Tips for NewsHounds

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Sports Photography Tips

Get as close as possible
The closer you are to the action, the better your shot will be.
Know your sport
Sports photography is all about timing. Each sport has predictable and unpredictable moments. Understanding the timing of predictable actions allows you to capture the peak moment, when the action is most dramatic.
Timing
If you wait until you see it, you’ve already missed it. There’s only one way around this problem - anticipate the action. The key is to watch the player like a hawk, keeping a very close eye on her body language.
More photography resources

Tips & Info for a Great Sports Story

Reporting Basics
  • The 5 Ws: Who, what, where, when, why and how
  • Just the Facts: A good reporter must be impartial, unbiased and accurate. Don’t use terms like ‘we’ or ‘our team’.
  • Make it Interesting: Highlights, key players, player and coach quotes, why the game matters, why a win or loss might be important.
  • Bring the Action to Life: Describe the atmosphere, fan reaction, attendance.
  • Know Your Audience: Who will be reading your story? What do people want to know most?
Structure
  1. Intro: the most important news aspect of a sports game is the score. Who won? How did they win and what effect did the victory have?
  2. More info: More specific details—top scorers, injuries; highlights; any special news about teams
  3. Quotes: quote from the coach or a key player from both teams, both winners and losers
  4. Describe the game: describe a few key plays with or without quotes.
More reporting resources

Sports Video Tips

Keep It Steady
Whenever possible use a tripod for taping sports or any activity with a ton of action.
Pan Slowly and Stop Zooming
Take a few extra moments to set-up and establish the best angle for your shot and then let it roll. If you have to move the camera, keep it slow and steady.
Hold Your Shot
If you hold your shot for at least seven seconds, even if it won't need to be that long, you ensure that you get plenty of usable material.
Bring an Extra Battery
Don't get caught with a dead camera in the middle of a great game.
More video resources

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