Broadcast Journalism 101: Broadcast Interviewing and Presentation - Voice Training for Broadcast Breath control pacing clarity

What This Is

Voice training for broadcast is the process of developing the skills to deliver clear, concise, and engaging audio for television, radio, and online news. A well-trained voice is essential for a newsroom, as it helps to convey authority, credibility, and emotional connection with the audience. A great example of voice training in action is the BBC's VOSOT (Voice of Self-Opinion Statement) format, where a reporter speaks directly to camera on location, combining video, voice, and a soundbite to quickly deliver breaking news.

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.
• Voice-over (VO): Pre-recorded audio played over video – use to add context or provide background information.
• Readers: Pre-written scripts read on air – use for news updates, weather forecasts, or sports scores.
• Soundbites: Short clips of audio used to illustrate a point – use to add variety and interest to a package.
• Pacing: The speed at which you deliver your voice – use to control the tempo of your package.
• Breath control: The ability to pause and breathe naturally – use to add emphasis and drama to your delivery.
• Clarity: The ability to enunciate and project your voice – use to ensure your message is understood by the audience.
• Script formatting: The way you write and structure your script – use to ensure a smooth and engaging delivery.
• Audio levels: The volume of your voice – use to ensure you're not too loud or too soft.

Step-by-Step Production How-To

1. Write a 30-second reader:
   • Keep it concise and focused on one key point.
   • Use simple language and short sentences.
   • Practice reading it out loud to ensure a smooth delivery.
   • Use a script formatting template to ensure proper margins and font size.
2. Structure a 90-second package:
   • Start with a strong lead-in and a clear thesis statement.
   • Use soundbites and nat sound to add variety and interest.
   • Use a clear and concise script to guide your delivery.
   • Practice pacing and breath control to ensure a smooth delivery.
3. Set up a three-point lighting interview:
   • Use a key light to illuminate the subject's face.
   • Use a fill light to soften shadows and add depth.
   • Use a backlight to separate the subject from the background.
   • Use a reflector to bounce light onto the subject's face.
4. Record a clean voice-over:
   • Use a high-quality microphone and a quiet recording space.
   • Record in a lossless format (such as WAV or AIFF) to ensure high quality.
   • Use a pop filter to reduce plosives and ensure a smooth delivery.
   • Practice recording in a way that sounds natural and engaging.

Common Mistakes

• Mistake: Reading a print article on air without rewriting it to make it more engaging and concise.
• Mistake: Forgetting to white balance your camera to ensure accurate color representation.
• Mistake: Not checking your audio levels before going live to ensure you're not too loud or too soft.
• Mistake: Not practicing your delivery before going live to ensure a smooth and engaging performance.

Broadcast Exam / Newsroom Assessment Tips

• Typical skill tests: Writing a script, recording a voice-over, and delivering a live package.
• Tricky distinctions: Understanding the difference between a package and a VOSOT, and knowing when to use gain vs iris.
• What assessors look for: Clarity, concision, and engagement in your delivery, as well as proper script formatting and camera technique.

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 authority.
• Rationale: A stand-up is a great way to add a sense of place and authority to your report, and it's quick and easy to set up.

Last-Minute Cram Sheet

• Must-know terms: VOSOT, stand-up, nat sound, voice-over, readers, soundbites, pacing, breath control, clarity, script formatting, audio levels.
• Camera settings: White balance, exposure, focus, and framing.
• Script formatting rules: Use a clear and concise script, keep it concise and focused on one key point, use simple language and short sentences.
• Common pitfalls: Don't read a print article on air without rewriting it, don't forget to white balance your camera, don't check your audio levels before going live.
• Software: Adobe Premiere, Audacity, and other video and audio editing software.
• Gear: High-quality microphones, cameras, and lighting equipment.