You’ve done everything right. The media advisory has been sent out. Newsdesks confirmed the event is on their calendar. Talking points are polished. Special guests are picture-perfect. The crowd is buzzing — and then… no cameras show up.  

Whether it’s a breaking news emergency, a short-staffed newsroom, or just unfortunate timing, your perfectly planned moment might not make the cut for local broadcast crews.  

But that doesn’t mean the story has to go untold. 

Our clients do incredible things every single day.  When the media can’t be there, remember: if you want something done right (or done at all), sometimes you have to do it yourself.  

And for me, sometimes that means grabbing my phone and becoming a one-woman camera crew.  

Why DIY B-Roll Works 

• Newsrooms are stretched thin: With fewer reporters and camera operators available, even the most newsworthy events can fall through the cracks. 

• You’re helping the media: By providing clean, usable footage, you’re making it easier for outlets to run your story. (Bonus points if you can include a post-event press release with key quotes attributed to your client or other event special guests.) 

• You’re helping your client: Earned media hits from your footage mean visibility without the cost of paid placements. 

• You’re in control: You get to frame the moment exactly how you want it — no missed shots, no awkward angles. 

Real Wins from Real Footage 

Broadcast news outlets have aired footage that I’ve shot on my iPhone 11. Online publications have used my vertical clips for their video features. Print news has used my stills when needed. 

Technique is important. Below is how to make sure your footage gets on the air.  

Tips & Tricks 

You don’t need a fancy rig or years of training — just a little intention, a steady hand, and a clean lens. (Please wipe off your camera lens before you begin shooting!) 

• Wide, medium, tight: Get a variety of shots to give editors options. Start with a wide establishing shot, then move in. 

• Movement with purpose: Slow pans, zooms, or tracking shots add polish. Walk slowly and steadily or invest in a gimble. (Do your homework and watch local broadcast news to study pacing and framing.) 

• Cutaways and context: Capture logos and signage, audience reactions, close-ups of handshakes or key objects — editors value these shots. 

• Shoot vertically and horizontally: For social and traditional media use. 

Packaging for the Press 

Don’t just send raw footage — make it easy for newsrooms to say yes. 

• Label your clips clearly: In a shared drive, include timestamps, descriptions, names, suggested usage, and a line for credit. (In my case, credit goes to the client I’m representing.)  

• Include a press release: Add key quotes, context, and contact info! 

• Follow up fast: Send the footage on the same day — speed matters. (Call the newsroom to let them know you are sending footage and be sure to ask for a deadline.) 

Bonus: Repurpose for Owned Content 

When you shoot your own footage, you own it – which means you can use it for: 

• Social media posts 

• Website videos 

• Client reels 

• Future pitches 

• Record keeping