Things You'll Need:
- TV News Video
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Step 1
Constantly look for ways to get great video. When you are gathering elements for your TV news story always think of video first. When setting up interviews ask if there is any way to see the action happening. Always try to capture your interviews doing something instead of just sitting there. Ask if they have home videos you can use. Search file video, network feeds, freelancers and the Internet for additional video that can improve your story. Don't just settle for what the photographer hands you.
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Step 2
Work with your photographers. As they are shooting your TV news story, watch what they do. If you see a photographer getting a great shot, make plans to write your story around it. Ask your photographers for their opinions on great video you should highlight. They can tell you about creative shots that you don't know about. They will appreciate that you are including them in the process. If you see something that would fit well in your story, ask your photographers to shoot it.
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Step 3
Look at every frame of video. Be sure to scan through all your pictures before deciding which ones to use in your TV news story. Reporters see things while scanning a tape they didn't realize they had. There may be a hidden video gem on your tape. You won't know it is there unless you look.
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Step 4
Write to your video. This is what makes a good reporter great. You must reinforce what the viewers see by framing it with powerful words. Specifically reference everything the viewer sees throughout the TV news story. Point out powerful images like expressions, tears or crowds. If you find yourself writing without thinking about the video, stop. Go through every word of your script and be sure you are making the most of your video.
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Step 5
Manipulate your video for maximum impact. If you have particularly powerful video, make the most of it. Go ahead and repeat it or run it in slow motion while you describe the action and point out the exciting parts. Have the graphics department place arrows or circles to highlight portions of your video, or have them enlarge one section. When you have a great video, don't be afraid to flaunt it.
