I <3 Web/Graphics
When I started producing I was scared of doing web. I’ve never been tech-savvy and frankly doing complicated things online usually makes me nervous. But…what I never expected was how much I love the job. I really look forward to my web/graphics shift. It’s the one producing position where you get some independence. You’re accountable for your own section of coverage and that’s something I appreciate. Being lead and video you have to look out for so many other people, it’s refreshing to have a day of freedom!
One thing I’m really proud of is the article I wrote for the web on President Obama’s first press conference since being re-elected. I’ve never had such a deadline for a print article. I watched the entire conference and took notes while he spoke (which was difficult to keep up with) and had a full outline for my story ready as soon as the conference was over. Luckily, the New York Times had a transcript online within minutes, which was incredibly useful for making sure my quotes were correct.
A lesson I learned was that you can’t pass judgment in your captions in OTS graphics. We did a story about alleged animal abuse by employees at Butterball. We had video of men kicking turkeys and doing really heinous things, so I was quick to make my caption “Turkey Abuse.” I was reminded though that even though the video is incriminating, it’s smart to avoid passing judgment. Especially when I’m out in the real world, something like that could be grounds for a lawsuit.
I only wish I had one more web shift to look forward to!
