Some people consider using music in a news-ish video to be heresy. They argue that it emotionally tugs at the viewer in all the wrong ways and strays from journalistic objectivity. Angela Grant of the News Videographer argues these points on her popular blog.
I disagree. I think music, if used well, can shape the narrative. In these struggling times for newspaper video (any news video!) creating a music collage can add needed energy and attract young viewers who are accustomed to ripping jolts music as they shuffle thru their MySpace pages.
In the video below, I wanted to open the piece with a musical montage to show high school life. The video is about Pledge Day at Jefferson High School in Cedar Rapids, IA. The school organized a series of activities to build team-work and cooperation in an effort to reduce bullying and intimidation. I went with a reggae song because I liked the mellow feel and felt it was appropriate for young people. I only used 30 seconds of music in the piece to open it. In the past, I have done entire videos with music over them — really music videos.
What’s your opinion on music in news videos? Does it help build a mood in a piece or is it an annoying distraction? Tell us in the comments section below! — Michael Barnes
I think if you argue that music in videos ruins journalistic objectivity, you are in a way arguing that narrative of any kind does the same. Unless you’re willing to set down the camera on a tripod and just let things happen, you are always making subjective decisions about what will be in the video, whether it be with editing, transitions, framing or music selections.
I agree Stephen. You are always making editorial decisions with whatever you do with a camera.