The Cal U spring 2015 Multimedia Journalism class has launched its website. All the students work from the semester is available. Visit the site here. My work specifically can be viewed by clicking on the "Multimedia Journalism link in the header, or by clicking here. Take some time to read and relax!
Deciding when it is appropriate to include digital media into an article or story is an important part of blogging and writing for an online publication. A news website that is just a series of text articles will look dull and unprofessional; however, a website overloaded with photos and videos will have the same effect on the reader. There is a delicate balance to obtain between what is too much, and what is not enough.
It is a good general rule that all (or most) posts should be supplemented with a photo near the headline (or title) of the story/post. This engages the reader and provides a visual of the subject of the story. In short article about breaking news, you would likely include no photos in the body of the text; rather, you would want only a photo near the headline of the post. If the post you are writing is longer, or higher in word count, you can break up the monotony of the reading by inserting a break in the page, such as a related photo, poll, or short audio/visual clip. Media should only be used when relevant and when it will add to the story. If the focus of the article is the aesthetic qualities of a town, place, or event, then it would good to add photos and videos. Sometimes, less is more. You shouldn't over do it. As readers, we have been somewhat conditioned to begin grinding our teeth and rolling our eyes almost immediately upon hearing the sentence "hey, you should check out my blog!" Bloggers promote their often esoteric content like a newly married couple promotes photos of their children on facebook, and it's easy to be put off on the subject before we even view the page.
When done properly however, blogging can be a great tool for journalists, those in public relations, hobbyists, enthusiasts of cats, and pretty much any other person with a specialized interest who wants to have his or her voice heard on their topic of expertise. Blogging has created a virtual world where up-to-date content exists on all topics, as form of constant citizen journalism. On-the-go and at home, blogs can be accessed from anywhere with modern technology, and provide everything from reference material (for an argument you're having with your buddy) to breaking news stories and current events (which you can also argue about with your buddy). Bloggers provided us with a flood of information daily on all topics. Blogging and other forms of online content are our pipeline to the world. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. Archives
May 2015
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