Have you ever wanted to create something that stands out, is fun, maybe even touching and also makes sense? Then try creating a television series.
Steps
Step 1. Create an idea
If you want to create a TV series, you need an idea. Something to base your show on. Casualty relies on an ED Department while Eastenders relies on the inhabitants of a square.
Step 2. Create a script
The script is what is followed by the crew to know what the actors have to say or do and the plot of the whole episode. Before writing a script you should make notes about the characters, the plot and the ideas - this should be the method to follow when writing. You can't do a show without a script and without a method.
Step 3. Start thinking about production
If you want to be the producer of your show yourself then you will need actors, film, sound and directors. If you want your show to be produced by a company then you need to direct the script to them along with a page or two note explaining exactly what the show is about. You will have a better chance by sending the script to a company that already produces TV series similar to yours. Otherwise, you can just send it to everyone!
Step 4. If accepted, the company will usually offer you some money
Get a manager, he will help you decide the price of the idea you want to sell and understand if the company is being honest.
Step 5. Create a pilot episode
The pilot episode is the first episode of the series. The events that happen in the pilot episode should be the ones that define what your show is about and the concept behind it. Normally, after the pilot episode, public opinion is probed. If successful, more episodes will be commissioned. Otherwise it means your show is over.
Step 6. SPIN
Once you have everything you need, including audience approval, you can start filming your show. You can shoot it in a closed studio or invite the audience (very common practice in sitcoms).
Step 7. Advertise
Nobody will watch your TV series if they don't know it!
Advice
- Watch other TV series before creating your own. Investigate the best channel to send your show to and what the audience likes.
- Don't make something too similar to other shows or it will likely be rejected.
- Take a writing class or show the script to your friends before sending it. Ask what they think and if they like the idea.
- Base your show on real life. Most TV series are based on the experiences or real life of their writers.
Warnings
- Give your show an original name.
- Don't create a story that is too similar to another. Make the necessary changes.
- Do not include racist or sexist content in the script or it will not be accepted. The only way to incorporate prejudice concepts into the show is to put them in the mouth of an unsavory character. For example, if the good protagonist of the show is part of a minority and is beaten for it then the audience will feel sorry for the good character and will hate the bad character.
