And We're Live in 3...2...1...

Live shots are an important part of any broadcast. Viewers want to know that the station they watch and trust for information is out in the field, getting the most up to date news from the source, crime scene, or whatever the situation may be. At ATVN we are lucky enough to be able to take advantage of this important aspect in broadcast news. The tricky part is picking a live shot that will serve a purpose. Too many broadcasts, in my opinion, go "live" to a reporter in the field just for the sake of being live. What I consider to be better is a meaningful live shot that has action in the background, or outside of the courthouse while the jury is inside deliberating an extremely important case. These kind of live shots show your viewer that you are there to report the news the second you receive it. But when dealing with technology, there will always be the possibility of technological difficulties and the worst thing that can happen when you have a problem with your live shot is to not be prepared. So you must remember to ALWAYS have a back up plan, and stay professional. There can be so many complications when going live, and the last thing that a reporter, anchor or viewer wants to see or do is be live and not know they are on the air and have a confused look on their face, playing with their hair, looking away, etcetera. So be in the appropriate place at the right time, be prepared, and be professional and your live shot will be such an amazing addition to your broadcast.