How to Use an Ear Piece as a TV News Reporter

An ear piece, or IFB, is a special intercom circuit that allows TV news reporters and anchors to hear what's happening on air or in the control booth. The director and producer can talk to them, and the reporter or anchor responds through their microphone. Follow these steps to use an ear piece as a TV news reporter.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Have a custom mold made of your inner ear. Most hearing aid shops can do this in their office or send you a kit. This will show the exact mold of your ear, so an ear piece can be made that will fit properly.

2. Know that the molded ear piece is usually made of a clear substance. It's attached to a tube through which the sound travels.

3. Connect your ear piece to a battery-operated box if you're in the field doing a live shot. In the studio, you can either plug it into a box or plug it directly into a special outlet on the news set.

4. Listen to the stories leading up to yours. It helps if you know when your package will air because then you'll have an estimate of how much time remains until your live hit.

5. Respond when the director asks for a microphone check before your live hit. The director may also give you instructions to tell your photographer, if he doesn't have his own IFB. This will include adjusting the brightness of the camera shot.

6. Expect the producer to give you a stand-by cue through the ear piece before your live hit. After your introduction, listen to your story. Once you hear the end of your story, prepare to give your live tag.

Tips & Warnings

• Clean your ear piece often to avoid ear wax buildup. Some kits come with a small brush that works well.
• Pay attention as the news anchor tosses to you in the field. You'll hear her in your ear piece. She may ad-lib and ask you a question you're not prepared for.

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