Briggs Review 7: The Power of Audio
Posted by jsouthee on March 3, 2011
Audio is a very powerful tool when used right. What makes audio effective is that it is a more personal experience than video or text generally is: Usually listeners are alone (in a car or in their room), so that makes it more personable. Audio is not only for the car, though; it can be used for a podcast or slideshow, for example. Today NPR leads the industry of audio journalism.
Here’s what makes good audio journalism:
- Script: Even though it may seem like it’s okay to just ‘wing it,’ having a script is a good idea so that the audio sounds more professional.
- Practice: Find out which questions yield the best results by asking your questions before recording so that you know which questions were the best to ask, then ask the best questions again when you record.
- Finding the right spots: There should be minimal background noise, such as traffic or crowds, wherever you record.
- Natural noise: Use natural sounds that make the story more authentic, such as puppies barking at a pet adoption event.
- Be a performer: You have to keeps things interesting to hook your audience, so be enthusiastic and get their attention.
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