What happens at a TV ad shoot? A guide for clients
If you’ve never been on a film set, the shoot day can be a bit of a mystery. Here’s what to expect, what you’ll be asked, and how to get the most from it.
Mark Bryant
Mark has spent more than 20 years producing TV commercials and video campaigns for organisations across the UK. His team has produced hundreds of productions for clients ranging from national brands and public sector organisations to colleges, universities and growing businesses, and won Best Commercial at the Royal Television Society Awards. Through TVads.co.uk, Mark writes about TV advertising, production, Clearcast, media buying, streaming advertising and the practical process of getting an advert from idea to broadcast.
How to choose a TV ad production company
There’s a difference between a company that makes videos and one that makes TV adverts. Here’s what to look for, and the questions worth asking.
What happens after the shoot? Post-production explained
Filming is only half the job, so here’s what happens in the edit, what you’ll be asked to approve at each stage and how to keep it all moving.
Does it matter if viewers are on their phones?
Most of us watch TV with a phone in our hand. It matters less to advertisers than you’d expect, and for some businesses the phone is a help.
Local TV advertising: how to advertise by postcode
You can now show your TV advert only to the households near you, on the same channels as the national brands. Here’s how it works.
How to advertise on Netflix
Netflix now carries adverts, and they’re watched on the biggest screen in the house. Here’s how it works and how to get your business on there.
TV advertising in 2027: more choice than ever
TV has gone from four channels and a video recorder to AdSmart, ITVX, Netflix and YouTube on the big screen. Here’s how it all fits together for 2027.
TV, radio or outdoor: which is right for your business?
Each has its strengths, and the best campaigns often use more than one. Here’s what TV, radio and outdoor are each good at, and how to choose.
Can I use my existing video as a TV ad?
A promotional or social media video can sometimes go on TV, though rarely exactly as it is. Here’s what usually has to change, and why.
How to write a brief for a TV ad
A TV advert brief needs a few things other briefs leave out. Here’s what they are, with a simple template, and why a conversation will do just as well.
How to advertise on Sky
Sky sells advertising across well over a hundred channels, and it can show your advert to chosen households. Here’s how it works and who it suits.
TV advertising for healthcare and dental practices
If you’re marketing a healthcare or dental practice, you need nervous people to trust you, and you’re working under stricter rules than most. Here’s how to approach TV.