Research for Media Production, 2nd Edition

Using archive material

Although information and people remain the bedrock of all news and documentary programmes, there is a limit to the number of talking heads the viewer or listener will endure. Television requires a variety of visual elements to sustain interest. The maxim here is show rather than tell, so as well as archive footage, think about graphics and objects. Radio has to rely on audio material to achieve its effects. Although sound is often low on the list of considerations in television, it can enhance a production considerably.

The audience may need to see, or hear, an event or situation rather than have it described to them. Archive footage of, for example, an event in the past will add to understanding of the event – remember ...