These past few weeks have been a rollercoaster of emotions, filled with ups and downs that have in the end helped me grow. At the beginning of the semester, I started with one goal: to be on camera and really dive into broadcast reporting. However, by the second show, I quickly realized that it wasn't the right fit for me. It was an eye-opening moment, and it made me reflect on what I truly enjoy and value in this field. I have come to appreciate the love I have for writing but also the role of a videographer in a newsroom. I have learned that being behind the camera is just as important as being in front of it and that reporters depend on the videographer's skills to bring their stories to life.
One experience that stood out to me the most in the past few weeks occurred when I helped Mason Kinsey with a story about local businesses in Morgantown. We met with a business owner who was incredibly kind and welcoming, which made the whole process smooth and easygoing. This moment not only made me happy but also reinforced my belief that I am on the right career path. After Mason finished his interview, the three of us chatted for a while. During this conversation, I gained valuable insights into business ownership, community and the world. It was one of those moments where you realize a complete stranger just taught me so much about life in just a short conversation.
Mason jokingly looked at me, “I feel like I was interrupting girl time,” as the conversation ended. But in that moment, I realized that videographers can still make connections and build sources of their own, even if we are not always the ones speaking on camera. It was a good reminder that our jobs go beyond just pressing the record button, we are also part of the process of telling a story while forming bonds of our own along the way.
Once the interview was finished, Mason and I worked together to gather b-roll and film his on camera teases. It was also during this process I understood the importance of a videographer’s role. Mason was so meticulous in gathering detailed video shots, which helped add so much depth and texture to his story. Watching him work helped me learn a lot about what it means to film a good b-roll.
I have written about this before, but I continue to see how rewarding it is when others in the class ask for my help and I can contribute to make their work better. On editing day, I received multiple texts asking when I would be helping in the edit lab to assist other classmates with their packages. The fact that people around me have trust and can rely on my support definitely has boosted my confidence, but also makes me nervous. I wanted to help in the best ways I possibly can to ensure they were giving their best work.
Each week brings new experiences, hardships and lessons that continue to push my understanding of this industry. I am excited to grow and see what this class still has for me to learn. I am also excited to continue to help my classmates grow while they do the same for me. Every opportunity is a chance to strengthen my passions in this field. I am so excited to see what is left in this class and what is yet to come.