After looking at Poynter's News University, I gained an increased understanding of the importance of writing for the ear. In fact, ABC News usually devotes an entire area to video, and thus audio, directly next to its main story. While looking at the video clips of news reports, I paid special attention to what reporters were saying and the manner in which it was said.
I found a video about Bob Ward especially noteworthy. Ward was accused of killing his ex-wife, but insists he was trying to stop her from killing herself and the gun misfired. The video explains there is a significant amount of evidence piling up, including a testimony from Ward's ex-girlfriend.
The first time I watched this video attentively, focusing on the video and audio. However, the second time through, I closed my eyes and only listened. The reporter uses short, yet powerful sentences to get her point across while still capturing the viewer's (or listener's) attention. The use of soundbites from forensic specialists added credibility to the story.
The website not only used video and audio for hard news stories, but also for entertainment. I found multiple videos related to the Charlie Sheen Roast that aired last night. Not surprisingly, the reporters covering these stories seemed much more informal and conversational during their audio reporting. It seems appropriate that the tone should change with the story, but I found the commentary on the Sheen clip a bit too unprofessional.
I found a video about Bob Ward especially noteworthy. Ward was accused of killing his ex-wife, but insists he was trying to stop her from killing herself and the gun misfired. The video explains there is a significant amount of evidence piling up, including a testimony from Ward's ex-girlfriend.
The first time I watched this video attentively, focusing on the video and audio. However, the second time through, I closed my eyes and only listened. The reporter uses short, yet powerful sentences to get her point across while still capturing the viewer's (or listener's) attention. The use of soundbites from forensic specialists added credibility to the story.
The website not only used video and audio for hard news stories, but also for entertainment. I found multiple videos related to the Charlie Sheen Roast that aired last night. Not surprisingly, the reporters covering these stories seemed much more informal and conversational during their audio reporting. It seems appropriate that the tone should change with the story, but I found the commentary on the Sheen clip a bit too unprofessional.