10.2 On-camera presentation skills

On-camera presentation skills are crucial for journalists to effectively communicate their stories to viewers. From maintaining confidence and credibility to mastering vocal techniques, these skills help reporters engage audiences and build trust. Facial expressions, body language, and composure during live segments also play vital roles in delivering impactful news.

Journalists must balance professionalism with relatability, using appropriate tones and inflections to match story content. By honing these skills, reporters can convey information clearly, handle unexpected situations gracefully, and create a strong connection with their audience, ultimately enhancing the impact of their reporting.

On-Camera Presentation Skills

On-camera presence and credibility

Top images from around the web for On-camera presence and credibility

• 

  Professional standards in journalism are still critical View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Journalism branding: Impact on reporters' personal identities - Journalist's Resource View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Unit 33: Informative and Persuasive Presentations – Communication at Work View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Professional standards in journalism are still critical View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Journalism branding: Impact on reporters' personal identities - Journalist's Resource View original

  Is this image relevant?

1 of 3

Top images from around the web for On-camera presence and credibility

• 

  Professional standards in journalism are still critical View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Journalism branding: Impact on reporters' personal identities - Journalist's Resource View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Unit 33: Informative and Persuasive Presentations – Communication at Work View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Professional standards in journalism are still critical View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Journalism branding: Impact on reporters' personal identities - Journalist's Resource View original

  Is this image relevant?

1 of 3

• Confidence
  • Believe in your abilities and the importance of the story
  • Maintain eye contact with the camera lens to engage the audience (direct address)
  • Speak with authority and conviction to establish trust with viewers
• Credibility
  • Demonstrate knowledge of the subject matter through thorough research and preparation
  • Use accurate and verified information from reputable sources (government agencies, academic institutions)
  • Cite reliable sources when necessary to support claims and build trust
• Relatability
  • Connect with the audience through a conversational tone to create a sense of familiarity
  • Use personal anecdotes or examples when appropriate to humanize the story (sharing a relevant experience)
  • Show empathy and understanding for the audience's perspective to build a rapport

Vocal techniques for broadcasting

• Pacing
  • Speak at a moderate, consistent speed to ensure clarity and comprehension
  • Pause for emphasis or to allow the audience to process information (after key points)
  • Vary the pace to maintain audience engagement and avoid monotony
• Tone
  • Use a tone that matches the content and mood of the story (serious for hard news, lighthearted for features)
  • Convey seriousness for hard news and lightheartedness for feature stories to align with the subject matter
  • Maintain a professional and objective tone throughout to uphold journalistic standards
• Inflection
  • Emphasize key words or phrases to highlight their importance and draw attention (names, locations, dates)
  • Use rising inflection for questions and falling inflection for statements to provide clarity
  • Vary inflection to create interest and avoid monotony in delivery

Facial expressions and body language

• Facial expressions
  • Use genuine expressions that match the emotional content of the story to convey authenticity
  • Smile when delivering good news or positive stories to create a positive connection
  • Show concern or empathy when reporting on serious or tragic events to demonstrate sensitivity
• Body language
  • Maintain an open and engaged posture to convey confidence and approachability (shoulders back, arms uncrossed)
  • Use natural hand gestures to emphasize points and add visual interest
  • Avoid fidgeting or distracting movements that can undermine credibility (playing with hair, tapping fingers)
• Matching expressions and body language to the story
  • Ensure that your nonverbal communication aligns with the verbal content for consistency
  • Convey confidence and authority for hard news stories through a serious demeanor
  • Display warmth and approachability for human interest pieces with a friendly and engaging presence

Composure in live segments

• Composure
  • Remain calm and focused under pressure to maintain professionalism
  • Handle unexpected interruptions or technical difficulties gracefully to minimize disruptions (continuing smoothly after a mistake)
  • Maintain a consistent demeanor throughout the segment to project stability and reliability
• Professionalism
  • Dress appropriately for the story and the audience to show respect and credibility (suits for formal events, casual wear for field reporting)
  • Use proper language and avoid slang or jargon to ensure clarity and accessibility
  • Respect the privacy and dignity of sources and subjects to uphold ethical standards
• Handling mistakes
  • Acknowledge and correct errors promptly and transparently to maintain trust with the audience
  • Apologize sincerely for any missteps or inaccuracies to show accountability
  • Learn from mistakes and take steps to prevent future occurrences through self-reflection and improvement