Broadcast Journalism 101: Broadcast News Foundations - The Role of the Anchor and Presenter

What This Is

The role of the anchor and presenter is a crucial element in broadcast journalism, responsible for guiding viewers through a news program, presenting information, and engaging the audience. A well-crafted anchor segment can make or break a news broadcast, setting the tone and pace for the rest of the program. For example, a VOSOT (Voice of the Subject, On Tape) segment on CNN's Breaking News coverage of a natural disaster might feature a correspondent speaking directly to camera, with a soundbite from a local resident and footage of the devastation. This combination of video, voice, and soundbite quickly delivers the breaking news to viewers.

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 for narration, interviews, or soundbites; ensure clear, crisp audio with minimal background noise.
• B-roll: Additional footage used to illustrate a story – use to break up talking heads or add visual interest; keep it concise and relevant.
• Script format: Use a standard script format (e.g., 12-point font, double-spaced, with scene headings and character names) to ensure clear communication with crew and editors.
• Camera calls: Use standard camera calls (e.g., "roll and mark," "cut to," "hold for") to communicate with the camera operator and ensure smooth transitions.
• Lighting: Use a three-point lighting setup (key, fill, and backlight) to create a visually appealing and well-lit scene; adjust lighting levels and angles to suit the subject and environment.
• Sound check: Conduct a thorough sound check before recording to ensure clear, crisp audio and minimal background noise.
• White balance: Adjust the white balance on your camera to match the lighting conditions and prevent color casts; use a white card or gray card to help with white balance.
• Gain: Adjust the gain on your camera or audio recorder to capture the optimal audio level; avoid over-gaining, which can result in distortion.

Step-by-Step Production How-To

1. Write a 30-second reader:
   • Keep it concise and focused on one key message.
   • Use a standard script format and include scene headings and character names.
   • Practice reading the script to ensure a smooth, natural delivery.
2. Structure a 90-second package:
   • Introduce the story with a hook or attention-grabber.
   • Provide context and background information.
   • Feature a key interview or soundbite.
   • Summarize the main points and provide a call to action.
3. Set up a three-point lighting interview:
   • Position the key light at a 45-degree angle to the subject's face.
   • Use a fill light to soften the shadows and add depth.
   • Position the backlight to create a clean, defined edge.
4. Record a clean voice-over:
   • Use a high-quality microphone and audio recorder.
   • Record in a quiet, distraction-free environment.
   • Ensure clear, crisp audio with minimal background noise.

Common Mistakes

• Mistake: Reading a print article on air without rewriting – this can result in a dry, unengaging delivery.
• Mistake: Forgetting to white balance – this can result in color casts and an unprofessional look.
• Mistake: Not conducting a thorough sound check – this can result in poor audio quality and a compromised broadcast.
• Mistake: Over-gaining – this can result in distortion and a compromised broadcast.

Broadcast Exam / Newsroom Assessment Tips

• Typical skill tests: Writing a script, conducting an interview, recording a voice-over, and editing a package.
• Tricky distinctions: Understanding the difference between a package and a VOSOT, and knowing when to use gain vs iris.
• What assessors look for: Clear, concise writing, smooth delivery, and a well-structured package.

Quick Practice Scenario

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

• Answer: Shoot a stand-up with a clear view of the protest and a strong audio feed. This will give you a solid foundation for your live cross and ensure you're prepared to deliver the news to viewers.

Last-Minute Cram Sheet

• Must-know terms: VOSOT, stand-up, nat sound, B-roll, script format, camera calls, lighting, sound check, white balance, gain.
• Camera settings: Use a 1/50th shutter speed for a smooth, natural look; adjust the ISO to match the lighting conditions.
• Script formatting rules: Use a standard script format (e.g., 12-point font, double-spaced, with scene headings and character names).
• Common pitfalls: Avoid over-gaining, forgetting to white balance, and not conducting a thorough sound check.
• On-air traps: Avoid using a low-quality microphone or audio recorder; ensure clear, crisp audio with minimal background noise.
• Adobe Premiere Pro tips: Use the "match frame" feature to ensure accurate cuts; adjust the audio levels and EQ to suit the scene.
• Audacity tips: Use the "noise reduction" feature to remove background noise; adjust the EQ to suit the audio feed.
• BBC style guide: Use the "BBC style guide" for script formatting and style; ensure clear, concise writing and a well-structured package.
• CNN style guide: Use the "CNN style guide" for script formatting and style; ensure clear, concise writing and a well-structured package.