Both Sides of the Brain: Strategies for Reinvention for Solo Video Journalists

Abstract

Technological advances have made it possible for one video journalist to do the work of three. These solo video journalists perform the research and writing functions of a reporter, the field production tasks of a videographer, and the post-production assembly of an editor. Many of these hybrid journalists are veterans of the industry; once single-skilled journalists who have retrained themselves to work alone. However, while technology makes it possible, it takes much more than technical mastery for a professional to make this transition. Not everyone will be able to make the transition. From a series of qualitative interviews with former videographers and reporters, this text examines what factors are required for a successful transition into becoming a solo video journalist, including training, newsroom support, motivation, production competency and personal qualities.