• The Hollywood Reporter, Thursday, May 29, 2008 9:15 AM

Long considered the cheapest type of programming, reality shows are now being asked to make additional cuts to their costs. Mark Cronin, producer of VH1's "Rock of Love," says, "Every network is having its budgetary problems, and that's being pushed back toward all content."

New reality shows are now shot in the vein of Fox's "The Moment of Truth" -- studio-based shows hosted by lesser-known talent and touting modest prizes.

Tighter costs also mean productions are taking less time to shoot and edit a show. While the rapid pace can affect a show's quality, it's unclear if audiences care. In an era of popular grainy amateur videos on YouTube, just having a show shot by professionals seems to elevate the product above the qualitative waterline.

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