Yes, you read the title of this article correctly. If you want a really great writing critique, ask the guys and gals who focus on the images. Why? Because, in television news, the words are dependent on the images. The video and sound should truly tell the story. This is even true when using graphics to explain a subject. The visuals, combined with sound and words, are what makes this medium such an incredible pull for viewers. (despite the smaller screen you are using to read this article.)
Photojournalists really understand the powerful connection between the images and the words. They also know a lot of tricks to help you work around it when the stories are not as visually appealing as you would like. If you ever get a chance, sit down and watch a newscast with a photojournalist. It is fascinating to hear their rants vs. the rants of non-photogs in the business. Will you agree with everything? Probably not. But you will gain a lot of insight from the thought processes of a very visual mind.
So while you listen to the critique, keep an ear out for how many times the photojournalist mentions that a story did not make sense. My guess is you will hear that pretty often. Then take a closer look at the story. Chances are your copy and the visuals do not mesh at all. It really is fascinating to watch how often that happens in TV news. There is a large disconnect, especially in vo’s and vosots between the visuals and the words being used to describe the story.
Photojournalists help you understand just that. Your words describe the story. They don’t simply tell it. There is a difference in TV news. Let a photog help you see that for yourself. Get a critique. Who knows, the insight could make your writing style even better.
