Writing
TV News Stories
LOOK and LISTEN to what is going on around you and
THINK TV.
Shoot SEQUENCE SHOTS—wide shot, medium shot,
close-up of the same setting.
Capture good NATURAL SOUND BITES.
Let the camera continue to photograph what someone
is saying IF what they are saying is something that would
enhance the content of your story. You can and should use
that video to help you tell your story.
During interviews, ask OPEN ENDED QUESTIONS.
SAY: Why did you decide to explore this idea?
DON’T SAY: Was it hard coming up with an idea?
Write what you CANNOT see.
If you have video of two people talking,
SAY:
There was an ongoing exchange of ideas…
DON’T SAY:
Two legislative delegates talked about their bill.