Broadcast Journalism 101: Broadcast Interviewing and Presentation Teleprompter Use and OnCamera Movement

What This Is

A teleprompter is a device that displays a script on a screen, allowing the on-camera talent to read from it while maintaining eye contact with the camera. This technique is essential in a newsroom as it enables reporters to deliver information efficiently and effectively, especially during live shots or when presenting complex stories. A great example of teleprompter use is the BBC's coverage of the 2012 London Olympics, where anchors used teleprompters to deliver live updates and analysis during the games.

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.
• Teleprompter: Device that displays a script on a screen, allowing the on-camera talent to read from it while maintaining eye contact with the camera; use for live shots, presentations, and complex stories.
• Script formatting: Writing a script in a clear, concise, and easy-to-read format; use a standard font (e.g., Arial, Times New Roman) and size (e.g., 14-point) for on-camera reads.
• Camera calls: Verbal cues given to the camera operator to adjust the shot, such as "cut to wide" or "zoom in"; use to control the visual elements of the broadcast.
• Lighting: The use of light to create a visually appealing and informative environment; use a three-point lighting setup (key, fill, and backlight) for interviews and presentations.
• Audio levels: The volume of the audio signal; use a level meter to ensure the audio is not too loud or too soft.
• White balance: Adjusting the camera settings to match the lighting conditions; use to ensure accurate color representation.
• Gain: The volume of the audio signal; use to adjust the level of the audio.
• Iris: The camera aperture; use to control the amount of light entering the camera.

Step-by-Step Production How-To

1. Write a 30-second reader:
   • Keep the script concise and focused on one key point.
   • Use a standard font (e.g., Arial, Times New Roman) and size (e.g., 14-point).
   • Include a clear call-to-action (CTA) at the end of the script.
   • Practice reading the script to ensure a smooth delivery.
2. Structure a 90-second package:
   • Start with a hook to grab the viewer's attention.
   • Provide background information and context.
   • Include a soundbite or interview to add depth and analysis.
   • Conclude with a summary and CTA.
3. Set up a three-point lighting interview:
   • Use a key light to create a primary light source.
   • Add a fill light to soften the shadows.
   • Use a backlight to create depth and dimension.
4. Record a clean voice-over:
   • Use a high-quality microphone (e.g., shotgun or lavalier).
   • Record in a quiet environment with minimal background noise.
   • Use audio editing software (e.g., Audacity) to clean up the audio and remove any unwanted noise.

Common Mistakes

• Reading a print article on air without rewriting: This can result in a dry, unengaging delivery.
• Forgetting to white balance: This can lead to inaccurate color representation and a poor visual experience.
• Not checking audio levels: This can result in audio that is too loud or too soft.
• Not using a teleprompter: This can lead to a lack of eye contact and a poor delivery.

Broadcast Exam / Newsroom Assessment Tips

• Typical skill tests: Writing a script, delivering a live shot, and conducting an interview.
• Tricky distinctions: Understanding the difference between a package and a VOSOT, and knowing when to use a gain or iris.
• What assessors look for: A clear, concise, and engaging delivery, as well as a strong understanding of broadcast techniques and terminology.

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 B-roll of the protesters and the surrounding environment to use as a visual element during the live shot.
• Broadcast rationale: This will help to create a visually appealing and informative environment, and will also provide a sense of place and context for the viewer.

Last-Minute Cram Sheet

1. Teleprompter: A device that displays a script on a screen, allowing the on-camera talent to read from it while maintaining eye contact with the camera.
2. Nat sound: Background audio recorded on location – brings a story to life.
3. Script formatting: Writing a script in a clear, concise, and easy-to-read format.
4. Camera calls: Verbal cues given to the camera operator to adjust the shot.
5. Lighting: The use of light to create a visually appealing and informative environment.
6. Audio levels: The volume of the audio signal.
7. White balance: Adjusting the camera settings to match the lighting conditions.
8. Gain: The volume of the audio signal.
9. Iris: The camera aperture.
10. ⚠️ On-air traps: Avoid reading from a print article on air without rewriting, forgetting to white balance, and not checking audio levels.