When entering the world of Journalism it is important to remember that there are so many different routes and openings into other fields of work that it is key to know at least the basics for some of these, for example television reporting.
It is vital to remember that there are two different disciplines - videoing and being a journalist.
When working as a journalist you have to find pictures, interviews and the full story in order to produce an accurate and interesting report. It is important that you present yourself professionally and on time.
When videoing, you are most beneficial to the journalist. It is vital that you get the full story and battle against any other journalists to make sure you get the best shot.
How to approach an assignment;
- Fix up an interview regarding the story.
- Research the story, know the questions you are going to ask and know the full details within the story.
- Prepare yourself before you go out; make sure you have a structure and a plan.
- Think about the angles and the way you are going to film, whether it is interior (inside) or exterior (outside).
-Look at the environment, size, lighting, furniture, people and noise that may influence your shot.
- You do not want distractions, interviewees must be fully co-operative as they are only on camera for a maximum of 20 seconds.
-Ask for another location or if not possible to be interior, ask to go outside - there will be more light and is more pratical as there is no need to move furniture or people.
However this all depends on the nature of the interview, this is more appropriate for a quick interview as an interior setting is more suitable for a more involved, in depth interview.
When interviewing;
-Know who they are!
-For people rarely on TV, introduce yourself, appear friendly and positive as this is reassuring for the interviewee.
Interiors;
-When shooting in an interior space the most important thing to check is the lighting.
-Make sure you can see the person, they must be lit with no shadows or reflections.
-To test the light, use your hand to notice how the light changes, a bright light is always best.
-Think about where you are going to place your interviewee bearing in mind the factors listed above.
Exteriors;
-The most impractical element is when clouds pass over the sun as the light level will keep changing.
-NEVER use an automatic exposure setting as this gives you poor results.
-ALWAYS use a manual exposure setting even if you have to keep changing the levels to get the right shots.
-Focus is key; always make sure the focus is on the interviewee
Create the environment to suit you, simply ask to move things, shut blinds/curtains etc.
Work with your colleagues, ask to share lights with other crews when needed - be professional.
Sound;
-When under pressure for time and you need an interview use a radio mike.
-When outside do not use a small mike as background noise and wind will ruin your film.
-Use a fluffy mike otherwise known as a "fluffy" as this gives you the best results.
-"Fluffy's" are good wind protectors.
Tripods;
-Use a tripod as you will have better results.
-The tripod will help overcome any movement.
-Unfortunately the bigger and heavier the tripod, the better.
-A handheld camera can be appropriate at certain times you can move and walk more easily across different places to achieve different angles (from above and below as it is more fun and creative)
Personal Safety;
-When working on your own make sure you make a good risk assessment. Make sure you are not in any danger and that you look after yourself.
Preparation;
-When asking questions and taking notes make sure you put the name and occupation of your interviewee at the top of the page.
-Make sure you have a few basic questions to ask to remind yourself of what happened.
-Get a reaction!
Structure;
-A morning editorial meeting will normally take place discussing what stories will be covered and what wont be.
-You will be given a story with a time length.
-Make sure you collect information and research as well as vox pops as these are more effective in a story.
- Make sure you have a basic plan for a script and your film however that may change and have to be adapted.
-The most important shot is the first shot, it will determine if people will stay tuned in to your story.
Jargon;
GV - General View
COMM - Commentary
ACT - Actuality
SOF - Sound on film
OOV - Out of vision
VT - Video Tape
PTC - Piece to Camera
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