily
frame-locked and may leave a slight glitch or distortion at the edit point upon playback.

Editing , Cuts-only A basic mode of editing using only cuts (i,e no special effects of dissolves) to
progress from scene to scene.

Editing, Electronic Electronically controlled assembling of selections of different video and/ or

audio sequences to produce finished programming. Electronic editing is not a physical editing
assembly progress, as is the splicing of film . It is however, selective retransfer ( duping) of video and/
or audio onto a master tape. Electronic editing is a post production procedure.

Editing, Insert 1. An edit in which new video or video/ audio material is inserted into previously
recorded materials without disturbing the existing control track. 2. Electronically inserting a new
program segment into the middle of a previously recorded production

Editing, Interformat An editing process in which source tapes of one format (or a variety of
formats ) are edited directly to another format,

Editing , Nonlinear An editing technique in which different sequences of a program are edited
without regard to final order.
Editing , off- line 1.A rough cutting process using relatively inexpensive copies of original
material, for purposes of establishing sources, continuity and timing of edit decisions 2. A basic
electronic editing process were by original footage is edited onto an intermediate sub master tape.

Editing, online 1. A term usually used to mean electronic editing and completion using equipment
that produces the end results without intervening stages of either format of technology. 2. The
concluding electronic editing stage in which all editing takes place on the finished master or release
tape. In simple news operations and industrial programs, this may be the only editing step.

Editing, Pickup A type of unplanned edit used in studio productions to cover a production error by
going back and assemble editing at a point immediately prior to the mistake.

Editing, Preproduction Electronic editing process where individual program segments are edited in
advance for tape roll-ins or assemble edited into a finished production.

Editing , Real- time Assembling a multiple camera production by using a switcher or special
effects generator during the continuing action of an event or performance.

Editing , Rough A preliminary, rapid assembly of the different sequences of a program or

production in the order of their appearance. It provides an approximate idea of the final program,
but is neither an edit master nor a clean edit list.

Editing, Seamless An editing technique whereby audio and video segments are cut at slightly
different sports in order to avoid an abrupt change of sound and picture simultaneously; the result is
a smother transition.

Editing, Split An edit in which the audio and video edit points are selected independently from
each other. New audio can begin either before or after the new video materials is reco4rded.

Editing, Time-code Using time-code addressing and indexing during editing. This saves time and
permits many function, particularly searches for specific edit points, to be performed automatically.

Editing, Transfer The electronic re-recording (or dubbing of video and audio information )
from an original videotape to a second tape for assembly in program sequence.

Editor A person who edits

Effects bus The switcher bus that is used for special electronic effects such as inserts, keys, and
wipes.

EFP( electronic field production) The use of a single video camera to record any kind of
program in the field ( on location) for later editing in the postproduction process.

ENG Abbreviation for “ electronic news gathering” The business, techniques and technology of
news broadcasting using electronic cameras and videotape recorder/ play back equipment instead
of film equipment. The abbreviation “EFP” is often used interchangeably with ENG.

Equalizer An electric device used to increase or decrease the levels of different audio
frequencies.

Extrusion Process of taking a 2-D object and pulling it forward, and or backward the Z-plane
to create a 3-D object.

F
Fade 1. The gradual bringing in or taking out of an audio source. 2. The g4radual transition from
black to a picture ( fade-in) or from a picture to black (fadeout).

Fade Arm On the switcher, a small lever that controls the amount of video signal flowing to a
specified bus.

Feed A program signal, audio, and /or video brought into a mixer (audio console or switcher) from
an outside ( non studio) source.

Feedback 1. In audio, a high- pitched squeal that results from accidentally feeding a program
monitor into a live microphone, causing an instantaneous over amplification.

Fidelity The ability to reproduce a given tone, with all its overtones, accurately.

Field 1. One- half ( every other line) of a single TV frame. Two interlaced fields make one TV
picture frame. Each field in the NTSC color TV video system has 262 ½ lines of video information, and
a complete frame has 524 lines. 2. An area of space under the influence of something , e.g a
magnetic field. 3. Location (e.g. go into the field and video tape interviews with people.)

Field of view Size or scope of a shot, indication how much is encompassed

Film-To Tape Transfer The process of transferring optical picture images recorded on film to
electronic picture images recorded on videotape

Filter 1. An audio device that can be used to eliminate selected low frequency or high-frequency
overtones. 2. A glass or gelation element mounted in format of a lighting instrument that changes
light characteristics such as color temperature.

Fish pole A small, light-weight pole to which a microphone is attached, to be hand held by an
audio assistant outside of the picture frame.

Fixed-Focal-Length Lens A simple lens that has one specific focal length.

Flag A rectangular, cloth covered frame placed in front of a lighting instrument to produce a
précis shadow on one side of the light beam.

Flare(light) The unwanted internal reflection of extraneous light without a lens.

Flat A standard staging unit, constructed of a wooden frame covered with cloth or hardboard,
often used to represent walls of a room or the exterior of a building.

Floor Director This crew member is the director’s eyes and ears on the studio floor. The floor
director relays commands from the director to the talent and is responsible for chewing talent and
giving time cues throughout the production

Floor Plan A scaled plan of the studio floor indicating where all scenery and staging units are to
be placed.

Focal Length The distance from the optical center point of a lens, when it is set at infinity, to a
point where the image is in focus.

Fold- over A digital based electronic transition in which one picture is squeezed and apparently
flipped over (revealing a second picture) to simulate a turning page.
Font A complete alphabet ( including number and punctuation marks) in a specific type style.

Foot Candle(FTC) A unit of light measurement equivalent to the amount of liht falling upon a
surface one foot away from a standard candle.

Foundation Makeup The makeup bade upon which more detailed accent times are constructed.

Fractal Geometry Creation of 3-D Landscapes.

Frame 1. One complete television pictu4re, consisting of two fields, lasting one-thirtieth of a
second. 2. To compose a picture artistically within the frame of the television screen.

Freeze Frame To hold a single frame or picture for a period for a period of time, thus freezing the
action.

Frequency 1.The number of cycles per second of a given tone which determines the basic pitch
of that tone ( the greater the frequency, the higher the pitch).

Frequency Response The total of frequencies or pitches that a microphone, an ear, a loudspeaker,
or a transmitter is able to discriminate and/ or reproduce.

F-stop A notation that indicates the sixe of the lens aperture; the fighter the f-stop number, the
smaller the opening ; the lower the f-stop number, the larger the opening.

Gain The amplification of a signal so as to increase its output. In video , this typically refers to the
luminance level.

Gel(gelatin) A thin, translucent, colored material such as gelatin or plastic that can be mounted
in front of lighting instruments to produce specific color effects.

Generation The number of times a duplicate is removed from the original videotape. For
example, the tape recorded during actual shooting is “ first generation” tape. An edited duplicate
made from the original would be termed “ second generation. A copy of that tape would be” third
generation.” And so on. See also, “Dub” and “Master”

Generation Loss The original or master tape will always be the clearest copy . Additional
copies will suffer signal loss and result in loss of clarity, resolution , and image retention. Ist
generation is the master, 2nd generation is a copy of the master, 3rd generation, etc.. example, a
photocopy of an original document, another photocopy of the copy.

Glitch A brief picture breakup caused by momentary loss of a continues sync plus , usually as a
result of a faulty editing p4rocedure.

Go to Black Cutting to a black screen to end a sequence.

Gobo A scenic cutout that is positioned seve4ral feet in front of a camera to provide foreground
design, depth, and framing interest.

Graphics Two-dimensional visuals prepared for television presentation: charts, drawings,

photographs, maps, slides, etc.

Graphics/ Character Generator Operator Half artist, half computer operator , this crew
member is responsible for the preparation of titles and other graphic material
Grip A floor assistant or stagehand, especially one who is concerned with scenery and set
dressing.

Head The small electromagnet on both video recorders and audio recorders and audio recorders
that puts the electromagnetic information on the tape (records ) or erases the signal from the tape,
or reads ( play back ) the information that is on the tape.

Headroom Space between the top of a subject’s head and the upper edge of the camera frame.

Headset A piece of studio gear worn over the head, consisting of an earphone and a
mouthpiece which connects all production personnel on the intercom network.

Helical Scan A videotape recorder/play back technology in which the video signal information is
recorded diagonally on adjacent tracks. Sometimes called” slant track”

Helical VTR All cassette VTRs are helical.

Hertz(Hz) Basic unit of frequency measurement.

Hi-Band 8mm (Hi-B) An improvement of Sony’s video-8 format which uses metal particle or metal
evaporated tape and has a higher luminance bandwidth.

Hue The specific phase of a color demonstrating its duration towa4rd or away from another color,
e.g.. Orange-red to magenta-red

Impedance Resistance to the flow of an audio signal in a microphone cable.

Incident Light Light coming directly from the source of illumination.

In-point On the record VTR, the place where the material is to be recorded, On the
source VTR, The beginning of the scene to be recorded

Input Selector Switch The switch found on many audio control boards that will connect a specific
patch bay to a particular microphone position on the console.

ISO Reels Multiple reels of videotape recorded simultaneously on individual, “ Isolated” VTRs
from different cameras.

Isolated Camera A camera that is patched directly to its separate video recorder that can be
used eigher for instant reply or for postproduction editing.

Jump cut A take between two camera or a badly planned edit which results in connecting two
shots that have almost identical views of the same object; as a result, the object appears to jump
slightly for no apparent reason.

Key A generic term for any number of special visual effects whereby video signals from two or
more sources are electronically combined.

Key In To matte one picture into another ,e.g. title over a picture.
Key frames The starting and ending frames of a particular animated sequence.

Lead room (nose room, talk space) Additional framing space in a camera picture on the side
toward which a subject is looking or moving

Lens Cap Protective covering that can be placed on the front of a camera lens.

Level Sound volume or intercity from a specific source or talent.

Lexicon (See time compression and expansion).

Light, Broad A floodlight with a large rectangular, pen like reflector.

Light, Cucalorus (cookie, kook) 1. A special metal cutout pattern that can be inserted into an
ellipsoidal spotlight to achieve definite shadow effects. 2. A cardboard or wooden cutout paten that
is placed in front of a spotlight to produce a shadow effect on a scenic background.

Light, Ellipsoidal A specialized spotlight with a highly defined beam that can be
further shaped by means of metal shutters and the insertion of a cucalorus pattern.

Light, flood A lighting instrument that produces a highly diffuse, non-directional source of light.

Light, Fresnel A lightweight sport light lens developed by august in Jean Fresnel that uses a system
of concentric ring- shaped steps to achieve its focusing effect.

Light, Incandescent The conventional lamp, housed in a glass bulb, that produces light by the
glow of a heated filament.

Light, Scoop A rounded floodlight with a spherical diffusing reflector.

Light, Spotlight A lighting instrument that produces a highly directional, controlled socurce of light.

Light Meter A photoelectric device that measures the amount of light failing upon a specific area.

Light Plot A floor plan that indicates the lighting requirements: location, type, and function of
each instrument for every tagging area in the studio.

Lighting, Back A highly directional light coming from above and behind a subject, adding highlights,
shape, and separation from the background.

Lighting, Base The basic lighting needed for adequate illumination to achieve a technically
acceptable television picture.

Lighting, Cameo Lighting the foreground subject with carefully controlled directional
light. The background is kept dark.

Lighting, Fill An unfocused and diffused (no directional) light used to complement the key light,
coming from the side opposite the key light, filling in dark areas and softening shadows.

Lighting, Key the primary source of illumination falling upon a subject, highly directional,
producing a definite modeling or shaping effect with well-defined shadows.

Lighting , Kicker Additional light, usually a spotlight, coming from the side and slightyly to the
rear of the subject.
Lighting, Low-key Selective lighting, with an overall low level of intensity and a dark
background.

Lighting, Set(background light) General lighting of the set and background behind the talent.

Lighting, Silhouette A lighting effect where the foreground figures are dark and the background
is fully lit.

Lighting, Three Point The traditional arrangement of key fill, and backlights.

Lighting Grid A permanent arrangement of pipes suspended belwo the studio celling upon which
lighting instruments can be hung.

Limiter An electronic device used to cut off audio levels when the volume is too strong.

Line Monitor The master program monitor that displays the final program picture that is to be
recorded or transmitted

Linear Key A keying device that adds a given color to a key effect.

List cleaning The process of eliminating overlaps from an edit list, so that no out-point is recorded
after the start of the next successive edit, or otherwise eliminating extraneous events.

List Management Manipulation of an edit list by adding, deleting, moving, or re-numbering

edits to obtain the desired end result for final assembly.

Live-on-Tape A program that is recorded on videotape in its entirety, or in long complete

segments; the viewing audience watches the performance, unedited, as it actually took place.

Location On-location is place, not a studio, where filming of taping takes place.

Lock In To focus on and hold a particular object/composition .e.g--- “lock in camera number three on
the quarterback.”

Lock To synchronize. To close. To protect.

Log Sheet A list, usually used in conjunction with field production, of all the shots that were
taped including time in and time out, and the description of the shot.

Looping An audio technique where by a single loop of audiotape can be repeated endlessly
on either a reel-to-reel recorder or on an audio cart machine.

Loosen Up (loosen a shot) To decrease the size of an object in a picture, either by dolling back
or by zooming out.

Lower Third A person’s identifying information ( name and title ) superimposed or keyed on the
screen positioned in the lower third of the frame.

Luminance The light-level output of a video signal, commonly referred to as “brightness.”e.g—

the white portion of a monochrome signal.

M&E Tracks Abbreviation for music and effects studio tracks.

Macro lens Special wide-angle lens designed for close-ups of small objects at close distances.
Mage Track Term usually refers to the soundtrack and usually used only in reference to the
separate magnetic sound film used in double system recording and editing.

Master The original recording the tape that comes directly from the videotape recorder. A master is
first-generation

Master, Duplication The tape from which copies( dubs) are made by the duplication hose. Film-
to-tape transfer masters; or a special “ duplication master” can be ade for dubbing, in which case it
is second generation to either the film-to-tape transfer master or the edited master.

Master, Edited The first generation of the fully edited videotape, the final program. Includes all
video, all audio and all signals (bars, tone, slate, etc.). The edited master incorporates images that are
sub masters. These are images when dissolves and other effects have been incorporated.

Master, Film-to-Tape The tape that comes directly from the telecine, i.e.. the first videotape
recording from film. A film-to-tape master is first generation.

Master, Protection A duplicate of any of the aforementioned masters, made in case its
master is lost or damaged. Also called a “ safety copy,” See also “Db” and “ Generation.”

Master, Sub master A copy of all or part of the master or film-to-tape master, to be used as an
“edit element” in producing the edited master. For example, to create a dissolve, a sub master is
made of a portion of the master so that the transition can be made between two separate sources.
In this case, the sub master is a second-generation image. Or, when there are to be several edited
masters, each with identical video but different narration, the video only copies ( awaiting narra tion)
are sub masters. These are images when dissolves and other effects have been incorporated.

Master Control Room Primary engineering control center where all video and audio signals are
ultimately channeled; program input ( both studio and network feeds).camera controls video
recording and transmitter distribution usually are all handed for this location.

Match-frame Edit An invisible edit made by selecting an in-edit made by selecting an in-edit
point that exactly matches a enviously recorded frame. Usually used to extend the edit .

Matte 1. Without shine or gloss. Relatively unreflective of light. 2. Masking of a portion of a TV

picture and replacing it with other video information.

Microphone (mic, Mike) An audio transducer that converts sound pressure waves (sound
energy) into electrical signals.

Microphone, Book ( mike boom) Any device consisting of a movable base, an adjustable tend,
and a long arm for suspending a microphone above and in front of a performer.

Microphone, Cardioid ( unidirectional) A microphone pickup pattern in which sounds are received
best from one direction, in a heart shaped or cardioid pattern.

Microphone, Condenser A high- quality microphone whose transducer consists of a vibrating

condenser plate and a fixed back plate.

Microphone, Dynamic A rugged microphone whose transducer consists of a diaphragm connected

to a movable coll.

Microphone, Hanging A microphone suspended by its cord from alighting grid of catwalk.
Microphone, Lavaliere (chest mike, neck mike) A very small microphone that can be worn around
the neck on a cord or clipped onto a article of clothing.

Microphone, Omnidirectional (no directional) A micro phone pickup pattern in which all sounds
are received equally well from all directions.

Microphone, PZM(pressure zone microphone) A flat microphone that consists of thin pickup that ,
when mounted on a flat table or large sheet of Plexiglas, uses the surface it is mounted on to collect
the sound waves. This serves to eliminate phasing problems and balances the audio levels from a
fairly widespread area.

Microphone, Shotgum A highly directional microphone, used for picking up sounds from a distance.

Microphone, Wireless A microphone with a self –contained miniature FM Transmitter built in; the
microphone transmitter can send its signal to the control room, eliminating the need for mike cables.

Mini-doc A short documentary. Often included in a news cast, frequently presented in

serialized form.

Mix buses The switcher buses with fader arms that are used for on the air fading and mixing of
video sources such as supers and dissolves.

Mix See” Dissolve.”

Mix Track The final edited audio track, often consisting of numerous individual sound tracks
balanced and mixed together.

Mixer An electronic control unit for selecting and combining audio or video signal from more than
one source and forming a new program signal.

Mixing 1. The combining and balancing of two or more audio sources thought the audio console 2.
The combining of two or more video sources through the switcher.

Mire Effect Distracting visual vibration caused by the interaction of a narrow striped pattern and
the television seining lines.

Monitor 1. A n audio speaker used to check the actual sounds being mixed.2. A modulated to
an RF signal which is ordinarily used in studio and control room applications.

Mos ( Mit out Sound) A script direction. Also , a scene filmed with the sound to be dubbed in.

Multiple camera Production Conventional television production situation. Either in a studio or a

remote on- location where several cameras are used simultaneously to pick up the action or
performance; whether transmitted live or recorded. The picture from the various cameras are edited
instantaneously as the program progressed.

Neutral Density Filter A lens filter that cuts down the intensity of incoming light without altering
the color temperature.

Noise 1. Video noise is a term used to describe the electronic equivalent of film grain, when
additional picture signal strength (gain) is added to a video output to make up for lack of exposure. 2.
Specific audio interference ( unwanted sound or static) or video interference( electronic disturbance
or snow).
Nose Room The space between the subject’s nose and the side of the screen

NTSC National Television System Committee, an industry body that developed the basic technical
specification(525 lines, 30 frames per second, FM audio) and color standards still in use today in
North and South America and Japan.

Off- Camera Any sound or action that takes place out of the camera’s view.

Off-Mike The audio quality resulting from a sound source that is a great distance from the
microphone or out of the pickup pattern of a unidirectional mike.

Off-set Graphics Graphics, such as title cards and sides. That are never seen in or on the set;
the audience has no idea where they are originating.

On-location Production Remote production.

On-set Graphics Large graphics and display devices designed to be intergrated into
the set.

Outpoint the precise spot on the source tape and/or edit tape where an edit is to end.

Over scan The process of reproducing a TV picture that is slightly larger than a normal
television’s picture for the purpose of offsetting differences in receiver set-up.

Pad 1. Extra video material that is recorded before and after a program segment which facilitates
editing. 2. Extra script material that may be used if the program begins to run short. 3. An audio
component that can reduce the strength of a preamplifier feed so that it does no exceed the volume
limits of the control channel.

Pal (Phase alternate line) The 625- line, 50- field system used in the UK, western Europe,
Scandinavia, Australia, south Africa and other regions. A complete sequence consists of eight fields,
as opposed to four fields in NTSC.

Pan Movement of the camera head in a left or right direction.

Pan Card A long horizontal graphic deigned to be panned on the air.

Panning Turning the camera horizontally by trotting the camera mounting head.

Panning Handle (panhandle) The handle extending toward the rear of the camera with which the
camera operator controls movement of the camera. The zoom and focus controls are usually
attached to the ends of the pan handles.

PCM( pules code modulation) An audio signal that is recorded on video tape diagonally in its own
area, at the end of a video slant track, so that it can be separated from video for editing.

Pedestal 1. Heavy camera mount that facilitates easy raising or lowering of the camera head,
usually with a counterweight system of with compressed air. 2. To move the camera dead up or
down with the pedestal mount.
Perspective 1. In audio, the quality of matching visual and sound distance. 2. In scenery, the
illusion of distance caused by several lines converging at one point on the horizon. 3. A point of view
presented by a camera angle or presentation.

Perspective, Objective Use of a camera as an observer of eavesdropper; no one addresses the

camera directly.

Perspective, Reportorial Use of a camera with the talent talking directly to the audience
through the camera.

Perspective, Subjective Use of a camera as an actual participant or actor in dramatic sequence,

viewing the scene from the standpoint of a person who is involved.

Phase Color . Hue. In—phase color signals are correct in hue; out-of phase signals are not. Because
they exhibit hue/ phase shift.

Photon The basic elemental unit of light/ electromagnetic energy; it has no mass or charge
but demonstrates momentum and displays characteristics of both particles and waves.

Picture continuity The relationship of visual images from one shot to the next. Involving flow of
action, screen direction, composition, cutting ratio., type of transitions ,motivation, and similar
considerations.

Pixel the computer-derived term for “ picture element” that designates the smallest addressable
triad of phosphor dots on a picture tube that can be manipulated and illuminated for graphics
display.

Play back A process where the recorded material on a tape is played back to re- create the
original video and/ or audio signals.

Pop filter A protective shield attached to a microphone that filters out air blasts from plosive
consonants such as p’s and t’s

Position Jump A cut between two cameras or a poorly planned edi5t in which a pe3rson or object
appears to change positions or jump from one side of the screen to another.

Post Production All activates between the completion of the principal photography and the
final approval of the production.

Postproduction Editing Electronic editing process that takes place after the individual program
segment have been produced and recorded.

Potentiometer(pot) A volume control device that is manipulated by either a rotating knob or a

sliding fader.

Preamplifier An electronic device that can magnify the low signal output of microphones and
other transducers before the signal is sent to a mixing board or to other amplifiers.

Pre-edit Session A planning meeting during which the director, editor. (and possibly others)
decide how a program will be edited.

Preproduction Planning The preparation and planning which takes place before the cameras
are powered on and the studio is set.
Pre-roll The period of time in the editing process when both the source deck and the edit
deck back up ( usually about five seconds) and then move forward in sync to get up to speed. NOTE –
when shooting to edit for field shoots or location shoot. The shot should be held to compensate for
pre-roll. Five seconds prefill and five seconds post-roll.

Preview A rehearsal of an edit. Observing the results of a selected sequence of events

without actually recording the signals on the record VTR.

Preview, Black-Video- Black(BVB) allows observation of the source VTR so that the “fill”
material can be viewed separately. The video monitor switches form black to source video monitor
video and back to black during the preview.

Preview, Video – Black-Video(VBV) Allows observation of the record VTR so that” information to
remain unrecorded” may be viewed separately. The video monitor switches from record VTR, to help
determine if material selected to remain on the tape is correct.

Preview Bus The switcher bus connected to the preview monitor that is used for setting up any
special effects or other picture before putting it on the air.

Preview monitor A large monitor that can be used to look at any camera picture or video
effect before putting it on the program line.

Producer The crew member who oversees the entire production from conception and
preproduction through taping, editing, and distribution. The producer’s responsibilities include, but
are not limited to, coordinating all the elements of production. Obtaining a crew, signing up for
studio time, etc.. sometimes the producer is the writer and director as well.

Production Assistant A crew member who may be assigned to either the director or the producer
and is in evolved with production logs, script details, personnel problems, talent coordination,
logistical arrangements .etc.

Program Bus The switcher bank that controls the picture being sent out on the air.

Program Time Time remaining in the overall program until the program fades to black; this
determines the time remaining signals that must be given ot toe director.

Props (properties) All items to actually be used in the production. Includes furniture, curtains,
stage items, plants, backdrops , etc.

Pull Focus( rack focuses) To change the focus of a camera from one extreme to another.
Selective focus is used to shift attention from one object to another when one is positioned in the
foreground and the other in the back ground or vice versa.

Rat Trashing (Mirror Image) Reflection of other objects where reflection is bounced and traced
before hitting our eye ( reflect one object in another)

Ready The standard command or preparation preceding a camera take or cut.

Receiver The device that receive the radio broadcast signal (radio set) or television signal (TV
set) and demodulates the carrier wave to reproduce the original studio electrical signals.

Recording A process in which the audio and / or video electronic signal is used to arrange iron-
oxide particles on the magnetic recording tape to store a record of the electronic signal.
Reel Number A number assigned to each reel or cassette on the edit list for the final assembly any/
or for later program revisions,

Reference White Any large piece of white material used in the white balancing process, to
enable the automatic circuitry of the camera to compensate for the operating color temperature.

Reflected Light Light bounced back from the surface of an object.

Reflections Mapping A faster solution than Ray Tracing where the “ reflected” image is projected
form an invisible dome surrounding objects.

Reflector A flat piece of r4eflective material which can be either handhed or tripod mounted
to reflect sunlight on s subject.

Refraction “Bending” light through transparent object.

Registration Exact alignment of all three color images on the screen of a color television receive
or the three tubes of a color camera.

Remote Any broadcast or shoot occurring outside the studio.

Remote Production (on location production) A television production, usually directed from a
portable control room, that takes place outside of the regular studio.

Rendering A series of design and laydown processes used in computer animation. In the design
phase, wireframe models are filled in by assigning textures , colors and light sources to surfaces. In
laydown , Key frames are identified as the computer plots movement of the images. The laydown
occurs when the computer photographs each frame of the motion onto the videotape.

Resolution Sharpness and detail of a television picture.

Reverberation(reverb) The process of adding an electronic echo to music or spoken sound to

produce a deliberate artificial resonation.

RF(radio frequency) Modulation of a specific radio frequency carrier wave with a video and audio
signal; necessary for broadcasting and most closed- circuit distribution.

RGE The initials standing for red, green and blue: the primary color channels of video images.

Rheostat A device that can control the amount of current or signal flowing to a specific control
point or circuit. This allows a gradual increase or decrease in the amount of the flow, such as the pot
on the audio console or the fade arm on the switcher bus,

Riding Gain( riding levels) Continually watching the VU meter and adjusting audio faders
accordingly to maintain proper volume levels through out the program.

Ripple Modification of the edit decision list to compensate for edits which have been added,
deleted or changed. It consists of adjusting all subsequent in/out edit points by a calculated time
throughout the potion of the list that follow a change.

Roll Cue The exact words or actions that a talent will use at the precise point when a filim or
videotape insert is to be rolled a few seconds before it is actually put on the air.

Roll Vertical movement of electronic text up a screen.

Rule of Thirds Principle of composition that divides the TV screen into thirds, horizontally and
vertically, and places objects of interest at the points where the lines intersect.

Rundown Sheet (show for mat) Abbreviated scripting format the simply lists the various
program segments in sequence.

Running Time The length of time a performance or a taping takes from beginning to end.

Run-through Usually, the first full rehearsal.

Safe-title Area About 80 percent of the TV screen measured from the center. Within this area, vital
picture information like titles can usually be seen (even on TV sets that over scan).

Saturation (Chroma) The strength or intensity of a color, how far removed it is from a neutral or
gray shade.

Saturation The degree to which a color is mixed with white. High saturation means little or no
white, as in a dark color.

Scale The fixed union wage. Union musicians or performers may work for scale or above scale,
depending upon their asking price and your negotiations.

Scan line , Scanning Line One single horizontal line of a television picture.

Scratch Track An audio track used for synchronizing video animation of effects in an off-line
situation of if the final audio track is to be edited after the visual elements have been edited.

Scrim A translucent filter often made of fiberglass or fine screening used in front of either a
spotlight of floodlight to soften and diffuses the light quality.

Scrolling Moving all text, upward or downward, through the frame. It also means
incrementing of decrementing of the edit list on the screen.

Search Dial the editing control that enables the operator to move the source deck and edit deck
(record machine ) forward of backward at varying speeds to locate the precise editing frame for
editing precision.

Search To program a tape time location (by means of control track or SMPTE/EBU time code) and
have the VTR go to that specific point on the tape.

Segment timing sheet A list of all the segments of a production with space for unit times and
cumulative times (ideal and actual) for each segment.

Segue An audio transition in which one sound is completely faded out and then a second source is
immediately faded in (similar to a video cross-fade)

Selective Focus The technique of using a shallow depth of field to deliberately keep either
foreground or background objects out of focus in order to concentrate attention on a particular
object that is in focus

Semi scripted outline A summarization of program’s content with opening and closing
material (and other crucial elements such as roll-in cues) written out in full while the remaining
content is presented in outline form.
Set Designer The crew member responsible for designing and, usually supervising the
construction of the set for a production. The set designer works closely with the producer during the
preproduction planning stages to decide what kind of set is best suited for the program.

Set Dressings (stage props) Major items of furniture (desks, tables), large props (bicycles, tree
stumps), and minor items ( ashtrays, books)used to dress up a set.

Set Pieces Three-dimensional items, usually functional, that are integrated into the set
platforms, stairways, pillars, arches, lampposts, etc.

Setting The major pieces that comprise the background and environment of a scene’s set units,
hanging units, and set pieces.

SFX Abbreviation for sound effects.

Shading (video engineering) Operating the video controls of a CCU (Camera Control Unit) in order
to maintain the best engineering quality control of the picture.

Shaping The alteration of an audio signal by controlling volume, filtering out certain
frequencies, emphasizing upper or lower pitches, creating an echo effect, etc.

Shoot 1.To record program information of either film or videotape. 2. The entire enterprise of a
remote, on location television or film recording session.

Shoot Sheet A small sheet or card, attached to the rear of the camera, listing a summary of all
shots the camera operator is to get during the production.

Shooting Schedule A list of everything to be shot each day of a field production; usually derived
from the breakdown sheet, it lists what is and who are needed for each scene.

Shooting Script The final script. Usually included dialogue, camera instructions, and technical
directions.

Shot, Close-up A shot in which the subject or any part of it is framed tightly and at a close
distance.

Shot, Collective A wide shot showing the collective effort of relationship of various elements
( also know as an establishing shot).

Shot, Cutaway A reaction shot or informational shot that can be inserted-edited into a
program to cover a jump cut, to explain a point being made, or simply to provide visual interest.

Shot, Knee A shot in which the subject is seen from the knees up.

Shot, Long(LS) A shot in which the subject is seen as being relatively far away. With people, it is at
least head to toe.

Shot, Medium(MS) View of a subject from a comfortable medium distance, between a long shot
and a close-up.

Shot, Over-the-Shoulder(O/S) Camera shot looking at one person framed by the back of the head
and shoulder of another person in the foreground.

Shot, Particularized A close shot showing some important aspect of some specific object.
Shot, Stock Any film clip that gives your audience immediate identification of a locale. Example,
The white House for Washington, DC, can be purchased from stock film companies.

Shot, Two-shot Camera shot that includes two people or one person and another prominent object.

Short lens (wide-angle lens) A short length lens with a wide viewing angle; includes a broad view
of the scene but tends to exaggerate distance.

Signal-to-Noise The ratio of extraneous picture information (noise) to good video picture
information signal inherent in video equipment or in a piece of videotape stock. S/N ratio, the less
grain (noise) and therefore the better picture.

Single- Camera Production Television production situation in which a single electronic camera is
used to record all of the action-similar to the traditional film- camera technique; one camera is
repositioned for each shot, and the individual shots are them edited together in the postproduction
editing process.

Skew A bending at the top of the TV picture due to improper tautness/ tension.

Slate To send the output of the camera being used in a multicamera production to its own
separate videotape recorder.

Sound Bite A short” newsworthy” quotation from a person, usually someone involved in a news
story or feature.

Source Deck( Playback deck) In electronic editing , the VTR that contains the original raw footage
that is to be edited.

Special Effects Generator (SEG) Part of a sophisticated switcher that can produce a variety of special
electronic effects.

Speed Up A signal to the talent to read factor or get through the script outline faster.

Split Screen A special effect with the screen split into two or more sections, with a picture from a
different camera filling each portion of the scree.

Spread To open or enlarge the beam of a spotlight by moving the bulb-reflector unit closer to the
lens.

Stage Manager (floor manager, floor director) The director’s key assistant in charge of all
production concerns on the studio floor.

Staging Effects Special optical and mechanical studio effects, such as smoke, wind, fog, rain fire, etc.

Stereophonic Sound Audio that is recorded, transmitted, and played back through two separate
(left and right) channels to simulate binaural sound.

Still Frame A single frame from the video tape held as a “ still’ and often used as background for
titles, credits or other graphic material.

Stills Photographs. Can be inserted, by film in close-up, in and diction sequence.

Storyboard A series of simple drawings or rough sketches that lay out visually the content of a
commercial or program, showing how every scene should be staged and what each shot will look
like.
Stretch A signal to the talent to slow down, read slower, and stretch out the remaining material.

Striking To remove specific set pieces or props; taking down and removing everything on the studio
follow at the end of a production.

Studio The primary room devoted to television production, containing all of the equipment and
material for sets, lighting, camera , and microphones.

Stylus An electronic “ pen” used with a graphic tablet.

Super (superimposition) A picture resulting from the simultaneous display of two complete
images on the scree.

S-VHS( Super (VHS) A high resolution videocassette format that is compatible with the standard
VHS system.

Sweetening The process of augmenting an audio track during postproduction editing by adding
prerecorded laughter and other audience reactions.

Switcher 1. A video mixing panel, consisting of selection buttons and control levers ( fader
arms), that permits. The selection and combining of incoming video signals to from the final program
picture.2. the crew member who operates the video switcher, usually the technical director.

Sync Abbreviation for “ synchronous” working together. At the same time .At the co4rrect as well
as well as the same time. At the same wave frequency.

Sync Generator The part of the video system that produces a synchronizing signal (sync
pulse), based on the basic 60- Cycle alternating current (in the U.S. and other countries using the
NTSC color system), which serves as a timing pulse to coordinate the video elements of all
components in the video system (cameras, switcher, and recorders etc.)

Sync Pulse A complex signal (added to the picture information ) consisting of electronic control
information that keeps all video components synchronized.

Sync Roll Operation of two or more source VTRs in sync, so that live switching can be
performed between them and immediately recorded.

Tag To add on, almost as an afterthought, An easily changed message, given as a super, a slide or
a “ live taet” e.g.. an announcer’s voice, or character generation at the end.

Take 1. An instantaneous change from on e video source to another (cut).2. The final production
of a program as recorded for distributed live.

Talent The performer for the production (any person who appears live in front of the camera),
talent can be either on camera or used to create audio voice –overs.

Tally Lights Small red indicator lights on each camera is on the air.

Technical Director(T.D) This crew member is responsible for video transitions of the production.
Following the director’s commands, the T.D Selects and mixes the video sources (cameras, tape roll-
ins, etc..) on the switcher.

Techniques Those learned and acquired skills used in operating various pieces of equipment and
in performing specific crew assignments.
Telecine The term often used to describe the room where the film transfer equipment is
located within the videotape facility or station. Also used as a synonym for the transfer equipment
itself . Telecine is a combination of the words’” television” and “cinema”

Telephoto Lens A lens with a very long focal length, used for close-ups of objects from great
distances.

Test Pattern A specially designed graphic or electronically generated signal used to help line up
and adjust equipment before beginning production, or to recheck equipment during a production, or
to recheck equipment during a production, or to recheck equipment during a production.

Test Tape Videotape recorded with video/ audio that has precisely predetermined
characteristics, Usually, these characteristics are standard throughout the industry or , at least,
standard for that type of equipment. Thus, these characteristics can be used as an aid for
establishing standard performance.

Texture Mapping Wrapping an image texture around corns or curved surfaces.

Tilt Movement of the camera head in which it is pointed either up or down using the pan
handles.

Tilting Pivoting the camera vertically by pointing the camera – mounting head up and down.

Time code An indexing address code using electronically generated numbers indexed as hours,
minutes, seconds and “ drop frame time code”

Time Code, Drop Frame SMPTE standard time code which drops frame numbers “OO
and”01” each minute, to compensate for NTSC variance from real- clock time.

Time Code, SMPTE A frame-location” address system” developed by the society of Motion
Picture and Television Engineers that can label and find any section of a videotape by hour, minute,
second, and frame.

Time Code, Vertical Interval Time code that is inserted in the vertical blanking interval. Also
known as (VITC) time code.

Time Code reader(TRC) A device for reading the time code from an audio or time code track in a
VTR, an translating the code into signals which can be used by and edit controller or read by the
operator on a status display screen.

Time Compression and Ex-pension Alteration of the amount of time in which an audio/ video
scene takes place, without noticeable change in audio pitch or visual action. E.g.. to compress a 32
second commercial into 30 seconds.

Time- base corrector( TBC) The electronic device that takes the video feed from the video
recorder, encodes that signal into a digital form, and then reconstructs and enhanced control track
and video signal for distribution and playback.

Time-Base Error An error in the playback video form a VTR that results in slight timing
variations and appears as visual” jitter” in the signal.

Title card An audio signal used to calibrate various audio facilities at a consistent 100 percent
level.
Tone 1. Apure color hue with white or black added 2. A sound consisting of a particular quality,
e.g. a 2,000 –cycle tone.

Tracking The VTR control that adjust the idea head to put it in the optimum position when a
tape is played back.

Transducer Any device (Such as a microphone or camera) that receives energy in one form
(sound waves or light energy) and converts it into another form of energy (electrical signals).

Trim 1. To adjust a lighting instrument by aiming the housing and focusing the beam.2. That part
of the editing process where by small amounts of program information at the head and/ or tail of a
video segment are added or deleted as the final editing decisions are perfected.

Tripod Three legged camera mount, usually with casters to facilitate camera movement.

Trucking Moving the entire camera mount laterally to the left or right.

Ultrasonic Cleaning A method of using an ultrasonic fluid bath to remove dirt from film before a
film to tape transfer.

U-maticThe standard3/4- inch videocassette format.

Under scan To reduce raster size, so that all edges of the video image appear on the CRT.

Upcut During either pro diction or editing, the loss of a small amount of audio and /or video
material at the beginning of a segment usually occurring at the point of transition between program
elements form two different sources.

Vector scope A specialized electronic monitor that graphically displays the saturation levels for
each of the three primary colors and complementary colors.

Vertical Blanking Interval Period during which the TV picture goes blank as the electron beam
returns from scanning one field of video to begin scanning one field of video to begin scanning the
next field of video.

VHS(Video Home System) A consumer quality ½” videocassette system (introduced by JVC).

Video feedback Process of feeding a camera’s signal into a floor monitor and then using the same
camera to shoot the face of the monitor.

Video Tape Recorder(VTR) An electromechanical device for recording and reproducing

composite electrical signals containing both video and audio information. Often used to refer to both
reel-to reel and cassette machines. See also, “ Videocassette Recorder(VCR)”

Video The visual portion of a television picture.

Video-8 A consumer – grade video format developed by Sony that used tape eight

Videocassette Recorder(VCR) A video tape recorder which uses 3/3”,1/2” or 8mm wide tape in
cassette or cartridge form, as opposed to tape in open reel form. Every VCR is a VTR but a BTR is not
necessarily a BCR>See also “videotape recorder(VTR).
Videodis Any of the various audiovisual playback only systems being developed by several
companies to compete against videotape in the marketplace. The term” video “ is based on their
obvious visual reproduction purpose. And the term “disc” refers to the round, thin shape of the
playback medium.

Videotape A plastic tape, coated with iron oxide that can magnetically record various audio,
video, and control signals on videotape.

Viewfinder The small screen on the top back of the camera head which allows the operator to
see what he is shooting.

Voice-over(V.O)A script instruction indicating that the voice of an off- camera (unseen) narrator is to
be heard over a specific picture segment.

Volt A unit measure of the force of electricity.

VTR Operator This crew member operates all VTR machines during the production . this includes
both the recording VTRs as well as roll in/ playback VTRs used.

VU Meter (Volume unit meter) A display meter that shows the relative volume of an audio signal.

Walk-through Rehearsal An abbreviated rehearsal, conducted form the studio floor to

acquaint the talent and/or a production crew with the major outline of the production

Watt A unit of measurement of the power of electricity.

Waveform Monitor A type of oscilloscope that displays the brightness of all picture elements on
a video screen and, like a VU meter, allows the operator to keep the elements with the highest
intensity from exceeding the capabilities of the equipment.

Weave Movement from side to side. Interlacing.

White balance An adjustment p4rocess through which light reflected form a white card in given
lighting situation is used as a reference point, in this mode, the camera automatically balances the
red and blue intensities with the available light.

Wild track A non-synchronous audio recording made on a remote or location prof diction to
record actual background sounds , which can then be mixed with other audio during postproduction
editing.

Window Bubs Duplicates of master tapes with time code usually displayed in a window in the
picture. Used for offline scene logging without a time code reader.

Wipe A special effect in which one video signal replaces a previous signal on the television screen
in some predetermined pattern, as when one picture comes onscreen from the left and seems to
push the previous picture off-screen to the right,

Wok print An intermediate step in on-line editing where an interim copy of the assembled
program is edited together for previewing purposes.

Wrap-up (Windup) A cue to talent that there are about fifteen seconds remaining in this
program segment of in the total program.

Z
Zero Level Black A video level that allows a keyed in a switcher to use images that contain T.V
black (7.5 lre), also known as super black (0.0 lre).

Zoom the internal mechanism which allows the operator to verify the shot between very tight
(zoom in ) to very wide( zoom out) reaming.

Zoom In Change a zoom lens to a narrow angle (long focal length) position.

Zoom lens A variable focal length lens, which through its optical system, can be smoothly
changed from one focal length to another.

Zoom Out (zoom back) to change a zoom lens to a wide-angle (short focal –length) position.