The clicking of cameras, the shouts and jostling of fellow photographers for that exclusive shot, the free booze and the frenetic energy that encompasses all who surround you – it seems glamorous but it is all in aid of capturing a few words, a decent pic and exclusive titbit to put your name out there or at the very least deliver on your brief. Many of my friends and family believe my life is just one big cocktail party. My mom still thinks all I do is attend events.
Flow’s clients cover a broad range of topics from all sectors, but what exactly does it take to cover a major event? And how do Flowstars do it so effortlessly?
Says Cape Town-based media developer and journalist Ingrid Sinclair: “Covering events is definitely a highlight of the job. From swanky advertising awards ceremonies to serious lectures that draw the world’s top thought leaders, product launches, conferences and expos, working for Flow means you get to be at heart of the action all the time.
“It also means that, as a journalist, you can practise your multimedia skills. Photography, interviews and overall impressions are always required when you cover events – it’s a tough job but an incredible experience.”
Research
Any journalist worth their salt knows that the key to great content is sufficient research. The same applies to attending an event. You simply cannot pitch up and hope that everything will be handed to you on a plate. Finding out about the event, the venue, the topic, the speakers or even the sponsors can provide valuable insight into the purpose of the event and can shape the angle of your article. When you have a decided approach, the work is easier.
Be prepared
There’s nothing worse than showing up to an event empty handed. Always carry your own notebook and pen. Ensure your camera has fully charged batteries and take a spare set of batteries in case you need video footage.
Teamwork
For larger events, with a variety of programmes taking place over days or at different times, it is advisable to have a competent and dedicated team. You cannot cover everything on your own. Make sure that you delegate tasks and responsibilities that play to each team member’s strengths.
Immediacy
One of the strengths of Flowstars is the time in which they take to produce content. We aim to have everything published as soon as possible, the sooner the better to capitalise on the relevance of the event. The reader does not want stale news and with the immediacy and real-time reporting of networks such as Twitter, ensuring that your voice is heard amongst the thousands of others is not only dependent on what you say but when you say it.
Build-up
Create anticipation for the event and also create a following. Tweet, Facebook, advertise everything. Engage with other attendees – writing a preview blog is a great way to create a buzz around an event and also a way to ensure your reader comes back to read the conclusion.
Connect
Events are great for networking. Pack business cards, introduce yourself and make sure that by the time you leave you have made at least one new contact. This will not only pave the way for future event invitations but also helps establish your credibility as a serious content creator.
Have fun
Although it is essentially work, it does not mean you are not allowed to enjoy the event. And once the content is filed and published you can let loose, congratulate yourself and your team on a job well done and rue the hangover in the morning.
