Route 02

Maine Public Broadcasting    Bangor, Maine

clip run time » 5:54

Maine Public Television wanted to produce a political feature that expressed the opinions of citizens throughout the state. They landed upon the idea of driving around Maine in a pickup truck, on the symbolic Route 02 for this election year. On the way they talked with people about their concerns and hopes for the coming election, and what they expect of their political leadership. In this clip, Don Carrigan talks with two folks from the town of Dexter, after the eponymous shoe company closed and left many unemployed.

[ more Route 02 stories ]

Tips and Lessons from Route 02

contributed by Don Carrigan, Maine PBS

Have a clear idea what your story is. If you go fishing, you dont always catch anything. Your interview subjects will be better able to react if you are clear about what youre after.

Do your research. Know as much as you can about the place or issue before you get there. Have the statistics, the background, but be alert to new information or new angles.

People dont always connect elections and candidates to their own real-life problems. Its easy to see particular problems and issues, but not connect them to making decisions as a voter. You may need to lead people there. What do you expect government to do to help this problem? Will this issue be on your mind at election time?

Many people dont distinguish between local, state and federal government. Be aware of this as you focus your story. But also remember that many issues have aspects that touch all levels of government, just in different ways.

Be willing to ask real people hard questions. Not confrontational, but be willing to push people to think a bit about the issues, and about what they expect of government. Their answers may surprise you.

Find strong characters to tell your story. This is something we all know, but too often forget. Find interesting, real people. Avoid officials when you can. When you cant, find ways to make them look and sound less official.

Keep your camera active. Let your camera move during the interviews, try different angles and approaches. This requires the videographer to listen to what people are saying. And look for unusual ways to see the place youre covering.

Dont be reluctant to re-ask. Ask questions more than once if you havent gotten a good answer. Ask the same question in different places.

Learn a little history. Even if you dont use it, theres a good chance it will help your story telling.

Enjoy the chance to tell the story. Viewers really like to see officials put on the spot. But they also like to hear real people share their stories and their opinions. Enjoy the opportunity to do both.

Have a MacGyver handy. It always helps to have an inventive videographer. If you have one, treasure him or her. If you dont, encourage it.

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