Chapter 5: Mobile journalism
According to a research poll in the Daily Telegraph, children living in the United Kingdom receive their first cell phone at the age of eight. Similarly, two-thirds of all Americans own a cell phone.
Shocking?
Amusing?
Boring?
Well, either way, we can all agree that mobile journalism is changing the news world. It brings the story a more personalized view point all the while telling it as soon as it happens. Some questions to ask yourself before pursuing a story through mobile journalism.
- Will the audience benefit if I tell them this story?
- Will the journalism be better if it’s done on location and with urgency?
- Will quick video footage or sound reporting help people understand the story?
If the answer is to most of these questions, then maybe you should use mobile technology to report. A few examples of times when you should use mobile journalism:
- Criminal and civil trials, especially when the verdict is being read
- Important speeches
- Breaking news
- Public gatherings such as protests
- Sporting events
- Grand openings in the area
Some items to take with you when reporting mobile:
- Laptop, iPad or some type of computer
- Internet connection
- Camera
- Video camera
- Audio recorder
- Tripod
- Cell phone!
In the end, enjoy yourself. Do what makes your comfortable. Tell the story, not your opinion (unless asked). And have fun.
Happy reading!
