Tally Light
A Tally Light is a small indicator light on professional video cameras and other broadcast equipment that shows when the camera is "live" or being used in a broadcast. Think of it like a "on-air" signal light that helps camera operators, talent, and production staff know which camera is currently broadcasting. It's an essential tool in multi-camera productions like news broadcasts, live events, or studio shows. The term might appear in job descriptions for broadcast engineers, camera operators, or technical directors who need to work with this equipment.
Examples in Resumes
Maintained and troubleshot Tally Light systems for 5-camera studio setup
Integrated Tally Light indicators with new switcher system for live news broadcast
Trained camera operators on proper use of Tally Light signals during live productions
Typical job title: "Broadcast Engineers"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Broadcast Engineers
Professional Organizations
Online Communities
Job Resources
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you design a tally system for a multi-camera studio that needs to work across different types of equipment?
Expected Answer: A senior candidate should discuss integration between different brands of equipment, backup systems, and troubleshooting methods. They should mention experience with various protocols and systems used in modern broadcast environments.
Q: What considerations are important when setting up tally systems for remote production?
Expected Answer: The answer should cover network delays, reliability concerns, backup systems, and how to ensure proper synchronization between remote locations and the main control room.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What are common issues with tally systems and how do you troubleshoot them?
Expected Answer: Should be able to describe typical problems like false triggers, delayed signals, or non-functioning lights, and explain basic troubleshooting steps and maintenance procedures.
Q: How do you explain tally system operation to new camera operators?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate ability to clearly explain the importance of tally lights, basic operation, and common practices for working with them in a production environment.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What is the purpose of a tally light system?
Expected Answer: Should explain that tally lights indicate which camera is currently live on air, helping both camera operators and on-screen talent know which camera to use.
Q: What are the different colors of tally lights and what do they mean?
Expected Answer: Should know that red typically indicates 'on air' or 'live', while green or amber might indicate 'preview' or 'standby' depending on the system.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic understanding of tally light operations
- Camera operation fundamentals
- Basic studio equipment knowledge
- Understanding of live production workflow
Mid (2-5 years)
- Troubleshooting tally systems
- Integration with various studio equipment
- Multi-camera production experience
- Basic system maintenance
Senior (5+ years)
- Advanced system design and integration
- Complex troubleshooting and repair
- Team training and supervision
- Remote production setup experience
Red Flags to Watch For
- No experience with live production environments
- Unfamiliarity with basic broadcast equipment
- Lack of problem-solving skills during technical difficulties
- No understanding of production communication protocols
Related Terms
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