Tv journalism & Programme Formats 1 tv journalism & Programme Formats

TV Journalism & Programme Formats
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UNIT 9. ANCHORING A SHOW
INTRODUCTION
Anchoring is an extremely challenging aspect of journalism. This is because it involves doing several different things simultaneously – guiding the flow of a discussion, keeping track of time-limits, maintaining the link between the studio and the PCR, and above all, appearing confident and in control. It is therefore a combination of coordination and presentation.
There are mainly two kinds of anchoring, namely news anchoring and programme anchoring. Of these, programme anchoring is more challenging as it is more creative and the anchor cannot always fallback upon a script.
9.1. PRINCIPLES FOR EFFECTIVE ANCHORING OF SHOWS
The following principles need to be kept in mind for effective anchoring of programmes.
1. The choice of anchor must be dictated by the nature of the programme. If the programme is a serious discussion-based show, then the anchor must preferably be someone senior and experienced and someone who can handle a discussion with experts. For example, in apolitical discussion-based
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TV Journalism & Programme Formats
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programme, an anchor like Vikram Chandra of NDTV or Rajdeep Sardesai of CNN-IBN is among the best choices. On the other hand, if it is a light,
entertainment-oriented show, then someone younger with a pleasing,
attractive personality is preferable. The anchor must not just be someone who is good-looking but must be knowledgeable about the subject of the show. This applies even to light,
entertainment-based shows. The anchor must do his or her research on the subject of the show beforehand. This is important, because the anchor is supposed to lead the discussion. A thorough command over language, vocabulary, and word-usage is absolutely essential for an anchor, since anchoring is a profession, which involves extensive speaking. Similarly, clear enunciation and good pronunciation is indispensable for an anchor. A good anchor therefore regularly practices voice and pronunciation exercises, to develop his or her ability to speak clearly, with the right emphasis and to project one’s voice if needed. A good voice and a pleasing personality are valuable assets for an anchor. An anchor must be confident and have great presence of mind. He or she must not suffer from stage fright and must be able to pay attention to several things at the same time. These include the remarks made by the audience,
the instructions sent from the PCR which the anchor can hear through an earpiece) and the content and flow of the discussion. The anchor must recognize that for all practical purposes, he or she is a public figure and the face of the organization he/she works for. The anchor must therefore refrain from any activity, public or private, which can bring the organization into disrepute.

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