How to Be News Videographer - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

May 11, 2020 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

How to Become

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The increased prevalence of news videographers has led to more and better visual coverage of breaking news. With their ability to capture events in real time, news videographers are able to provide compelling footage for viewers on television, online and in print. The rise of news videography has also allowed for more in-depth reporting and analysis, as reporters can use video to explore a subject from multiple angles.

Furthermore, the availability of video has made it easier for reporters to gain access to sources, as they are able to establish contact with people they may have otherwise not been able to reach. The rise of news videography has had an undeniable impact on the quality of reporting and the speed of the news cycle, making it an invaluable asset for any news organization.

Steps How to Become

Earn a college degree in journalism, communication, film, or a related field. Most news organizations require at least a bachelor's degree in a related field.
Build a portfolio of your work. This could include anything from short documentary films to news packages.
Gain experience. Even if you don't have any professional experience, there are many ways to gain experience in news videography. Consider volunteering at a local public access station, interning at a television station, or working as an assistant to a professional videographer.
Consider obtaining certifications. The Society of Broadcast Engineers offers certifications in television engineering and advanced video production.
Develop a network of contacts. Reach out to local television stations and news outlets to make connections and establish relationships with potential employers.
Apply for jobs at local news organizations or production companies.
Stay up to date on the latest news and trends in the industry.

The impact of a reliable and qualified videoographer on a news organization is vast. An experienced, reputable videographer can help ensure that the news is presented in a professional and accurate manner. They can help capture the necessary footage for a story, provide the necessary editing, lighting and sound design, and help ensure that the final product is of the highest quality.

As a result, news organizations can build credibility with their audiences, as well as with their sources, which in turn can lead to increased viewership and revenue. Furthermore, having a qualified videographer on staff can help ensure that the news is presented in a timely manner, which is often critical for breaking news stories. having a reliable and qualified videographer on staff can be the difference between a successful news organization and one that fails to make an impact.

You may want to check News Graphic Designer, News Social Media Manager, and Local News Reporter for alternative.

Job Description

Operate video recording and editing equipment.
Capture video footage for various projects.
Work with the production team to ensure successful filming.
Setup and adjust lighting, audio, and other production elements.
Work with directors or other crew members to obtain desired shots.
Edit footage into completed projects.
Ensure all video recordings and edits meet quality and technical standards.
Monitor video feeds during shoots.
Troubleshoot and repair technical issues on set.
Gather b-roll footage and other supplemental material for projects.
Assist with archiving, organizing, and maintaining media library.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of video production techniques, including lighting, camera angles, and audio recording
Knowledge of video editing software and techniques, such as Adobe Premiere Pro and Final Cut Pro
Ability to troubleshoot technical issues related to video equipment and software
Excellent organizational and time-management skills
Strong communication and interpersonal skills
Creative problem solving and critical thinking skills
Ability to work independently and as part of a team
Ability to work under tight deadlines
Experience working with a variety of video formats, including HD and 4K
Knowledge of web streaming and video encoding technologies

Having the right skills is essential for any videographer. A videographer must be able to capture the story, create visuals that effectively communicate the message, and edit footage to create a cohesive, meaningful final product. Technical skills such as understanding the necessary equipment and software are also key.

a good videographer must be able to work with clients to create content that meets their needs and expectations, while being able to stay organized and manage their time effectively. Finally, having a creative eye and being able to tell stories in an engaging and visually appealing way will help any videographer succeed. These skills, when combined, can lead to successful and rewarding projects for both the videographer and the client.

Satellite News Reporter, News Technical Director, and News Assignment Desk Coordinator are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have shooting and editing news footage?
What techniques do you use to ensure news stories are told accurately?
How proficient are you in using cameras, lighting, and audio technology?
How would you handle a situation where a newsroom staff is requesting footage you dont have?
What strategies do you use to capture the best possible shot during a live broadcast?
How do you ensure that all the footage you capture is properly organized and easy to access?
What challenges have you faced when shooting news stories and how did you overcome them?
How do you stay up-to-date with the latest news and media trends?
How do you handle tight deadlines and unanticipated events while shooting news stories?
What was the most difficult news story youve ever worked on and why?

Common Tools in Industry

Camera. Used to capture video footage. (eg: Sony A7 III Camera)
Tripod. Used to mount and stabilize the camera. (eg: Manfrotto Tripod)
Video Editing Software. Used to edit and enhance footage. (eg: Adobe Premiere Pro)
Microphone. Used to capture audio. (eg: Rode NTG-2 Shotgun Microphone)
Lighting Equipment. Used to light up scenes. (eg: Aputure Light Storm LS 1C LED Light)
Filters and Mounts. Used to add effects to videos. (eg: ND and Polarizing Filters, Cold Shoe Mounts)
Drone. Used to capture aerial footage. (eg: DJI Mavic 2 Pro Drone)
Computer. Used to store, edit, and render video footage. (eg: Macbook Pro)

Professional Organizations to Know

National Press Photographers Association (NPPA)
American Society of Media Photographers (ASMP)
International Cinematographers Guild (ICG)
Society of Camera Operators (SOC)
American Cinema Editors (ACE)
The Motion Picture Editors Guild (MPEG)
Professional Videographers Association of America (PVAA)
Digital Video Group (DVG)
Creative Pro Video (CPV)
Association of Independent Video and Filmmakers (AIVF)

We also have News Intern, News Traffic Coordinator, and News Production Assistant jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Camera Operator. An individual responsible for operating a camera for the purpose of capturing video and audio footage for television, movies, news, or other productions.
Lighting Technician. An individual responsible for setting up and maintaining lighting equipment for television, movies, news, or other productions.
Grip. An individual responsible for rigging and moving equipment on a set for television, movies, news, or other productions.
Audio Technician. An individual responsible for setting up and operating sound equipment for television, movies, news, or other productions.
Editing Software. Software used to edit video footage for television, movies, news, or other productions.
Script Supervisor. An individual responsible for tracking changes in the script during the production of a television show, movie, or other production.
Teleprompter Operator. An individual responsible for operating the teleprompter during a news broadcast or other production.
Broadcast Engineer. An individual responsible for maintaining the technical systems used in broadcasting or other video production.
Closed Captioning Technician. An individual responsible for creating closed captioning to accompany video footage.
Video Switcher Operator. An individual responsible for switching between multiple video sources during a production.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a News Videographer?

A News Videographer is a professional responsible for capturing video footage for news broadcasts.

What skills are needed to be a successful News Videographer?

To be successful as a News Videographer, one must have a good eye for composition, technical knowledge of video equipment and editing software, and an understanding of the news industry.