From the classroom to backstage: How Spain's biggest audiovisual productions are made
In 2024, the market share of Spanish national cinema increased to 19%, a 2 percentage point rise compared to the previous year, according to data from Comscore. Additionally, during this same period, the National Markets and Competition Commission indicates that the use of paid platforms in Spain grew significantly: almost 62% of households with internet access used at least one OTT service, marking a clear increase compared to the previous year. These figures demonstrate that the audiovisual industry is experiencing one of the most significant moments in its history.
In this context, Javier Vidaurreta, Doctor in Communication and Vice Dean of the area of audiovisual technology, communication, and media at The Core School—a center of Planeta Formación y Universidades—offers us an in-depth look at how future professionals are currently being trained behind the cameras. From project-based learning to access to cutting-edge technology, he discusses the challenges, opportunities, and keys to being part of the major audiovisual productions that are defining the present and future of entertainment.
Behind the largest audiovisual productions in Spain
The audiovisual sector in Spain has grown exponentially in recent years, establishing itself as an international benchmark thanks, in part, to its ability to generate high-quality productions. The combination of advanced infrastructure, professional talent, and even the historical climatic context favors a constantly expanding market that has positioned the country as a nerve center of the entertainment industry.
What makes audiovisual production in Spain unique
The results of the measures implemented by the Plan to Boost the Audiovisual Sector "Spain Audiovisual Hub" are evident. According to the second report of the Spanish audiovisual sector, investment in the production of both feature films and series has increased, as well as the associated advertising investment. This plan has allowed Spain to establish itself as one of the most attractive countries for audiovisual production and shows. Infrastructures such as Madrid Content City, where The Core School is located, have facilitated major companies like Secuoya and Netflix to invest in local production.
On the other hand, according to data provided by Barlovento Comunicación, audiences have responded positively to this offer, increasing their daily consumption of television content. While the average number of minutes per viewer on traditional television has decreased, a new record has been set in the use of other platforms, such as streaming and video on demand (VOD).
With the arrival of platforms like Netflix, HBO, and Amazon Prime, among others, significant changes have occurred that require new approaches in all production processes. Currently, for example, distribution strategies must consider new business models, the importance of audience segmentation, and changes in consumer habits. Therefore, knowledge in digital marketing and content promotion becomes key factors to ensure the success of any audiovisual production.
The sector has evolved from traditional crafts, where the artisanal knowledge of classic cinema was passed down from parents to children or from masters to apprentices, to a level of technology that requires advanced studies. Similar to those offered by The Core School, where we work with project-based learning capable of reproducing environments that simulate the operation of an audiovisual production company. It is essential to train new generations with an approach aligned with the reality of the sector and the professionalization of the different roles that are capable of maintaining the required level of excellence.
The audiovisual industry encompasses a wide range of professional profiles, from screenwriters, directors, and producers to specialized technicians in various areas such as cinematography, art direction, camera operation, sound, lighting, or editing. If an institution is capable of designing study plans according to the needs of different professions and allows access to active professionals who guide students in their training and provide a realistic vision of the sector, we will be able to effectively transfer knowledge to new generations.
Key stages in large-scale audiovisual productions
Pre-production: Large-scale planning, scriptwriting, and budgeting
Every audiovisual production begins with a detailed planning process that determines its viability and success: pre-production. Innovative scripts and formats must be created and developed, facing the challenge of developing budgets and production plans tailored to the needs of each project, considering everything from financing to logistics. This phase also includes market and audience research, a fundamental aspect for designing attractive and profitable content.
The project-based learning methodology allows for the development of proposals that can be evaluated by audiovisual production companies and platforms, either in subjects taught by high-level professionals or in projects presented to external collaborators or as part of their master's thesis. Thus, students experience firsthand the level of industry demand and develop the necessary skills to face the professional world.
Production: Filming coordination, directing, and technical teams
Production is the process in which ideas become reality. During this phase, key creative, conceptual, and technical aspects must be addressed, and each department works from its area of expertise to bring the project to life, balancing the director’s artistic vision with the practical needs of production. This ensures that the shoot is viable, taking into account factors such as locations, set design, and available resources, with the aim of optimizing the budget without compromising the final quality of the work.
In an educational environment, this phase becomes especially valuable for students, as they take on the roles of different departments and learn to manage work teams while dealing with real-world production challenges. They are exposed to unexpected situations and must make strategic decisions on the spot, which is essential training for any filming scenario. These experiences foster the development of soft skills such as effective communication, problem-solving, and teamwork—core competencies for navigating the high-pressure and ever-changing dynamics of a set.
Post-production: Editing, visual effects, and sound in major productions
Post-production is the phase where content takes its final shape through editing, visual effects (VFX), color grading, and sound design. This stage demands a meticulous eye for detail to ensure that every element is executed with precision. At the same time, it calls for creativity and a strong artistic vision to find innovative ways to enhance and support the story.
Patience and perseverance are essential throughout this long and detailed process, which often involves multiple revisions. It also requires a mindset of continuous learning and adaptability to keep up with evolving tools and techniques. Time management and organizational skills become crucial to meet delivery deadlines efficiently. A strong sense of critical and self-critical thinking helps refine the final product, while problem-solving abilities and stress tolerance are key to navigating unexpected challenges. Finally, empathy with the creative vision of the director or producer ensures that the post-production work stays aligned with the original intent of the project.
In today’s audiovisual landscape, distribution platforms require specific formats and standardized workflows. For this reason, it is crucial to have instructors with real-world industry experience—professionals who understand the technical requirements and production pipelines of the sector. Their insight helps prepare students for the realities of the job market and increases their chances of employability.
Technology and tools in large-scale audiovisual production
State-of-the-art filming equipment
Access to state-of-the-art technology is fundamental in training the next generation of professionals in the audiovisual field. At The Core School, students work with high-resolution digital cinema cameras, production tools for virtual sets, LED stage screens, augmented reality systems, and industry-standard lighting and sound equipment. The facilities also include a live radio studio, a recording studio equipped with Dolby Atmos technology, and a film set with a variety of constructed sets and props to recreate diverse scenes.
Located in Madrid Content City—the largest audiovisual production hub in Europe—students benefit from a unique environment for their professional development. The proximity to renowned studios and production companies provides exceptional opportunities for networking and hands-on experience in high-level projects.
To enhance access to equipment and real-world learning, The Core School collaborates with leading industry players such as Atresmedia. This partnership allows students in the Master’s in Live TV Production to gain firsthand experience with professional news programs, including the opportunity to complete internships within production teams. Similarly, students in the Master’s in Radio and Podcasting are taught by professionals from Onda Cero and also have guaranteed internship placements.
These strategic alliances enrich the practical training experience and ensure that students are fully aligned with current industry standards and expectations.
Trends in large-scale audiovisual production
The industry is undergoing a major transformation driven by new trends that are reshaping both how content is created and how it is consumed. Artificial intelligence and advanced visual effects are revolutionizing post-production workflows, enabling the automation of tasks and the creation of hyperrealistic imagery. Meanwhile, the rise of streaming platforms has redefined market dynamics, encouraging the development of new content formats and distribution strategies.
Conclusion
In this rapidly evolving landscape, training programs must constantly adapt to prepare students for ongoing changes in the industry. With its strong emphasis on project-based learning, access to advanced technology, and close ties with top-tier companies in the sector, The Core School has established itself as a leading reference in audiovisual education. For those who want to learn by doing and be ready for the future of the industry, this is the ideal place to begin that journey.
At Planeta Formación y Universidades, the commitment to the audiovisual sector is both strong and strategic. Our programs are specifically designed to meet the real demands of today’s market, maintaining close connections with leading production companies and emphasizing hands-on training from day one. At The Core School, our goal is for students to experience the daily reality of audiovisual production from the inside out—preparing them to meet the same high standards and expectations they will face in the professional world.
