Guide to Incorporating Hollywood-Style Dramatics in Local Television News Production
In the world of broadcasting, the bar for visual storytelling is constantly being raised. One company leading this charge is MRMC, or Mark Roberts Motion Control, a pioneer in robotics technology. MRMC's expertise in robotics has found a new home in local news broadcasts, enabling cinematic camera movements that were once the domain of high-budget productions[1][3].
By integrating MRMC technology into a Media Object Server (MOS)-based news automation rundown, the robotic arm can be controlled as part of the news automation system. This integration allows for seamless workflows and further scalability[3].
One large-market East Coast station has already embraced this technology, using an MRMC StudioBot XL robotic arm to replace traditional Steadicam setups. The arm's movements can be pre-programmed and initiated by an operator, freeing up time for other tasks and boosting operational efficiency[3].
The hardware required for creating cinematic camera movement on a news set includes one or more multi-axis robotic arms, which can be mounted to the floor, ceiling, or a track system, and a robotically controlled pedestal (for the MRMC StudioBot). The StudioBot XL is a 9-axis robotic arm with a 5'8" reach that can support 44 pounds, while the StudioBot LT is a 6-axis robotic arm with a 4'2" reach that can support 22 pounds[2].
The benefits of incorporating MRMC robotic solutions into newscasts are numerous. Enhanced viewer engagement is one key advantage, with dynamic, cinematic shots capturing viewers’ attention better than static or typical robotic pedestal footage[3]. Stations have reported up to 40-50% more editing cuts that sustain interest[3].
Operational cost-effectiveness is another significant benefit. Automating camera moves reduces reliance on specialized Steadicam operators, lowering personnel costs while ensuring consistent, repeatable camera work[1][3].
The technology developed by MRMC offers creative freedom and scalability, enabling intricate movements previously reserved for high-budget productions, making local broadcasts visually competitive with national and streaming content[1].
Moreover, these systems can be linked to newsroom automation and control platforms, enhancing efficiency and flexibility in day-to-day production[3].
Compared to older robotic systems (pedestals, jibs), multi-axis arms like MRMC StudioBot provide greater articulation and freedom of movement that closely mimic the fluid, immersive experience of cinema, transforming local news studio production values without a massive increase in budget[1][3].
In summary, deploying multi-axis robotic arms for camera work in local news broadcasts delivers cinematic camera movements, operational efficiencies, and improved viewer engagement in a cost-effective manner, helping stations better compete with modern visual standards without drastically escalating costs[1][3].
The latest robotics technology, such as the MRMC StudioBot multi-axis robotic arm, allows smooth camera movement behind and around anchors, reporters, and AR graphics. Software essential to creating cinematic camera moves in the confines of a TV studio includes AI-powered talent tracking, collision-avoidance LiDAR scanning, and MOS-compliant production automation software. If multiple systems are needed, software to control multiple cameras and multiple robotic systems will also be necessary.
It's worth noting that Nikon acquired MRMC in 2017, further solidifying the company's position in the industry. MRMC has also received multiple awards, including an Academy Award for Technical Engineering and the Queen's and King's Award for Enterprise: International Trade.
Camera robotics are increasingly being used in local newscasts to improve workflows, save on expenses, and ensure consistency. As technology continues to advance, we can expect to see more innovative solutions from MRMC and other companies, revolutionizing the way local news is produced and consumed.
[1] Source: https://www.mrmc.co.uk/case-studies/ [2] Source: https://www.mrmc.co.uk/products/ [3] Source: https://www.tvtechnology.com/news/mrmc-studiobot-xl-multi-axis-robot-arm-debuts-at-nab-show/125872 [3] Source: https://www.tvtechnology.com/news/mrmc-studiobot-xl-multi-axis-robot-arm-debuts-at-nab-show/125872
- The world of broadcasting is witnessing a higher standard for visual storytelling, with companies like MRMC contributing significantly.
- MRMC, a technology pioneer in robotics, is making its mark in local news broadcasts by offering cinematic camera movements earlier exclusive to high-budget productions.
- By integrating MRMC technology with a Media Object Server (MOS)-based news automation system, robotics can become part of the news production workflows, offering scalability.
- An East Coast station has opted for the MRMC StudioBot XL robotic arm to replace traditional Steadicam setups, providing the advantage of pre-programmed movements and operational efficiency.
- The multi-axis robotic arms used in newscasts offer greater articulation and freedom of movement, closely mimicking the fluid, immersive experience of cinema, yet without an unwarranted increase in budget.
- Using the latest robotics technology like the MRMC StudioBot multi-axis arm can lead to increased viewer engagement due to cinematic shots, as well as operational cost-effectiveness by reducing the need for specialized operators.
- As technology evolves, we can anticipate more creative innovations from companies like MRMC, revolutionizing the local news production and consumption landscape.
