What does it take to be a director at WGBY? Production Department veteran Marc Rhinehart shares his point of view as November’s featured staff member.
BTS: What does a director do?
Marc: A director is in charge of a production once it begins to be taped or broadcast live. I make sure the cameras are in the right position, that the correct graphics are ready, that the show is running on time, and is being recorded correctly. In addition, I work with the on-air talent to keep everything going smoothly, which means thinking ahead and anticipating what will happen next. Most shows we do are scripted and rehearsed ahead of time, so most things go well. But when things do not go well, for me, that’s when the fun begins.
In sub control, Marc takes charge of a production’s ultimate look and feel.
BTS: What in your background led you to WGBY?
Marc: I worked in commercial television at WWLP for seven years then moved on to freelance work after that for a few years. I was working as a sports producer at a local cable company when I heard about the job at WGBY.
BTS: How long have you been on staff, and have you always worked as a director?
Marc: I’ve been on staff here for 27 years! I started off as a lighting director/videographer and was later promoted to a director position. I have enjoyed it ever since.
BTS: What sort of work do you most enjoy producing here?
All of the work that I do at WGBY is work I enjoy. The productions I like best though are live shows like the Holyoke St. Patrick’s Parade and Together in Song Showcase. The many different types of productions we host in our studio with outside clients add to the variety of my work, as do the in-house productions. I find everything we do enjoyable because it’s unique for a station of our size.
BTS: What’s the CP story or doc you’re most proud of?
Marc: The story that stands out the most was the interview we did with astronaut Cady Coleman. She was inside the space station – in space! Now how cool is that?!
BTS: How has evolution in technology changed the way you do your job?
The evolution in technology has changed my job somewhat. For example, a picture is better looking, there’s better audio and editing equipment to use to send messages to the audience. But you still need the old fashioned basic stuff like great camera shots, effective lighting and audio, strong talent and a desire to create the best work. So no matter how new the technology is, if you don’t have the basics, then it is just new equipment.
BTS: What’s on your professional bucket list?
Marc: I’d love to work on a travel show like Rick Steves’ Europe!
