Close enough for government work. It’s a funny line, but not a great attitude.
As a government video professional, it can be a challenge to find inspiration in some of the mundane assignments. Believe me, I understand — I used
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MARK J.PESCATORE
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to shoot city commission meetings. Not a lot of room for creative freedom.
I would bring in a single camera, setup in a small area off to the side, and cover the proceedings by panning between the members of the commission on their dais and members of the public who would speak at a separate lectern. It wasn’t exciting television, but it was in focus and camera moves were smooth. I made the best out of a bad shooting situation.
Your department might have legitimate technological and staffing limitations. Some of you are still stuck with outdated S-VHS or Hi-8 formats. For others, your remote production truck is the trunk of your car. And while everyone else seems to be going HD, it’s not even a consideration for your budget for the foreseeable future.
So what?
You can design slides on your community calendar that are visually pleasing and easy to read. You can avoid jump cuts or other on-air errors. You can maintain a professional appearance and positive attitude when you’re on location in the community you serve and represent. Or you can find another job. Do your best with the tools you have. Try to make the routine assignments more dynamic (or at least technically sound). Produce with pride — don’t let the “government video” label serve as an excuse for a lack of professionalism or creativity.
This is my final issue as editor of GOVERNMENT VIDEO. Starting next month, Sanjay Talwani, a colleague from sister publication TV Technology, will take over as editor. He's covered the video industry for years, so you’re in good hands.
Over the past nine years, through this magazine and the annual Government Video Technology Expo, I’ve been fortunate to meet video professionals from the military, law enforcement, state and local governments, you name it. It’s been quite an adventure — I’ve been at NASA for a space shuttle launch, learned to shoot (guns, not video) at the FBI Academy, and even visited the White House.
Throughout my tenure, my appreciation has continued to grow for those of you in the public service providing information, education, and entertainment through video. I sincerely hope my team and I have effectively shared your stories in these pages.
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