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Greg_Groogan's Blog

by Greg_Groogan from Houston

Last Post 8 days, 7 hours Ago


So how do you want them ? Brief or with some BEEF
Jun 27, 2007 | 9:29 PM
Category: News
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Your news stories that is.

 Here's how it is. I'm what they call a "long format type" which means my pieces usually run around two and a half or three minutes. Most other reporters are limited to about 1:30 give or take a few seconds.

Sure, more story telling time allows me to delve deeper, illuminate personalities more fully and showcase, to some extent, a more descriptive, albeit less economic, style of writing. Added length also allows my gifted photographers and editors to incorporate a greater degree of  image and sound - what I call pure oxygen - into the lifeblood of the  tale.

When it's done right - the reporting finds a home in the memory and conversations of our viewers.

When it doesn't - many react with a slight movement of the thumb on their remote control... and they are gone.

That's why fewer and fewer newsroom decision makers are willing to take the risk.

Better to populate newscasts with dozens of  short, snappy stories - that way if a viewer gets an itchy remote finger on one item they may just stick around for the next rapid fire offering. 

A little about alot - a headline service with limited ability to relay any substantial understanding.

Consultants argue that's what a majority of  viewers prefer.. and when money is on the line - businesses tend to give consumers what they WANT as opposed to what they NEED. 

I'm grateful to my news director and station manager for the opportunity they offer me - the Risk they take regularly and willingly in pursuit of a story, well told.   

How do you stand ? Are you willing to kick to the curb a half dozen thirty second items in exchange for storytelling which seeks to resonate beyond - who, what, where, when and why ?

 

 

 

 

  

 

6 Comments |  Add a Comment

Member Comments Total Comments: 6
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PBMom read my blog view my photos
Jun 27, 2007 | 10:37 PM

I think it's important to balance both. I happen to like the longer stories. There are just some stories that can't be told in a short amount of time. I like stories with happy endings, too. (Loved the story you did about the prom dresses for the daughters of the soldiers). It helps balance all the bad stuff you hear about.
imatreat read my blog view my photos
Jun 28, 2007 | 12:47 AM

Greg, I've worked in some GREAT news departments along the way, with some GREAT reporters. And, I hope not to offend any other reporters in our newsroom, but I can say without hyperbole, that you're truly one of the best I've ever seen in your format. I know guys aren't supposed to show their sentimental side, but I can honestly say, that there has been a story or two from you, that has left a lump in my throat or caused the eyes to water slightly.

Hard news stories, current events, even some light features are supposed to be short and to the point. However, the stories you tell are supposed to be longer and give more details. I can honestly say, you've never told a story that has had me reaching for the remote. I guess it depends on the story you're telling, too.

I think sometime we should do a half-hour special on some of your better stories, because there are some gems that you have done. I don't know how you find all these feel good stories, but keep up the good work.
chassan read my blog view my photos
Jun 28, 2007 | 6:38 AM

Greg,

When a reporter wants to go longer with his story, he should have sound from people whose bites flow with emotion, not facts. And the story should include supporting video featuring the interviewed into some activity that supports the main point of the story.

Otherwise, the reporter should stick to the briefer format.

Viewers relate better to stories that flow with emotion.

If the story contains talking heads only, then the story will be quickly forgotten.

Your thoughts?
skeasling read my blog view my photos
Jun 28, 2007 | 7:54 AM

I have aways enjoyed your reports and i like the longer stories. Sometimes those consultants dont take in the fact of everyday watchers.
Charlayne read my blog
Jun 28, 2007 | 8:29 AM

There are stories that deserve just a mention and others that need the "feature" treatment. I think people like the "happier" news features most of the time and only when there is a great impact on people that a feature "bad news" story is needed.

What I totally dislike is the constant "teasers" about a story that is going to air later, especially one that is going to be two or three segments later. Tease it once early and then once right before you're going to air it, just before the commercial.

I love Fox 26, I love the morning folks an their style. But please, stop the two-three prior segment teasers.
ermurrow read my blog
Jul 4, 2007 | 4:32 PM

The thing that I dislike most about television news is the insistence on 15-45 second stories. You simply cannot tell a story in that amount of time. You have an absolutely incredible gift of encapsulating a story of human interest that leaves an indelible impact on the viewer. You are clearly one of the very best at conveying it in this medium. The truth is this is what draws me to watch Fox 26 vs. your competitors. Major Kudos to your news director and station manager to be brave enough to go against the grain and allow you to be a reporter to inform the public. Your station is tops on my list.
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Greg_Groogan

For as long as I can remember, all I've cared about is telling stories about Texans and what matters to them. These days that's pretty much all I do, so I guess I'm livin' the dream. Toss in 2 toddlers and a wife and my life is full to the brim. I'm greedy, I know there are great untold stories out there and I want them all. Help me do it.

Member Since: 3/20/2007


 

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