Broadcast Journalism 101: Radio and Podcast Journalism - Podcast Formats Interview narrative daily news

What This Is

A podcast format refers to the structure and style of a broadcast package, which can be an interview, narrative, or daily news segment. It's essential for a newsroom to understand and master various formats to effectively convey information to their audience. A great example of a well-crafted format is the BBC's "Today" program, which seamlessly blends interviews, news, and analysis to keep listeners informed and engaged.

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 to add context; ensure sync with visuals.
• B-roll: Additional footage shot to support the main story – use to break up talking heads or add visual interest; keep it concise and relevant.
• SOT (Sound on Tape): A direct quote from a source – use to add depth and context; ensure clear audio and proper attribution.
• LIVE (Live Insert): A live shot or interview – use to add immediacy and excitement; ensure proper setup and backup plans.
• Package: A self-contained broadcast segment – use to tell a complete story; keep it concise and engaging.
• VOSOT (Voice-Over, Stand-up, Sound on Tape): A combination of VO, stand-up, and SOT – use to quickly deliver breaking news or a complex story.
• Script format: A standardized way of writing scripts – use to ensure clarity and concision; follow industry guidelines (e.g., AP style).
• Audio levels: The volume of audio – use to ensure clear and consistent sound; monitor levels during recording and playback.

Step-by-Step Production How-To

1. Write a 30-second reader:
   • Keep it concise and focused on the main point.
   • Use a clear and conversational tone.
   • Ensure proper script formatting (e.g., AP style, 12-point font).
   • Record a clean voice-over using a high-quality microphone (e.g., Rode NT-USB).
   • Edit the audio in Adobe Audition or Audacity to ensure proper levels and sync.
2. Structure a 90-second package:
   • Introduce the story with a hook or lead-in.
   • Provide context and background information.
   • Feature a SOT or interview to add depth and context.
   • Summarize the main points and provide a call to action.
   • Use B-roll and nat sound to support the story and add visual interest.
3. Set up a three-point lighting interview:
   • Use a key light (e.g., LED panel) to illuminate the subject's face.
   • Add a fill light (e.g., softbox) to reduce shadows and add depth.
   • Use a backlight (e.g., hair light) to separate the subject from the background.
   • Ensure proper lighting ratios and color temperature.
4. Record a clean voice-over:
   • Use a high-quality microphone (e.g., Rode NT-USB).
   • Record in a quiet and distraction-free environment.
   • Ensure proper audio levels and sync.
   • Edit the audio in Adobe Audition or Audacity to ensure proper levels and sync.

Common Mistakes

• Reading a print article on air without rewriting: This can result in a dry and unengaging delivery.
• Forgetting to white balance: This can result in an unflattering color temperature and poor image quality.
• Not checking audio levels: This can result in poor sound quality and an unprofessional delivery.
• Not using a tripod: This can result in shaky and unstable footage.
• Not editing the audio: This can result in poor sound quality and an unprofessional delivery.

Broadcast Exam / Newsroom Assessment Tips

• Typical skill tests: Writing a script, recording a voice-over, setting up a three-point lighting interview, and editing audio.
• Tricky distinctions: Package vs VOSOT, gain vs iris, cardioid vs shotgun mic pattern.
• What assessors look for: Clarity, concision, proper formatting, and attention to detail.

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 provide context. This will help you transition into the live cross and provide a sense of place for your audience.

Last-Minute Cram Sheet

• Must-know terms: Stand-up, nat sound, voice-over, B-roll, SOT, LIVE, package, VOSOT.
• Camera settings: Aperture, shutter speed, ISO, white balance.
• Script formatting rules: AP style, 12-point font, proper margins and indentation.
• Common pitfalls: Reading a print article on air without rewriting, forgetting to white balance, not checking audio levels.
• On-air traps: Using a low-quality microphone, forgetting to sync audio and video, using a tripod that's not sturdy.