Individual Video Journalism Contest Judging Criteria

Individual Video Journalism Contest Judging Criteria
Listed below are the criteria that the judges use when they are judging.
Before you send something in to be judged, check to make sure that
it fits into these categories. Click here to go to the contest page where you can download the materials you need for the entering the contest.

Judging Criteria

INDIVIDUAL VIDEO RUBRICS FOR ALL CATEGORIES EXCEPT 14-18 (AIRCHECKS)
AUDIO
Is it clear? Is there any audio distortion?  Was the appropriate mic used?  Is the mic properly placed?  Is there a “popping” sound from the reporter?  Does the audio fit the action/pace of the video?  Is the volume consistent?
VIDEO
Is there obvious use of a tripod or is the video shaky?  If no tripod was used, was it appropriate to shoot handheld?  Is the color consistent?  Have the shots been white-balanced?  Are there different angles for a variety of shots?  Are the shots framed well without cutting out important information?  Do the shots have good lighting?   Do shots “cross the line/axis”?
EDITING
Is there an overuse of transitions?  Does the piece have a good pace & flow?  Are there any errors in continuity and/or screen direction?  Are there any lagging lulls and/or jump cuts?  Are any of your shots/scenes unnecessary?
GRAPHICS/CG (if any)
Is the text a good size, good color, and within the safe title area?  Does the text appear long enough for the audience to read?  Does the graphic(s) have any spelling/grammar errors?  Are graphics/chromakeys clean?
CATEGORY SPECIFIC
These category-specific items will be posted soon.
AUTOMATIC DISQUALIFICATIONS:
If the video does not meet the specific time requirement (such as the 30/45/60s rule for PSAs & Commercials) (not including any black/slates before or after the video itself).
If the video does not meet the category description.
If the video includes copyrighted music.
INDIVIDUAL VIDEO RUBRICS FOR AIRCHECKS (Categories 14-18)
*Judges will assume the clips you include are your BEST.*
RATE OF SPEECH (Do you talk too fast/slow?)
COMMUNICATION OF IDEAS (Do we understand what you’re talking about?)
COMMUNICATION OF EMOTION (Do you use voice fluctuation?  Do you have emotion in your voice?  Are you monotone?)
MIC WEAKNESS (Is your microphone too close or too far?  Do we hear the sound of your paper script?)
SINCERITY (Do you come across as being genuine?)
NATURALNESS (Do we enjoy listening to you?  Does it sound like you know what you’re doing?)
CREDIBILITY (Does it sound like YOU know what you’re talking about?  Do you give credit to any sources that might be applicable?)
PROFESSIONAL ATTIRE (Are you dressed appropriately?  Tuxedos and prom dresses aren’t necessary, but t-shirts and jeans aren’t appropriate either.)
OVERALL IMPRESSION
AUTOMATIC DISQUALIFICATIONS:
If the video does not meet the specific time requirement (such as the 30/45/60s rule for PSAs & Commercials) (not including any black/slates before or after the video itself).
If the video does not meet the category description.
If the video includes copyrighted music.