How to Create an Internet Web Series

Internet series have become all the rage in recent years. Further, given how inexpensive many of them are to produce, nearly anyone with a camera and Internet access can create their own. In fact, many Hollywood producers and agents routinely scout the Internet to find new talent.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Video camera
• Computer with Internet access

1. Create a catchy, concept for a show that can be faithfully executed despite whatever your limitations may be. Remember, most web series viewers are not expecting the highest production value, so no need to fret over sparse sets, simple costumes, or other budgetary constraints.

2. Create a detailed production schedule that includes hiring actors, finding and securing filming locations, and editing. Make all the necessary arrangements to ensure to the best of your ability that filming will go off without a hitch and the schedule will not need to be altered. Give yourself a deadline to post your first video.

3. Film your first video. Remember, since you will likely be filming on digital video and not expensive 35mm film, use as many takes as you feel needed to get the best end result. Also, do not forget to slate, or inform the camera somehow which take of which scene you are about to film, before every time you call "action". This practice will save you a lot of time in the editing process.

4. Edit your first video (commonly referred to as a "webisode" when aired online in serial form). Make sure you edit the video you think best showcases what future webisodes would have to offer. Set expectations at a reasonable level. Most online series rarely post videos that reach even the 10-minute mark in length, and many that are significantly shorter.

5. Post your video online for all the world to see.

Tips & Warnings

• Bring something fresh or unique to the table in order to get noticed.
• On the whole, online comedy series have dominated the market. However, a couple more dramatic series have gained great popularity as well.
• If you are posting a video that is not acceptable for someone to watch in a workplace setting, you need to tag the video as "NSFW." This stands for "Not Safe For Work" and is a commonly understood warning.
• Do not get discouraged if you fail to find an audience with your first few webisodes. The market is so saturated with these series that it can take a while for the cream to rise and talent to be recognized.

[tim111111]

on 11/9/2009 I started making my own web series, "Online Video" at www.loudmouthtim.com way back in April 2003. At that time, there was no Youtube, no Facebook, no Myspace, and the market for web video series such as mine was far more exclusive. Now any idiot with a camera can film and upload something, which is both good and bad.

My show, "Online Video" is still in production after 6-1/2 years, with 159 episodes to date! www.loudmouthtim.com

[tim111111]

on 11/9/2009 I started making my own web series, "Online Video" at www.loudmouthtim.com way back in April 2003. At that time, there was no Youtube, no Facebook, no Myspace, and the market for web video series such as mine was far more exclusive. Now any idiot with a camera can film and upload something, which is both good and bad.

My show, "Online Video" is still in production after 6-1/2 years, with 159 episodes to date! www.loudmouthtim.com

[saver]

on 5/4/2009 you can post your web series on pitchadream.com. It is a site dedicated to original shows

[rchapin]

on 1/5/2009 Good basic info. I've been producing "The Hunted" online for years and the best advice I can give is just get out there and do it!
http://www.youtube.com/user/thehuntedtv

[LickRosco]

on 12/12/2008 Check out theleaguetv.com This is an Internet Series that puts out a new episode monthly. It's completely original from it's content to it's music.