1st Place, Field Reporter
2022-23, Division 1, Video Talent and Airchecks
By Ryan Wilbert
WDBC Dragon Broadcasting
Lake Orion HS
VT-02. Field Reporter
This category is for compiled airchecks of the work of a single field reporter. Entries should include at least two examples of the reporter’s best work, but can include several selections from different newscasts and different stories. No studio work should be included; this is a compilation of “field” work only. The entry can include stand-ups, look-lives, field interviews and live spot reports, as well as other field reports. This category does not include live sports announcers, but it can include reporter work from sports news (e.g. game highlights and interviews). Attire and professionalism are factors in this category. Judges will assume that the airchecks included in the submission reflect the entrant’s BEST work; think of this as a demo reel to become a field reporter at a news station.
Judging Criteria
WRITING
- Is the writing clear, concise and conversational? Does the reporter use active voice and present tense? Does the script complement the visuals?
RATE OF SPEECH
- Do you talk too fast/slow?
COMMUNICATION OF IDEAS
- Do we understand what you’re talking about?
COMMUNICATION OF EMOTION
- Do you use voice fluctuation? Do you have emotion in your voice? Are you monotone?
MIC WEAKNESS
- Is your microphone too close or too far? Do we hear the sound of your paper script?
SINCERITY
- Do you come across as being genuine?
NATURALNESS
- Do we enjoy listening to you? Does it sound like you know what you’re doing?
CREDIBILITY
- Does it sound like YOU know what you’re talking about? Do you give credit to any sources that might be applicable?
PROFESSIONAL ATTIRE
- Are you dressed appropriately? Tuxedos and prom dresses aren’t necessary, but t-shirts and jeans aren’t appropriate either.
OVERALL IMPRESSION
AUTOMATIC DISQUALIFICATIONS
- If the video does not meet the specific time requirement (such as the 30/60s rule for PSAs & Commercials) (not including any black/slates before or after the video itself).
- If the video does not meet the category description.
- If the video includes copyrighted music or graphics
USE OF MUSIC OR OTHER CONTENT THAT IS NOT CREATED BY STUDENT STAFF MEMBERS
- If any music is included in an entry, indicate the title(s) of track(s) used and source of the music. Provide this information either in a name-slate/title card in a video entry or in the space provided on the entry form.
- If you are making a “fair use” claim on copyrighted materials, please cite your reasoning in the entry form.