Going out to cover a story can often involve more than you anticipate-a change in the story, a source not showing up, the P.R. people hassling you away from what you need. One thing I have found especially important in being prepared is always stocking your camera bag with a few essentials.
First (this tip I would assume applies to women primarily) do not bring a purse or extra bag with you. If you are on a shoot by yourself, it can be a challenge to simply carry around your tripod and camera case let alone another bag. The juggling is not worth it. There is room in the zippered pocket of the bag plenty big for everything you will need. Also, you will feel the need to keep an eye on your purse while out on the story, taking you away from your work.
Always make sure you have proper ID. I carry my Senate/House press pass in the plastic case around my neck along with my Smart trip card. It is always good to have an official ID to be transparent and identify yourself, even if you aren’t going to Capitol Hill. And if you are, you will need it. Make sure you have a driver’s license or proper state ID as well. Many official buildings require one to enter, or as proof you are who you say on the registration list.
Bring business cards with you as well. It is always good to give them out to sources so they can contact you. This also encourages them to give you theirs. It keeps you in touch with them, and then you typically have their name and title spelled correctly in case you have a problem with your audio while interviewing them. It is also a good idea to give them out to P.R. people or people in an official capacity and let them know you are open to getting news tips. You never know when someone might call you with a tip because they have your card and know your name.
Make sure you always have your phone with you. This may seem like a no-brainer in a day when most of us consider our phones to be an appendage, but people forget. You want to be able to double check an address or call ahead to tell someone you are late. It also allows your newsroom to get in touch with you if they need to.
Another important addition in Washington is cash for cab fare. D.C. cabs in my experience do not take credit or debit cards. If you end up needing to get somewhere in a hurry, or you need to get back in a hurry to file because the shoot ran long, you may want to hop a cab. Keep the number to a few cab companies in your phone as well. And remember, the rules are different going between D.C., Maryland and Virginia. Some cab drivers won’t. Always ask.
For the women, bring some lipstick. When it comes time to do your standup, inevitably you have chewed itoff or what’s left from the morning is on your Starbucks cup. Throw some on quickly before your standup and you will probably feel more camera ready,too. That being said, no bright bright colors. I’m talking about natural shades that look natural on you. And of course this is different for everyone.
Sometimes I also like to throw a granola bar in my bag if I know I won’t get a chance to stop for lunch or awhile. A quick source of energy that won’t make a lot of mess and can be eaten quickly.
And never forget the most obvious essential, a pen and notepad. The paper can double as something to white-balance off of and you will be all set to take some notes on your story!
Above all, make sure your camera and tripod are working and you have batteries and your P2 card!! Without that, you just can’t do your story. Happy storytelling!
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Melissa Benson is a broadcast reporter for the Medill News Service in Washington covering National Security. She will graduate Medill in June with her MSJ.