A blog for the fall 2010 editing & production class (JOUR 3510) at the University of Georgia's Grady College of Journalism and Mass Communication.
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
Zack's Terrible Cover Design
Friday, November 12, 2010
Rebecca Burns EC Blog Post
Dear Rebecca,
Your brave foray into the digital world gives me hope and inspiration. To go from Editor-in-Chief to Director of Digital Strategy at Emmis Publishing is quite an impressive jump, and if a self-proclaimed technological novice can do it with great success then I have no excuses. Your choice to take an eighty percent pay cut was noble. I hope that someday I will be at a place in my life where I can make that kind of choice for a job that I truly love. I admire your pioneering position; being the first to really push for the improvement of Atlanta Magazine and Emmis Publishing's web presence, all the while discovering your love of history and writing three books.
As a magazine major I've been yearning for some greater insight into the world of magazines and you gave me a charm through your presentation. Just to see the evolution of magazines in this century was riveting. The possibilities that new technologies such as Zinio have created for the magazine industry makes me excited about my career choice. As you mentioned, " the iPad changed the whole dynamic. Cost of paper became a non-issue and content space is no longer limited." This is perfect for a writer such as myself, who somehow always manages to write the maximum and then some. Seeing the Zinio edition of National Geographic on your iPad was exquisite and has converted me from my 'pfff, iPad' position to 'OMG, iPad!'. I could not agree more with your statement, " Photography on the iPad is crisp and lush." Now how does a broke college student get their hands on of those beauties?
I would like to thank you, not only for taking time out of your schedule to visit us at UGA, but for being a pioneer in this technological age and paving the way for rising journalists like me. And if you're ever in need of a co-Director of Digital Strategy you know where to find me.
Sincerely,
Natalee Cooper
'Everyone needs to be a bit geeky'
Rebecca Burns jokes she can't even properly program her iPod but displays with her title as director of digital strategy for Emmis publishing that as future journalists, having an ability to embrace the evolution of journalism with diverse skill sets is what will give us an edge after graduation.
"The old jobs don't exist," said Burns. "You certainly don't find someone who is just a copy editor or just a features editor anymore."
Though the bulk of Burns' presentation on Tues., November 9 was not about being a competitive graduate, the few soon-t0-be-graduates in the room understandably centered their questions around asking questions that pertained to just that.
In answer to those questions, Burns' discussion helped to point out an important aspect of the future of journalism.
Perhaps the most important is that journalism is becoming more and more diverse and consequently calls for people who are okay with embracing and anticipating constant change.
As many journalists do, Burns began as a freelancer. Not without precious blood, sweat and tears, Burns landed her dream position as editor in chief of Atlanta magazine in 2002. Though Burns thought her position would be the end of her career road, she has since acquired the titles like author, interactive director, director of digital strategy and mom.
If the college seniors there, myself included, learned anything, it was to be journalistically diverse.
Here are a few things Burns suggested for those about to graduate:
- The old jobs aren’t out there-but new jobs are developing
- You have to be even more willing to juggle tasks and master a variety of skills
- Writers need to think about design-designers need to think about storytelling –everyone needs to be a bit geeky.
Monday, October 25, 2010
Dream a Little Dream of Me, Mr. Pitt
It all started a long time ago. For some reason, I found myself "mildly" entranced by Brad Pitt's personage as a wee lad. I think it was Legends of the Fall what did it to me. Anyway, since then, I've felt a kinship with the Rich and the Famous that is undeniable. For example, I've shaken hands with Juliette Lewis, one of Brad's past flames, and it was terrifically awesome. I realize that some or all this may sound wonderfully creepy, but bear with me, folks.
Putting my good Grady degree to work, I would like to pursue a career in celebrity journalism. No, not like that trash bag Perez Hilton -- he brings more drama than Shakespeare. What I'm talking about is the good old-fashioned people working. I adore an intimate setting with two people being as candid as professionally possible. One of the things missing in celebrity today is true star power, like back in the old days. Teens are fawning over the likes of Justin Bieber and inquiring as to what exactly has been up Ms. Lohan's nose lately. Who cares!
We need more Marilyn Monroes, more James Deans, more Sidney Poitiers. True stars are classy, dammit, even when they're reckless. Brad Pitt does that for me.
To capture this more purist sense of celebrity, I would need to isolate a truly thinking audience. I would aim at fans who are interested in every aspect of production that goes into a movie. Sure, some may say that I would be speaking to the elitist members of film society, but if you can tell me who directed, starred in and wrote the musical score for Punch Drunk Love, then you are closer to appreciating the art that is film.
One publication that I feel hits pretty close to who celebrities are as people --and what makes them stars -- is PARADE magazine. They really do a good job of getting great exclusive features. Sure, there's some gossip involved, but I'd say on the whole that they are pretty respected within the industry.
One story I'd run would be this piece on Francis Ford Coppola. It paints a nice picture of the infamous director's choices made over the years, and is relevant because of the release of Apocalypse Now on blu-ray. Pretty high profile if you ask me. I've always respected Mr. Coppola's work, even though I've heard he's quite the drama queen himself. But, dammit, he knows how to direct a film, and has produced many a classic over the years. Good feature for my dream publication.
Who doesn't like George Clooney? Okay, don't answer that. I would run this particular article because I liked the movie, and it showcases the multitasking abilities of truly talented people in film. GQ magazine is pretty classy, and this gem of a story lets you see inside the mind of one of Hollywood's giants.
Who would have thought that IGN would have ever gotten an interview with the greatness himself, Brad Pitt? Sure, this article ran several years ago, but it'd go straight into my publication because it shows a Pitt that is pre-Jolie, but just barely. Kind of like right before a volcano explodes. Plus, it's just great that a site that I've been visiting for years, IGN, got an interview with Mr. Pitt. Gives me hope that I could get one for my publication as well.
This isn't exactly an article, but I would maim and slaughter for the rights to reprint this little gem in my dream publication. It's Audrey Hepburn talking about gardens, for crying out loud! I genuinely love this woman, and wish she were still alive today. Too, too sad. But I think there could be a place in my publication that would revisit classic interviews with Stars of the past to show these up and coming youngsters how to really do it.
The last article I have chosen exemplifies a different side of the business, one where you take someone from a whole 'nother universe and transplant them into stardom. Who am I talking about? Why, Mos Def, of course. This guy's a real class act. From rhymes and music to acting up a storm, Mos Def performs brilliantly in any area he chooses to shine. Do yourself a favor and read this SPIN article. Makes me like the man even more! He's a real guy, after all.
My Dream Job
The first article I would run would be this article on vintage style. It's from the SL website, and the couple whose home is being shown is from Athens...how cool is that? Feature articles like this would be things I would be responsible for as a feature photographer. I would travel to the location alongside a writer and put together a story to submit to the editor who makes the executive decision on whether or not to run it in the magazine.
A few years ago National Geographic included "ZIPUSA" in each edition. Basically, they would randomly choose a zipcode within the United States, send a writer and photographer, and do a two to three page story profiling the town. I would love to bring this concept to Southern Living, but narrow down the area, of course, to only the southern portion of the United States. They do highlight southern towns regularly, but I'd love to make it a monthly feature that people look forward to and flip to first.
Another aspect I would like to include in the magazine would be a monthly blogger's column. It doesn't have to be the same blogger each month, just an interesting, opinionated column outline great food, travel, and cultural stories from the South. There's not really a specific link I could include here....
I would consider running this article, also, pertaining to kid-friendly foods. As boring as it sounds to some, I wouldn't mind photographing food for the magazine on occasion. I think this article would appeal to both middle-age and elderly women and help them cook food that their kids/grandkids will enjoy. I would definitely add a 'southern twist' to it before putting it in SL, though.
Finally, I would run this article from the SL website, especially this time of year. It concerns the best plants for the fall season. I would run this because I think it would appeal to the male readers, also.
Target audience/future job
A magazine here in Atlanta called Jezebel would be a good fit for me. I think the target audience is probably upper-middle class to upper-class women age 25-plus.
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Here are five recent publications of theirs I would probably choose to run for my target audience:
1)An October article called In session with Sheryl. It's a feature about Sheryl Crow that dives into her musical accomplishments along with her family life and battle against Cancer. (Especially since it's National Breast Cancer Awareness Month) http://www.jezebelmagazine.com/ArticleView.aspx?article=26308e16-9b5b-40df-92ab-43680233c81a
2)The next article I would include is from an April issue and the article is called Into the Light. http://www.jezebelmagazine.com/ArticleView.aspx?article=473e2043-0243-4590-91a8-8d073a5b67f5. This article is look into the band The Whigs - from Athens. I think adding a musical feature will probably draw some of the younger readers (18-30) and it's a great locally-based article too.
3)I would definitely add this travel article on Italy. http://www.jezebelmagazine.com/ArticleView.aspx?article=9c78ff28-c981-4c85-a44b-2783b6a0ba02. This would be something some of the older and upper-class women would be interested in reading and it's a great chance to run amazing photos.
4)The next piece I would run is called Superman. http://www.jezebelmagazine.com/ArticleView.aspx?article=6b6d0cb7-c825-448a-80e1-67125dda0fbf. This article would kill two birds with one stone. It's a feature on a local chef - who is a man. I think this would appeal to the upper-class also with the shop being a quaint sandwich shop in Poncey-Highland. It may also interest foodies and other chefs.
5) The last article I would run is called Up in Smoke and focuses on the hottest fashion trends for fall. http://www.jezebelmagazine.com/ArticleView.aspx?article=0bde38bd-6f8c-4281-b2fe-51875c3606b0. Almost all women are interested in that and are always looking for new ideas. The article also turns some attention on make-up trends - not just clothing.
Targeting Travel + Leisure
My target publication is Travel + Leisure magazine. The target audience for this magazine is middle to upper class Americans ranging in age from mid-twenties to late sixties.
I would definitely run the World's Best Hotels 2010 article. This is a great highlight to what the magazine is all about, traveling to all corners of the world with some insight from fellow travelers. This article's insight comes in the form of a summation of the best hotels around the globe, whether they be noted for their fair pricing or their extreme extravagance. What I particularly liked about this piece is that the list, which is comprised of 100 hotels total, has been chosen by the magazines readers.
Another piece I would run online isn't a written story but a photo contest. The visuals in this kind of article would be a wonderful draw to regular readers and would also be a great way to catch the eyes of potential new readers. I think this also another innovative way to get the readers involved and invested in the magazine. The photo contest is a way to let the voice and artistry of the readers to be heard and seen. I feel it's a necessity for a publication like Travel + Leisure to have visual elements, and to do that in such a way where readers get to share a personal story and experience through their own photos is a seemless fit.
There is currently a story titled "Best Life Changing Trips" on T+L's website. It's a story I was particularly drawn to and would choose to run in the online publication. The article is actually not fueled by past personal experiences that have already changed peoples lives as I assumed, rather, it outlines 22 detailed trips designed by T+L's top operators. The article is succinct and inspiring. While it kind of works as an ad for the 22 'life changing' trips, it stirs the reader's ambition to do something unique and adventurous in their life. While not all can just jump on a plane to Antarctica, the research that made this compilation possible makes it easier for those who feel that time in their life approaching and gives inspiration to those who will seek it in their future.
The last story I would run is titled "Chef Vikas Khanna Asks, What Connects Food and Faith?" I like this story because it provides some depth to the magazine; it expands the topics T+L covers. It's an intriguing piece because many people relish in watching the food channel, many people feel food is important in their lives, as well as religion, but I have never come across a story or a person who has linked the importance of food to religion. The article is about a Sikh chef and delves into the some of the inspiration and ideas tied to the article title. But the piece also serves as an introduction to a film series called "Holy Kitchens", in which Vikas will explore the relationship between food and religion.
Vanity Fair: Where Style Meets Substance
Like Taylor, I hope to work for a book publishing house one day. I also write children's stories on the side. If I were to work in the journalism industry, however, my publication of choice would be Vanity Fair. Growing up I loved flipping through my mom's issues of Vanity Fair and looking at the striking photography of current and deceased public figures. As an adult reader, I appreciate the magazine's in-depth reporting and its coverage of more serious issues than other high-end culture magazine's like Vogue. I think the magazine expertly balances stylish design with pertinent social commentary.
Dream Job
The first story I would publish as editor of the Sports Business Journal would be their feature article from this week's issue, "He's all in". The article profiles Michael Jordan's in his new role as Owner of the Charlotte Bobcats. It is an interesting story since you get to see the day-to-day agenda of a NBA owner. It also profiles a important public figure/celebrity, who people are interested in. This story allows for people to get an idea of how he interacts with others within the Bobcats organization.
The second story I would publish is this story from the SBJ about the American Airlines Center in Dallas opening an after hours club for fans to attend after home games and other events at the arena. This article is important because it informs readers about new trends in the sports industry and what owners are doing to maximize profits.
In addition to providing coverage of the developing trends within the sports industry, I would also publish articles concerning news among the organizations. This article about ESPN calling meetings with Chase about low tv ratings for NASCAR coverage is an example of up to date news coverage. The article is much like one would you find in a business section of a newspaper, but instead directly applies to the sports world.
In addition to these SBJ articles, I would also provides columnists. The purpose of their stories would be to publish commentary to draw reader interest. One example would be from ESPN columnist Rick Reilly. He is known for his distinct writing style and establishes a personality
for the publication. A writer with a personality has the ability to draw a loyal audience and increase readership and awareness for the publication.
I would also use columns to provide commentary on polarizing issues within the industry. For example, this article by ESPN's Pat Forde discusses the topic of a college football playoff and elimination of the computer-based BCS ranking system. This is a popular subject that most sports fans have an opinion on, but Forde goes on to outline a new formating of teams in division-I college football that calls for the elimination of conferences. His story creates a unique idea, but one that would also stir up controversy. Articles like these stir up lots of readers comments/discussion, and thus, driving more traffic to the web page and/or publication.
Dream Job: Random House? NYTimes? USA Today?
Sunday, October 24, 2010
My Dream Job: The New York Times
Target Publication
I picked National Geographic as my target publication. National Geographic reaches a worldwide audience – according to Wikipedia, it is published in over 32 different languages and has a worldwide circulation of nearly 9 million. Since National Geographic’s audience is so broad, the magazine covers a wide variety of stories from areas all over the world. It’s tagline when you visit its website is, “inspiring people to care about the planet since 1888.” It publishes stories about so many different global topics, including the environment and conservation issues, different cultures and groups of people around the world, conflicts between cultures and countries, and new scientific research.
So, since National Geographic’s audience is so wide, I have to choose articles that are applicable to audiences around the world. Also, since the magazine is only released once a month, many of the stories I choose need to be detailed enough to be able to run as a feature story that a reporter might work on for several months before it is published.The first story I would choose is one I found on NPR about American politics and climate change policy. Since climate change is something that affects the entire world, and since the policies that America puts into place will set an example for other countries, I think this is an important and interesting story to run. It can also easily be expanded upon by going into more detail about other countries’ environmental policies.
The next story I would run would be this one I found on the New York Times about the outbreak of cholera in Haiti. Since the earthquake in Haiti was international news last year, I think this story would resonate with a worldwide audience. To expand on the story, I think National Geographic could look into where all the money and aid that was sent to Haiti after the earthquake went, and why the country is still in such a state of disrepair.
The third story I would choose to run would be this story form BBC News about India and Brazil’s plans to incorporate the economic value of nature into their policies. I think this story is really interesting, because I just read an article for my ecology class that talked about the different reasons people have for wanting to protect the environment. The article did not talk about the economic value of the environment, and I think this is a new and interesting concept that will be interesting to people around the world.
The fourth story is kind of cheating, since National Geographic ran it in its last issue. The issue’s cover story was on the Gulf oil spill, and the magazine offered a couple feature stories on the spill and how it affected the people, environment, animals and the economy of the areas it reached. The articles were really powerful and shed a lot of light on policies in place for the oil companies and what they have done in the past to get around them. The oil spill was a huge environmental disaster and received international coverage, so I think it is something the world needed to know about.
For my fifth story, I would choose to run this article from Time Magazine about the migration of humpback whales. I think this would be a cool short story to run in National Geographic, especially since the National Geographic Channel is premiering the Great Migrations series soon. Actually, I think this month’s National Geographic’s cover story is about migrations, but I haven’t gotten it yet. So maybe the humpback whale is included!
"Understanding comes with TIME"
TIME magazine’s target audience, like its content as a news magazine ought to be, is wide. It targets a variety of demographics and psychographics. While many would say TIME has a liberal lean, it theoretically targets anyone who wants to read the news (these people fall into their own demographic and psycho graphic categories).
I think the following articles were accurately and strategically placed to achieve TIME’s mission:
TIME’s story on bullying follows TIME’s mission by addressing the overarching topic of bullying, relevant to kids and parents alike, while covering the hard news story of the recent suicides of three teenage boys.
A future in magazines
Target audience: The chic, smart, independent woman age 18-49 with a median household income of $82,104. About 75% of readers have attended college and are currently employed.
Sample stories:
The short story about the opening of the new Ralph Lauren store in NYC would be included in my magazine because it’s a short, easy read that, with the help of several great photos of the store, will draw in a variety of readers. A story such as a lavish store opening is generic enough for everyone, yet interesting enough for the woman that ideally fits the target audience.
A reflection story about the legacy Alexander McQueen left behind when he passed away earlier this year will work well with the true followers of the fashion world. Also, the emotional aspect of the story will capture the casual reader as well by mildly pulling on a heart string. Nothing sells better than a dead celebrity.
How-to articles are incredibly popular. I would probably put this article on the cover of the magazine, possibly in an issue devoted entirely to being ecological. A 21-day challenge will entice those who strive to be more ecological, and those who have less of an interest in the subject may read the article just to see what “challenges” the article presents to readers.
This article would work perfectly in an autumn issue for the “Living” section of the magazine. Tasty treats for the fall months appeal to readers’ taste buds, and luscious photographs make for a visually attractive page. Food and drink is a must for a magazine, adding a little spice that varies from the fashion pages.
A “Women in Power List” would definitely appeal to readers of the magazine, especially since the target audience is described as “chic, smart, and independent.” The women in the list would embody the target reader, providing the reader with someone well-known who they can relate to, making them feel confident. A feature piece that makes celebrities lives seem more real and down-to-earth will attract many readers from all walks of life. This would probably make the cover as well.
Rolling Stone
My publication of choice is easy - Rolling Stone.
What other magazine focuses on the in's and out's of the music industry, highlighting mainstream and indie alike, while also offering coverage on television, movies, politics and current events?
Unlike newspapers though, which strive to be unbiased, Rolling Stone is rather liberal - and it shows in their choice of articles. Obama has been featured on the front cover upwards of 5 times in the last couple of years.
Just this last month there was an extensive article tearing apart the Tea Party.
The target audience for Rolling Stone is tricky, since you have long time subscribers and new fans both expecting different things. In recent years, RS has become increasing political. Likewise, the rise of the television super powers has put an increased demand on reality shows, like American Idol.
If you write too much about music, then they have eliminated 50% of their audience. However, if music isn't the central point, they've lost the long time subscribers.
Additionally, the type of music covered gets hazy. Music magazines like Alternative Press have a niche - they write about less mainstream/punk rock/emo music. There is only a couple pages in the whole issue dedicated to movies and tv.
Here are five articles I would pick to appeal to my audience, assuming I'm in charge of RS.
(1) The Case for Obama, by Tim Dickinson (Rollingstone)
I really enjoyed this article in the last issue. It's very well written and insightful, and shows the power RS has in the magazine community - the interview was conducted in the Oval Office. Yes, it is a music magazine, but I think this story is important in hearing from Obama's mouth what he sees to be the issues.
(2) Good Charlotte album review (Spin)
(3) 40 Watt Venue profile (Red & Black)
(4) Music Notes (Red & Black) -
I really like what this has brought to the R&B the last two weeks. Athens is a culture of music, and Music Notes by Chris Miller highlights every show coming up, and feature small profiles on lesser known bands. I think RS would benefit from running in their issues what bands are going on tour and when.
(5) Portugal. The Man profile
My favorite part of music magazines are their band/artist profiles. I don't just want to know who is playing Saturday - I want to know the little things about them. I felt this article shined a light into how Portugal.The Man escalated from just a bnuch of kids in a music starved rural Alaskan town.
Tuesday, October 19, 2010
Mi photo favorito
Favorite photo
Shawn is in Love
Photoshopping
This is the favorite photo that I took. I like it because the only clear person in the foreground is ZT. I think it says something metaphorical about youth, beauty and charisma. Allie being in the background is an added bonus, plus I like the scale of colors made sharp by Photoshop.
I like scale in the photo, too, and the levels of the picture are great. Go me, Shawn. Thank you for taking such a great photo of your classmate. I'm sure he appreciates it. A lot.
Monday, October 18, 2010
My Favorite Photograph
I think the photo was well composed, and Patrick was framed within the concrete walls. The background was not too busy due to his placement in front of the bushes. I think it was a simple photograph, but definitely showed a sense of space.
Photo project
My favorite photo from project
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Favorite Photo
This portrait is my favorite photo of Katie. I like the way she is pictured in the last third of the photograph, making for a more interesting design element than if she were in the middle. I love the background color, and the neutral grey and white in her apparel is a good complement for the deep eggplant. I also like how the emotion on her face is almost a half smile, half serious, and the way you can see her profile, while still seeing a little bit of the other side of her face. Maybe it's because I'm not a huge fan of my own profile, but I really dislike profile pictures when all you can see is one side of the person’s face. The photo is simple and natural, which I believe are a few of the most important elements in a photograph.
Sunday, October 17, 2010
Favorite Photo
Favorite Photos
Natalee's Favorite Photo
Monday, October 4, 2010
Photojournalism
This picture showed up today on BBC news (http://www.bbc.co.uk/news) and I thought it was a very interesting shot. I really like the intense action that's shown here. The picture certain helps to tell the story. I also like the composition; I think taking the picture straight on like that gives it an interesting symmetry.
I pulled this photo from Nationalgeographic.com . I love the way that the shallow depth of field pulls you into her eye, but I can't help but think that there is no reason for this image to be in black and white. I think it would have been more powerful in full color.
I actually chose this photo because I really hated it. It was featured on cnn.com today for a story about Verizon. The composition is interesting enough but the picture really doesn't further the story at all or give you any sort of information.
Picture Picture Picture
Along with the celebratory A.J. Green photo below, this photo resembles the other half of the emotional spectrum of Saturday night's loss to Colorado. There's a lot of talk circulating around campus about the future of Mark Richt's job with the Georgia football program, and ever more talk about the repeated arrests of the players. How does the University feel about the program's troubles on and off the field? Instead of reading the numerous articles by The Red & Black, The Athens Banner Herald, The Atlanta Journal Constitution, etc. just take a long look at the photo above. One man, all by himself, visually expressing "F-You." I really like the fact that the man is slightly to the right, with more space given to the left. Since his expression is facing towards the left, it has good direction to it — your eyes scan the picture and see every expression.
Feeling slightly sick to your stomach? Fret not, this is simply a press photo that I received to run with my Netherworld review in today's Red & Black paper. I really like this photo because it serves multiple purposes. You'd never opt to look at a photo that involves bare intestines, blood and guts. However, if you're searching around on Google for a haunted house and find this photo, chances are you'll feel slightly more inclined to drop the $27 it requires to tour both houses at Netherworld. This photo represents more than just an opportunity to gross out a few people — it could be the make it or break it representation of Netherworld.
Photos
http://www.listzblog.com/top_fifty_award_winning_photos_list_page_2.html
Alright, so this is one of the most famous photo's taken of the Vietnam War. It's composition demonstrates, the brutality, the uncaring concern with human life, and the pain and suffering of the countries citizens. The phot was taken at the instant the execution shot was fired. The most amazing thing about the photo, however is that this was never the intent of the photographer. Eddie Adams, the man who took the picture regretted it died. The picture shines a negative light on the man who is doing the shooting, when, in fact, this man was actually the chief of police in South Vietnam. The man being executed was in charge of a Viet Cong death squad responsible for the murder of many men, women and children.
http://minnesota.publicradio.org/collections/special/columns/news_cut/archive/2009/05/one_war_one_image.shtml
Ok, This picture is amazing and for more than just the obvious reasons. Primarily the contrasting colors of the background, her dress, her skin, the test, it all works to make a stricklyingly awesome photo. I also chose the photo because of the controversy surrounding it. This photo is supposed to be of the "Hottest Woman in the World according to other Women." However, it has been reported that it was photo shopped. There is something to be said about the "hottest woman in the world" needing Photoshop.
http://thebosh.com/bfu.php?image_url=http://thebosh.com/upload/2010/04/26/christina_hendricks_esquire_may_2010/Christina%20Hendricks%20Esquire%20Cover.jpg