MM #2: Some Examples

Now, in looking at these don't focus too much on technical quality. Like you, they were taking their first real journalism class, and like you they were using basic equipment of varying quality.

Instead, look at the principles they're trying to establish: thorough interviews of a broad variety of sources -- everyone from direct participants to neutral experts. Good B-roll that shows what is being talked about. Frequent use of captions and attribution.

Let's take a peek, shall we?

Is 'Jersey Shore' degrading to women? We even have a neutral expert in this vid!

The Old Town neighborhood. Lots of varied B-roll. This was the first general topic vid project ever for a student who has since graduated and now is a reporter at a Lansing TV station! 

Reaction to 2012 election. The story starts with B-roll, then goes to a series of short interviews with different students. 

The 'Right To Work' law. TWO neutral experts, B-roll ... lotsa good stuff. 

Downtown restaurants. Look at how the neutral experts set the background and offer explanations. Plus, look at the variety of B-roll and the use of captions to highlight key points. 

Roommate conflicts. In this video, instead of letting Subject A say everything in one shot, and then Subject B saying everything in one shot, we go back-and-forth between A and B. It makes the interviews more conversational in tone. After all, when we talk in groups, it's back-and-forth, without the need for any one person to say everything at once, right?

Greek community speaker. Again, B-roll showing what is being talked about, and captions used to highlight key points.

Catholicism in college. Could have used some more B-roll, but using a tripod helps get good and steady shots.

Pets on campus. Basic, to-the-point style.

Do these give you any new ideas on how you'd like to do YOUR video, or the best ways to do it?