Greensboro’s John Robinson’s Sunday column explained the News & Record’s foray into video. #

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As with the daily newspaper, we want to create content that is unique. With all the local television stations in this market, we see no pressing need to duplicate the standard newscast. One reason we didn’t shoot video the day of the fire at Eastern Guilford High School was because we knew the local television stations would have that well in hand. #

Instead, we see the need for quick, informative documentaries that tell compelling stories. We went for that angle a day after the fire with a mini-film on reflections on the school campus. In many instances, video tells stories more effectively than photography and the written word. It behooves us to provide both. So we’re learning, experimenting and learning some more. #

Personally, I envision the day when we become a paper whose staff shoots video that will either be the story or will accompany a written story. And the key, of course, is the story. (emphasis added) #

If you haven’t started considering video as a tool in your print news operation yet, now would be a good time to do so. The tools are relatively inexpensive, and there are options for putting the video on a College Publisher site that I outlined in this post – Video content in College Publisher. #

Notice the emphasis on a different format for video offerings. The N&R isn’t trying to replicate the TV newscast. It’ll be interesting to see how the users respond to this type of reporting. #

I think the key for college publications will be getting staffers comfortable with video and audio. You don’t have to give up dreams of becoming the next H.L. Mencken if you’re a writer, but you should at least be familiar enough with the tools that – if asked – you could handle a video camera and edit together a short clip. This will be even more essential for those who want to go into photojournalism. #

For college campuses, there are all sorts of built-in opportunities for series videos. Profiles of local bands, student athletes, restaurants and pubs, interesting campus traditions, etc. If this seems too overwhelming for one reporter, try using the team approach and assign two reporters to work together on one story. Enlist the help of a professor from your tv/broadcast sequence to provide some training if necessary. #

You can check out some N&R videos at this link to the Greensboro Minute. #

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