The topics covered were:
– Embracing Mobile Journalism equipment, with an introduction to the essential equipment that can turn a smartphone into a powerful reporting tool. Participants learned about various accessories such as hardware, software, mobile kit, and settings, which enhance video and audio quality.
– Mastering the art of shooting: trainees were engaged in practical sessions, where we got the skills in shot types, shot sizes, angles, framing, interviews, vertical and horizontal, and composition skills. Exploring the importance of stories through visuals and how a well-composed shot can convey a narrative that resonates with audiences.
– No great story is complete without good sound and lighting: the teaching enlightened about the significance of natural light, and music, and how to manipulate the background to achieve the best possible results.
– The attendees explored the role of Mobile Journalists in today's media landscape, reflecting on how MoJo offers a democratic approach to news reporting, enabling individuals from all walks of life to share their stories on local and global scales.
– Editing and post-production are elements of importance, with the most preferable tool Cap Cut; which has techniques like cutting clips, adding transitions, and enhancing audio, empowering to polish raw footage into captivating stories. Capturing moments in taking pictures and creating reels engaging for social media platforms was a skill to capture. The session focused on the power of visuals in the digital age and how to engage viewers quickly through concise storytelling.
– The workshop concluded with an in-depth look at publishing content effectively exploring various platforms to share, targeted groups, being digital missionaries, use of AI in content creation, and Canva.
In conclusion, the Mobile Journalism course was more than just a learning experience; it was a journey of empowerment. In this vast technological world, the Salesians are called for young people, so it is appropriate for them to be equipped with practical skills and creative inspiration to transform the lives of the youths authentically as they have immersed themselves deeply into social media. It is a time to embrace this era, approach it with an open mind, and not be afraid of evangelizing to the young on digital platforms.
As the digital world continues to grow, the techniques learned will undoubtedly enable us to be effective for the mission. With the success of the workshop, Salesians in Tanzania are poised to continue fostering a culture of creativity, and innovation. Special regards to the organizers of the workshop: the Sector of Social Communication at the Congregation level, “St. Artemides Zatti” TZA Province, and the passionate mobile journalist’s trainers Miss Aleksandra Stankiewicz and Fr. Maciej Makula, SDB.
By Cl. Eric N. Mbogo, SDB,
Don Bosco Moshi, Tanzania
https://www.infoans.org/en/component/k2/item/22681#sigProIdf6ab55b124