A teleprompter, sometimes an autocue, is a special machine that shows actors and news reporters their words. Think of it like a big computer screen that shows words to people on TV so they know what to say next.
There are three main kinds of teleprompters:
- Standard Teleprompter: This is the most common one. It sits right in front of the camera. When actors or reporters look into the camera, they see words on the screen. The person in charge of the teleprompter called the operator, can change the size of the words so they are easy to read.
- Presidential Teleprompter: Words are shown on these clear screens. The speaker can easily read by looking left or right. It’s like having a secret helper for your speech!
- Interview Teleprompter: Some people get nervous when being interviewed on TV. This teleprompter helps with that. It shows the face of the person asking questions right in front of the camera. This way, the person being interviewed can look at the camera and feel like they are talking to a real person.
Now, if you’re thinking of becoming a teleprompter operator, especially for the first two types, here’s what you need to do:
Step 1: Get Good with Computers
A great teleprompter operator knows how to type quickly and can bring documents from the internet or other places onto the teleprompter. It’s also super important to read the words and ensure everything is correct.
Step 2: Learn TV Talk
TV has its language. If you want to work there, you need to understand what everyone is saying. This means learning the names of equipment and the special words they use on set.
Step 3: Visit a TV Station
Try to take a tour of a TV station near you. Ask a lot of questions. It’s good to know what everyone does so you can work well with them.
Step 4: Practice
If you can, practice with real teleprompter software. See how it feels to move words on the screen. Remember, your job is to help actors and reporters read easily.
Step 5: Make Friends
Whenever you meet someone who works in TV, ask for their business card. It’s essential to know people in the industry.
Step 6: Say Thank You
If someone helps you or shows you around, always thank them. Later, you can email them to remind them of who you are. If there’s a job opening, they might think of you!
Takeaway
In conclusion, being a teleprompter operator is a fun job. It’s a chance to be close to the excitement of TV shows and events. Plus, if you’re someone who likes helping others, it’s a perfect way to make sure everyone on camera looks good and knows what to say. If you work hard and follow these steps, you could be the next best Teleprompter operator in NYC!
