Introduction

This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book provides guide for solo video journalism. It focuses on planning: how to arrive at the station prepared, brainstorm a story, and wisely use what some might call “downtime.” The book then discusses hair, make-up, and clothing, with advice on how to dress appropriately for both shooting and reporting. It also discusses equipment, from lights and headphones to the camera itself. The book explores how to develop a digital presence and balance journalists on-air and online responsibilities. It then details the rules and guidelines for collecting footage, or B-roll and provides advice for conducting interviews. The book also offers a deep dive into logging interviews and writing journalists story. It examines editing – a critical skill for any visual storyteller and provides advice for thinking big in the journalistic field.