Understanding Framing

How Framing Impacts a Story

I want to highlight the importance of framing the story. When we go into a new story, it’s easy to get caught up in our original opinions and notions of where the story is going to go. This actually limits the possible outcome of your reporting. In these instances, think about perspectives. What perspective do I have going into the story and what perspective will better suit it? 

When we go into a new story, it’s easy to get caught up in our original opinions and notions of where the story is going to go.

For example, if I reported on the construction of the University Village, it can be limiting to only get voices from students. There is a higher chance these voices may find it an amazing addition to USC and, in some cases, not be from Los Angeles and understand the implications this development would have on the community. 

Meanwhile, if you talk to community members residing near USC, it will be a completely different story about gentrification in South L.A. Part of the work is acknowledging biases and having an open mind when you report. You might notice the angle of your story shift and sharpen as you do more research and reporting.

 

 Feel free to run ideas past your editors and coaches during pitch meetings or throughout your shift. They will help assist in finding the language and angle that best represents the story you are interested in pursuing. 

Best, 

Steven Vargas