Broadcast Journalism 101: Digital Broadcast and Future Trends - Virtual and Augmented Reality in News

What This Is

Virtual and Augmented Reality (VR/AR) in news refers to the use of immersive technologies to enhance storytelling and engage audiences. In a broadcast newsroom, VR/AR can be used to create interactive experiences, 360-degree videos, and augmented reality graphics that bring complex stories to life. For example, the BBC's "Virtual Reality News" series uses VR to transport viewers into the midst of a story, such as a refugee camp or a natural disaster zone. This immersive approach can help to convey the emotional impact of a story and make it more relatable 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.
• VR/AR graphics: Interactive graphics that enhance storytelling and engage audiences; use to illustrate complex data or concepts.
• 360-degree video: A video shot in a spherical format that allows viewers to look around and interact with the environment; use to create immersive experiences.
• Augmented reality (AR) overlays: Virtual information that is superimposed over real-world footage; use to provide context and additional information.
• Virtual set: A digital set that can be used to create a more dynamic and engaging visual environment; use to create a more immersive experience.
• Green screen: A chroma key background that can be replaced with virtual graphics or video; use to create a more dynamic and engaging visual environment.
• LUT (Look Up Table): A color grading tool that can be used to create a consistent look and feel across multiple shots; use to create a more cohesive visual style.
• Audio sync: The process of synchronizing audio and video tracks; use to ensure that audio and video are properly aligned.
• Field recording: Recording audio and video in the field, rather than in a studio; use to capture natural sound and authentic footage.

Step-by-Step Production How-To

1. Write a 30-second reader:
   • Keep it concise and focused on the main point of the story.
   • Use a clear and conversational tone.
   • Include a hook to grab the viewer's attention.
   • Use a script formatting style, such as the "three-point" style, to make it easy to read and follow.
2. Structure a 90-second package:
   • Start with a strong lead-in to grab the viewer's attention.
   • Provide context and background information to help viewers understand the story.
   • Use a clear and concise narrative to tell the story.
   • End with a strong conclusion and a call to action.
3. Set up a three-point lighting interview:
   • Use a key light to create a strong, defined shadow.
   • Use a fill light to soften the shadows and create a more even lighting.
   • Use a backlight to separate the subject from the background.
4. Record a clean voice-over:
   • Use a high-quality microphone to capture clear and crisp audio.
   • Record in a quiet room with minimal background noise.
   • Use a pop filter to reduce plosive sounds and prevent distortion.
5. Create a VR/AR graphic:
   • Use software such as Adobe After Effects or Blender to create the graphic.
   • Use a 3D modeling program to create the graphic and add interactive elements.
   • Use a video editing program to integrate the graphic into the final video.

Common Mistakes

• Mistake: Not checking the audio levels before recording a voice-over.
• Mistake: Not using a tripod to stabilize the camera during a live shot.
• Mistake: Not checking the focus before recording an interview.
• Mistake: Not using a LUT to create a consistent look and feel across multiple shots.
• Mistake: Not syncing the audio and video tracks properly.

Broadcast Exam / Newsroom Assessment Tips

• Skill tests: Assessors may ask you to write a script, record a voice-over, or create a VR/AR graphic.
• Tricky distinctions: Make sure you understand the difference between a package and a VOSOT, and how to use gain and iris controls properly.
• What assessors look for: Assessors are looking for clear and concise writing, proper audio and video techniques, and a strong understanding of VR/AR technology.

Quick Practice Scenario

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

• Answer: You should shoot a stand-up to establish your location and provide context for the story.
• Broadcast rationale: A stand-up is a great way to establish your authority and provide a sense of place, and it's a quick and easy way to get on air.

Last-Minute Cram Sheet

• Must-know terms: VR, AR, 360-degree video, LUT, audio sync, field recording.
• Camera settings: ISO, shutter speed, aperture, white balance.
• Script formatting rules: Three-point style, clear and concise writing, use of hooks and transitions.
• Common pitfalls: Not checking audio levels, not using a tripod, not syncing audio and video tracks.
• On-air traps: Not checking the focus, not using a LUT, not syncing audio and video tracks.
• Software: Adobe Premiere, Audacity, Blender, Adobe After Effects.
• Gear: High-quality microphone, tripod, pop filter, LUT box.