Broadcast Journalism 101: Broadcast News Foundations - Structure of a News Bulletin Headlines packages live crosses sport weather

What This Is

A news bulletin is a concise, informative broadcast that delivers the latest news, sports, and weather updates to the audience. It's essential for a newsroom as it provides a quick snapshot of current events, keeping viewers informed and engaged. A well-crafted news bulletin can be as simple as a VOSOT (Voice Over, Sound, and Optical, or video) package, where a reporter speaks directly to the camera, accompanied by a soundbite and relevant visuals. For example, during the 2011 London riots, the BBC used a VOSOT to quickly deliver breaking news, with a reporter speaking from the scene, a soundbite from a witness, and footage of the riots.

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.
• Package: A self-contained broadcast element that includes a voiceover, video, and soundbites – use to tell a more in-depth story.
• Live cross: A live broadcast from a remote location – use to add immediacy and authenticity to a story.
• VOSOT (Voice Over, Sound, and Optical): A simple, quick broadcast package that combines a voiceover, soundbite, and video – use for breaking news or short updates.
• SOT (Sound On Tape): A soundbite from a source, often used to add depth and context to a story – use to support a voiceover or stand-up.
• B-roll: Secondary footage that supports the main story – use to add visual interest and context.
• Script formatting: A standardized way of writing scripts for broadcast – use to ensure clear, concise language and easy-to-follow structure.
• Camera calls: Specific instructions for the camera operator, such as "cut to B-roll" or "zoom in on the reporter" – use to control the visual flow of a broadcast.
• White balance: Adjusting the camera settings to match the lighting conditions – use to ensure accurate color representation and avoid unwanted color casts.

Step-by-Step Production How-To

1. Write a 30-second reader:
   • Keep it concise and focused on one key message
   • Use simple, clear language and avoid jargon
   • Include a clear call-to-action or next step
   • Format the script with a clear headline, intro, and body
2. Structure a 90-second package:
   • Start with a strong intro that sets up the story
   • Use a clear and concise voiceover to tell the story
   • Include relevant soundbites and B-roll to support the narrative
   • End with a strong conclusion that summarizes the key points
3. Set up a three-point lighting interview:
   • Use a key light to illuminate the subject's face
   • Add a fill light to soften the shadows and reduce contrast
   • Use a backlight to separate the subject from the background
4. Record a clean voice-over:
   • Use a high-quality microphone and recording software (such as Audacity)
   • Record in a quiet, distraction-free environment
   • Speak clearly and at a moderate pace
   • Edit the recording to remove any mistakes or unwanted noise

Common Mistakes

• Reading a print article on air without rewriting: This can result in a dry, unengaging broadcast that fails to capture the audience's attention.
• Forgetting to white balance: This can lead to unwanted color casts and a poorly lit broadcast.
• Not using a lavalier microphone: This can result in poor audio quality and a distracting broadcast.
• Not checking the script for errors: This can lead to mistakes and a poorly produced broadcast.

Broadcast Exam / Newsroom Assessment Tips

• Typical skill tests: Writing a script, conducting an interview, and recording a voice-over
• Tricky distinctions: Understanding the difference between a package and a VOSOT, and knowing when to use a lavalier microphone vs. a shotgun mic
• What assessors look for: Clear, concise language, strong storytelling, and a well-structured broadcast

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, followed by a quick interview with a protestor to get their perspective on the story. You then use the B-roll to add visual interest and context to the story.

Last-Minute Cram Sheet

• Must-know terms: VOSOT, SOT, B-roll, script formatting, camera calls, white balance
• Camera settings: Aperture, shutter speed, ISO, white balance
• Script formatting rules: Headline, intro, body, conclusion, call-to-action
• Common pitfalls: Reading a print article on air without rewriting, forgetting to white balance, not using a lavalier microphone
• On-air traps: Using a low-quality microphone, forgetting to check the script for errors, not using a lavalier microphone.