Broadcast Journalism 101: Broadcast News Foundations - What is Broadcast Journalism Radio TV Streaming Differences from Print

What This Is

Broadcast journalism is the art of storytelling through live, recorded, or pre-produced television, radio, or streaming content. It's essential for a newsroom as it allows for timely, engaging, and informative delivery of news to a wide audience. A great example of broadcast journalism in action is the VOSOT (Voice of the Subject Over Still or Video) package, where a reporter combines video, voice, and a soundbite to quickly deliver breaking news. For instance, during the 2019 BBC coverage of the UK Parliament Brexit debate, a VOSOT package featured a reporter speaking directly to camera, with a background of the Parliament building and a soundbite from a key politician, all within a 30-second time frame.

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, pre-recorded story featuring a reporter, video, and audio elements; use for in-depth reporting.
• VOSOT (Voice of the Subject Over Still or Video): A pre-recorded package featuring a reporter speaking directly to camera, with a background of still images or video; use for breaking news.
• Live shot: A live, on-air report from a location; use for timely, developing stories.
• Voice-over (VO): A pre-recorded audio track narrating a video or animation; use for explainers or graphics-heavy stories.
• B-roll: Additional video footage used to enhance a story; use to add context or illustrate a point.
• Soundbite: A short, quotable audio clip from an interviewee; use to add depth and context to a story.
• Script format: A standardized way of writing scripts for broadcast; use to ensure clear, concise language and proper formatting.
• Camera calls: Specific instructions given to the camera operator during a live shot or pre-recorded segment; use to ensure proper framing and composition.

Step-by-Step Production How-To

1. Write a 30-second reader:
   • Keep it concise and focused on one key point.
   • Use simple, clear language and avoid jargon.
   • Use a script format with a clear headline, intro, and body.
   • Practice reading it aloud to ensure a smooth delivery.
2. Structure a 90-second package:
   • Start with a hook to grab the viewer's attention.
   • Provide context and background information.
   • Introduce the main story and key points.
   • Use B-roll and soundbites to enhance the story.
   • End with a clear summary and call to action.
3. Set up a three-point lighting interview:
   • Use a key light to illuminate the subject's face.
   • Add a fill light to soften 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 (e.g., Audacity).
   • Record in a quiet, acoustically treated space.
   • Speak clearly and at a moderate pace.
   • Edit the audio to remove any mistakes or unwanted noise.

Common Mistakes

• Reading a print article on air without rewriting: This can result in awkward phrasing, jargon, and a lack of clarity.
• Forgetting to white balance: This can result in an unflattering color cast and a lack of visual consistency.
• Not checking audio levels: This can result in a poor sound quality and a lack of clarity.
• Not using a lavalier microphone: This can result in a lack of clear audio and a poor sound quality.

Broadcast Exam / Newsroom Assessment Tips

• Typical skill tests: Writing a script, conducting an interview, and recording a live shot.
• Tricky distinctions: Understanding the difference between a package and a VOSOT, and knowing when to use a gain vs iris adjustment.
• What assessors look for: Clarity, concision, and a clear understanding of broadcast journalism principles.

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, introducing yourself and the location, to establish your authority and provide context. This will also give you a chance to get a clear shot of the protest and the surrounding area.

Last-Minute Cram Sheet

• Must-know terms: VOSOT, package, live shot, voice-over, B-roll, soundbite, script format, camera calls.
• Camera settings: White balance, exposure, focus, and framing.
• Script formatting rules: Headline, intro, body, and summary.
• Common pitfalls: Reading a print article on air, forgetting to white balance, not checking audio levels, and not using a lavalier microphone.
• On-air traps: Using jargon or technical terms, forgetting to introduce yourself, and not providing clear context.