Tom Hepworth- Video journalist

Today Tom Hepworth came into our lecture to discuss being a VJ. I thought that it was great to hear from someone who does what we do professionally and to be able to takes tips and advice from them.

Tom had some really good points for us as well as re-enforcing what we have already learnt. Tom told use to make sure we know what we are going to film; take a look around at what you can film when you arrive at your destination; what will make a good shot and what is relevant. By doing this you avoid shooting buildings and signs however he did admit to us that this cannot be helped on some occasions.

He also discussed shooting in sequences which is something i have tried to do but probably haven't done that well as of yet. Close up's of the action are good, we want to see the interesting details and emotion in peoples faces, don't waste space and don't forget a wide shot to show where you are after the close up. Over the shoulder shots are also good.

Tom then went on to answer questions that we were struggling with and then went on to talk about scripting. It doesn't have to be some formal and can be more conversational, not using language used by the press office but turning it into every day language. Tom said that not doing this can lose viewers and then the piece is worth nothing. He also said that less words were better and then things should be summarised with good pictures doing the talking.

I found his final points about being in control of great relevance to me. This is something that i have struggled with as i have not told interviewees where i want them and where i want them to be looking which has caused some of my shots to look and sound strange. He said how we must be in control and tell the people we are with what to do, where to stand and when to stop talking; controlling ouir surroundings so that the piece is how we want it. When there is a crowd or people jumping in front of the camera it is better to show them the camera and equipment because they are only interested and are more likely to co-operate if you talk to them rather than ignoring them; something i had trouble with in my first piece.

Sound was also mentioned and techniques to avoid getting bad sound, such as not standing towards a road when interviewing.I found his comments and his demonstrations very helpful and i will be using them in my packages from now on.