Broadcast Journalism 101: Broadcast Interviewing and Presentation Preparing for an Interview Research questions structure

Preparing for an Interview (Research, questions, structure)

In broadcast journalism, preparing for an interview is crucial to delivering a compelling and informative story. A well-researched and structured interview can make or break a news package. Think of a VOSOT (Voice of the Subject, Over Sound, and Title) on CNN, where a reporter expertly weaves together a narrative using a soundbite, video, and voiceover to quickly deliver breaking news. Effective interview preparation is essential for any newsroom, and it's what separates a good reporter from a great one.

Key Terms & Production Elements

• Stand-up: Reporter speaking directly to camera on location – adds authority and a sense of place; use to transition or prove you're there.
• Nat sound (Natural Sound): Background audio recorded on location – brings a story to life; never leave home without recording room tone.
• SOT (Sound on Tape): A quote from a source, often used to add depth and context to a story; use sparingly to avoid overwhelming the viewer.
• B-roll: Secondary footage that supports the main story; use to add visual interest and break up talking heads.
• Script formatting: Use a standard script format (e.g., 12-point font, 1-inch margins) to ensure clear and concise writing; use a scriptwriting software like Adobe Premiere to streamline the process.
• Camera calls: Use clear and concise camera calls (e.g., "roll, roll, roll") to communicate with your camera operator; practice your calls to ensure smooth transitions.
• Lighting: Use a three-point lighting setup (key, fill, and backlight) to create a visually appealing and well-lit interview; use a lighting console like the Arri SkyPanel to adjust lighting levels and color temperature.
• Microphone: Use a high-quality microphone (e.g., Sennheiser MKH 416) to capture clear and crisp audio; use a microphone stand to reduce handling noise.
• Interview structure: Use a standard interview structure (e.g., intro, questions, and conclusion) to keep the conversation on track and engaging; use a timer to keep the interview concise and within time limits.
• Research: Conduct thorough research on the topic and the interviewee to ask informed and relevant questions; use online resources like Nexis or LexisNexis to find relevant articles and information.

Step-by-Step Production How-To

1. Write a 30-second reader:
   • Start with a clear and concise script (12-point font, 1-inch margins)
   • Use a standard script format (e.g., Adobe Premiere)
   • Practice your delivery to ensure a smooth and natural tone
   • Record your reader using a high-quality microphone (e.g., Sennheiser MKH 416)
2. Structure a 90-second package:
   • Start with a strong intro (hook, lead, and thesis)
   • Use a standard interview structure (e.g., intro, questions, and conclusion)
   • Use B-roll and Nat sound to add visual interest and depth
   • Edit your package using a video editing software like Adobe Premiere
3. Set up a three-point lighting interview:
   • Use a lighting console like the Arri SkyPanel to adjust lighting levels and color temperature
   • Position the key light at a 45-degree angle to the subject's face
   • Use a fill light to soften harsh shadows and add depth
   • Use a backlight to create a sense of depth and dimension
4. Record a clean voice-over:
   • Use a high-quality microphone (e.g., Sennheiser MKH 416)
   • Record in a quiet and distraction-free environment
   • Use a noise reduction software like Audacity to clean up the audio
   • Practice your delivery to ensure a smooth and natural tone

Common Mistakes

• Reading a print article on air without rewriting: Avoid reading from a print article verbatim, as it can sound robotic and unnatural. Rewrite the article in your own words to create a more engaging and conversational tone.
• Forgetting to white balance: Failing to white balance your camera can result in an unflattering and unnatural color palette. Use a white balance tool to adjust the color temperature of your footage.
• Not using a lavalier microphone: Using a handheld microphone can pick up handling noise and other distractions. Use a lavalier microphone to capture clear and crisp audio.

Broadcast Exam / Newsroom Assessment Tips

• Typical skill tests: Assessors may test your ability to write a clear and concise script, structure a 90-second package, and record a clean voice-over.
• Tricky distinctions: Be aware of the difference between a package and a VOSOT, as well as the difference between gain and iris.
• What assessors look for: Assessors are looking for a clear and concise script, a well-structured package, and high-quality audio and video.

Quick Practice Scenario

You arrive at a protest and only have 20 minutes before the live cross. What do you shoot first?

• Answer: You shoot a stand-up to establish your location and add authority to the story.
• Broadcast rationale: A stand-up is a great way to quickly establish your location and add a sense of place to the story. It's also a good way to transition to the live cross and provide context for the viewer.

Last-Minute Cram Sheet

• Must-know terms: SOT, B-roll, Nat sound, and stand-up.
• Camera settings: White balance, exposure, and focus.
• Script formatting rules: 12-point font, 1-inch margins, and standard script format.
• Common pitfalls: Reading a print article on air without rewriting, forgetting to white balance, and not using a lavalier microphone.
• ⚠️ On-air traps: Using a handheld microphone, forgetting to check your audio levels, and not practicing your delivery.