There's Always Time for Class

Editors make time to train their newsroom, and journalists take the time to hone their skills -- at least that's the way WashingtonPost.com rolls.

During a roundtable discussion and tour he gave my graduate class this weekend, Chet Rhodes sounded off on reporters picking up video skills and the majesty that is the Washington Post family of products.

Rhodes, a former U of MD professor, oversees the daily videos at WashingtonPost.com as Assistant Managing Editor. His academic experience, combined with 8 years at one of the top mainstream papers in the country, definately showed. He provided some excellent words of advice for print or online journalists struggling to make deadlines, much less class.

His advice for those making the transition:

- If reporting live or doing a stand-up for a basic news package; remember to give the viewer three things --
1. Who you are and the newsroom you represent
2. What happened; and
3. What's next

- To get the best shots keep these three things in mind
1. Don't Zoom While Taping -- the human eye doesn't zoom.
2. Get Wide, Medium and Tight shots
3. The Pan RARELY works -- use it sparingly and only for visually interesting views

Of all the advice Rhodes offered, his recomendation to take classes, seek training and ask questions truly stood out.

"We train our reporters," Rhoades said. "There's always time for classes."

Check out Mr. Rhodes talking about the training the Post has done below.




You can also see some highlights from a class Rhodes conducted during the Online News Association Conference.