Video Journalists: Fad or Revolution? NorCal RTNDA to Debate

Video Journalists: Fad or Revolution? NorCal RTNDA to Debate

SAN FRANCISCO, Oct. 12 /PRNewswire/ -- The pros and cons of using "video journalists" at TV stations will be the featured panel discussion at the 24th NorCal RTNDA Conference & Awards, October 22 in San Francisco.

The BBC has transitioned to reporters who work alone with a small digital video camera and a laptop editing system, and KRON-TV in San Francisco will soon be the first major market station to make the change

The man behind the "VJ" name, Michael Rosenblum, says using reporters who shoot and edit their own video can save stations 20 percent to 70 percent in production costs while dramatically improving output. Opponents say it will lead to fewer TV jobs and reduce the quality of journalism.

Rosenblum will be on a panel of videographers, reporters and news directors debating the issue at the NorCal RTNDA conference at the ABC Broadcast Center.

Other panels will feature reporters who covered Hurricane Katrina; and "A Foot in the Door," tips for getting your first job or next job. Simultaneously, pros and students can sign up for tape critiques by major market news directors.

"World events and technology are changing faster than ever," says NorCal RTNDA President Greg Tantum, news director of KGO-AM. "This year's NorCal RTNDA conference is designed to help the seasoned veteran as well as the student better cope with those developments. At the same time it's a celebration of our profession."

The conference concludes with newsroom tours of 6 radio and TV stations in San Francisco's "Media Gulch." The awards banquet at the Hyatt at Fisherman's Wharf will be emceed by KGO-AM/ABC 7 news anchor Pete Wilson.

The NorCal RTNDA conference has something for everyone interested in broadcast news. College students or recent grads can get "a foot in the door." Those in small and medium markets can bone up on the skills and learn techniques to take their career to the next level. For the major market veteran it's a chance to revisit your passion for the business. Everyone walks away energized. It's also a lot of fun, a chance to see old friends and meet new ones.

You don't need to be a broadcaster or member of NorCal RTNDA to attend. Pre-registration is requested. Download a registration form at: http://www.norcalrtnda.com/convprogram.html

Source: NorCal RTNDA

CONTACT: Darryl Compton of NorCal RTNDA, +1-650-341-9978, or convention@norcalrtnda.com

Web site: http://www.norcalrtnda.com/

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