2014 Reflection

This semester I have grown as a convergence journalism student in many ways. Transitioning to two hours of convergence journalism has been exciting and full of many new learned things. Throughout my years of e-comm I have learned how to incorporate technology, video, and social media. From software to collaborating convergence journalism has made me a better student.

Filming with a purpose

This year I learned many aspects of what it takes to make a package with storytelling and sequencing.   I started this year not really understanding the 6 shot system or how to create a sequence. I have now become a "pro" at using the 6 shot system and use it in nearly every video. Following the 6 shot system has taught me the concept of video sequencing and storytelling.

Here is an example of a video I have produced this year that follows the six shot system and other video skills I have attained this year.

Once I began incorporating different techniques such as sequencing, following the 180 degree rule,  and rule of thirds I have seen an overall better change in the way I edit and produce videos.

Interview with Mr. McRoberts following the rule of thirds

Producing ONW NOW 

One of the most exciting aspects of this class is getting to be involved with ONW NOW. This year

our set changed to an infinity wall green screen and a tri-caster which is a new system for producing the show. Before this year I did not have any clue how to use a tri-caster and now I have learned how to use it in many different ways. I have grown as a convergence journalism student by now knowing how to run a news show and learning the different areas such as anchoring, running the tri-caster, sound, and floor director.

Learning the tri-caster

The tri-caster has changed the way of production and allowing us to smoothly put together a professional news show that is exciting for students to watch. Overall I have had a great experiencing learning the tri-caster and anchoring.

Anchoring an episode of ONW NOW

Video Editing

I have been working with Final Cut Pro since my sophomore year. I did not begin to really improve my editing skills until this year. I have learned how to quickly put together packages and use all the features final cut pro has to offer. 

If I had not learned the tricks and shot cuts on Final Cut Pro then I would not have been able to grow in my video editing skills. The quick process of putting together videos to air on ONW NOW each week has taught me to become a better video editor and maker.

Goals for the future...

1. Become a better blogger and writer. This next semester as a class we will be starting more web stories and improving our blogs. I would like to start writing stories for the website and learning how to present ideas and reflections through my blog in a professional yet interesting way.

2. Better ideas for packages. Something I have struggled with this semester is finding story ideas. This next semester I would like to come up with better ideas for stories and a unique angle to present them. I think that more interesting story ideas would create a better ONW NOW that more students would like to watch, as a class we should strive for interesting packages with better angles.

Overall I have come a long way throughout my journey as an e-communication student. I have grown in many ways and hope that in the future I will continue to expand my knowledge of storytelling, video making, and blogging. I am excited to see what else I will accomplish and learn.