Archive for the ‘NewscastTip’ Category

NewscastTip: Generic supers add additional info to stories

Using lower thirds to label stories have several names — generic supers, headlines, banners, descriptors, descriptions, labels (we’ll refer to them as generic supers in this column) — and they can be quite effective storytelling tools if done right.

First, when designing the template for your generic super graphics, many stations often use a standard lower third. This works well, but it’s also worth considering if a slightly different look might serve you better. For example, you may not need a second tier for generic supers and can therefore free up some space.

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NewscastTip: Keep viewers informed with good closing graphics design

Bitter wind chills are sweeping the county while snow piles up higher and higher — and that means it’s time to fire up the closing alerts.

When considering how to graphically present closing information, there are three main factors to consider: text size, display time and on-screen positioning.

Using a clear, easy-to-read typeface is key to creating useful graphics. Also be sure to consider color selection and contrast as well as size.
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NewscastTip: Monitor options each offer key advantages

Having well-placed monitors for talent to see stories is a vital part of your studio setup and while there are solutions designed to mount flat panel LCDs to either the side of the camera, facing the anchor desk or the front of the teleprompter, these can be costly and sometimes are only compatible with certain equipment, there are less expensive options.

Obviously, in-desk monitors are a popular option and have the advantage of being discreet and not taking up studio floor space.
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NewscastTip: Some interview set furniture considerations

As I wrote a few weeks ago, the process of selecting anchor chairs has many aspects to considre: and the same is true for selecting seating and other furniture for interview-style areas.

When selecting interview set furniture, keep in mind that it is, more often than not, more visible than anchor chairs since there isn’t a full-height desk in front of them.

Try to avoid using generic waiting-room style chairs, though keeping shots tight is a good strategy to prevent less photogenic furniture from appearing on air. It’s also a good idea to avoid using wheeled chairs since guests or talent might inadvertently shift them too much, making it difficult to frame shots.
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NewscastTip: Web security becoming big concern for many stations

Web security is becoming a bigger concern for high-profile sites as there have already been cases of TV station Web sites and social networking accounts getting hacked and having undesirable content posted to them, but there are some easy steps to take in securing your station’s accounts.

The most important thing to remember is no password is unbreakable. The best you can do is create one that’s as strong as possible.
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NewscastTip: Anchor seating options balance comfort, style

Selecting chairs for the anchor desk is as much about comfort as how the the furniture looks on air.

For news sets, the design of the backs of chairs isn’t a huge factor since most anchors don’t lean back when on air. However, talent often like to lean back during commercials or when not on the air, so having a comfortable back can be advantageous.

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NewscastTip: Optimizing sites for search key in visibility

News properties are some of the most popular sites online and there is tough competition to get top search engine rankings for news-related terms, and there are some simple ways to boost your site’s rankings.

First, it’s important to identify just what keywords users are likely to use. Some are obvious, such as “news,” but others aren’t. One good technique is to hold a brainstorming session with various staff members (and members of the public if you can) to develop a list of words users would be likely to use when searching for the content you offer online. Use the results to fuel the rest of your strategy.
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NewscastTip: On-set video backgrounds present many challenges

This week’s incident of a bird wandering in front of a live camera that was feeding an on-set video background — creating the appearance of a giant gull “attack” — is a good reason to consider the options for video backgrounds like this.

It’s no doubt rear projection and huge flat panel screens are becoming more and more popular in set design.

The screens allow the flexibility to instantly changing out a background, instead of having to manually change out duratrans, as well  being able to use motion and video.
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NewscastTip: Learn to use social media to your advantage

“Social media” seems to be the biggest buzz word right now — but how can your station more effectively use it?

While simply feeding headlines to social media services is a great start and can be very effective at driving traffic to your site, users expect more.
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NewscastTip: To name or not to name? A look at pros, cons of options

Many television stations brand one or more of their newscasts with a title rather than the time of day the program is broadcast, but is this a good idea?

The practice of using a title for newscasts is hardly new and can be quite effective if done right.
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NewscastTip: Put cards back in business with new ideas

Business cards, despite being a bit “old school,” can, with some good design and added features, become great branding opportunities for your station’s staffers.

A good starting point is to take cues from your news graphics package. Full color printing for business cards has also gotten very affordable, which is a perfect way to showcase your station logo and incorporate elements from your graphics.
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NewscastTip: Online video production tips ensure legibility

Because Web videos still tend to be smaller dimensions and lower quality, production values for Web newscasts often need to be a bit different.

One of the biggest concerns is legibility. Lower thirds should be simplified and use larger text size and it’s often best to only use one line of text. If a second line is needed, avoid making the text too small; instead use other design techniques to differentiate between tiers. Also consider font choice and color carefully since condensed fonts are often difficult to read.

Text size likely should also be increased for any full screen or OTS graphics. In addition, be cognizant of how images and design elements used might appear when viewed at smaller sizes or if the video quality is a low.
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