What I've learned ... About making sports packages

      Most people who know I teach sports broadcasting know I have limited actual experience in the field.  Oh, I have major experience in sports (former college athlete, four years as a sports writer, 15 years in college sports PR).  And I HAVE worked in sports broadcasting; two years in basketball color commentary, six years in football color.  But my sports television experience is limited to watching and working on the media relations side.

After a weekend of filming highlights at the MIAA Tournament,
I feel much more confident ... and much more sore!

     What I've depended on is research, seeking advice from pros and colleagues I trust and taking a position in our productions myself.  So this weekend at the MIAA Basketball Tournament, I grabbed a camera and filmed highlights for one of my students, who then cut my shots, recorded voice overs, and produced postgame packages.

     Let me share with you some things I've taken away from this experience. Now, lest you think I'm a complete newb, I DO know what goes into a package; I did have SOME training from my college and continuing education.  Just not a LOT of background.  So these first eight are just standard training tips and good practice in filming:

1. Closer to the action is better, but keep the shot
2. NAT sound is key (and keep your mouth shut)
3. Get crowd/bench/reaction shots
4. Give pad beginning and end
5. Aim to write to video, but generic audio with matching concept video is good
6. For stand ups, expression and hands are necessary.
7. Smile when doing VO so your voice has some life
8. Rack focus and zoom in manual settings

Now, to take those packages a step further, to go from good to great:

1. SEEK CRITIQUES!!!  Find a mentor who has been around and knows what works best.  This will require a thick skin.
2. Study and learn who are the top performers for both teams.  These will be the ones to really follow and make sure you are filming.
3. Figure out early who is most demonstrative.  You get some great video this way that goes beyond the action.

     Finally, I'm 46 years old.  My eyes and body ain't what they used to be. SO, do yourself a favor:

1. Make sure your contact prescription is up to date.  I THINK my shots were in focus, but honestly, it's hard to tell!
2. Exercise.  I recommend military press and lateral raises for the shoulders coupled with a good core routine.  That little five-pound camera feels like 50 by the end of the night.
3. Pack Ben-Gay (or Icy Hot, your choice).  Again, the camera gets heavy!

     So, whatever your sports broadcasting skill level, if you are interested in getting involved or getting better, grab a camera (and some pain reliever) and start shooting!