Logo Concentra Award
VJ storyteller: Ian Barmer, 39
In this Q&A-series, we put video journalists in the spotlight. They are a special breed and, in the spirit of The Concentra Award, we love to hear their fascinating stories. BBC VJ Ian Barmer won the 2006 Concentra Award. Therefore, he is the perfect man to kick off our new 'VJ storyteller'-series!
How much work experience do you have? And how long as a video journalist?
I have worked for the BBC since 1990 - for six years in radio and for the last 10 years in regional television news for BBC Look East. In that time I have worked as a "conventional" TV reporter with a cameraman and have produced news bulletins and programmes. In 2002 I did the BBC "PDP" course with Michael Rosenblum, so have shot and edited my own material for 4 years.
How many video journalists work at your station?
Many people at BBC East have received training in videojournalism, probably 30 or more.
What is the biggest advantage of your work as a video journalist?
The biggest advantage of working as a VJ is the intimacy between you and the subject. I have a lot of experience of working alone and with a camera crew and feel on balance it is easier to make your subject feel at ease when you are working alone. For instance I filmed a mother at her home with two boys who refused to go to school. She was facing prosecution because of her sons' truancy. Both boys were very "difficult" but by myself I was able to make a far more effective film because by myself I wasn't as conspicuous. By the end it was as though they weren't really concerned that I had a camera. I am convinced that the end product would not have been as "real" and would have appeared more staged if a camera crew was there.
Do you encounter problems as a video journalist?
I don't feel I encounter many specific problems. I guess the biggest issue is one of total reponsibility. Everything is down to you. It's only when you film with a camera crew that you realise just how hard videojournalism can be. It can be very physically and mentally tiring and I think everyone has to be careful they don't push themselves too hard. And of course if you don't get the shots you need, you can't blame anyone else!
Tell us about your camera, editing software, ... What effect does your gear have on the story?
I use a Sony HDV-Z1 camera and do most of my editing on Final Cut Pro or Express. The camera is a big step forward from the PD-150 I used for the first three years or so and the results are much better. it is still fairly light and easy to carry around.
Do you use a tripod? Why (not)?
I use a tripod (a Sachtler DV2) for anything where the subject is not moving. I feel basically you owe it to viewers to give them steady, well-framed, wobble-free shots. When I started I didn't use a tripod very much, and looking back I think my work suffered for it. Of course, you always have to go hand-held at some point - and then you must still make sure your shots are as steady as possible.
Do you have an insider tip or trick for fellow video journalists?
Any tips? Always make sure you have enough cut-away shots, as it makes your edit much, much easier. Think about the cut-aways in any sequence you shoot.
Did winning the Concentra Award changed you and/or your work? What reactions did you get after winning the prize?
I had good reactions from BBC colleagues after I won the Concentra Award. Many said it was well-deserved. Because I was recovering from surgery over the summer I have only shot and edited one film since I won the award, but I certainly felt good, and confident when I did it. It's just great to get some recognition for what you do.
Did you compete in other video journalism competitions?
No, I had never competed in any other videojournalism competitions. But this has certainly given me a taste for it.
Final question: Is the statue of Tintin standing on your mantel piece?
As for the Tintin statue, it's actually too big to fit on my mantlepiece. But instead it lives on top of a bookcase...
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