FACULTY OF COMMERCE

2023-24

SEMESTER 4

MASS COMMUNICATION & JOURNALISM

(SOFT SKILLS)

: COMPILED BY :
DR. KEYUR VOHRA DR. DHWANI SODHA

DR. BHUMIKA ANSODARIA

DR. HIRAL JANI DR. GITANJALI RAMPAL

Unit No. Topics / Chapters Name
I • Mass communication, media of
mass communication,
characteristics of different mass
media
• Audience, reach and access,
Media systems and theories—
authoritarian, libertarian,
socialistic, social- responsibility,
development, participatory,
hypodermic need theory, need
gratification theory

II • Phases in the development of

human communication
• Early efforts in publishing
newspapers in the country
• Development of Mass Media in
the post-Independence era —
Press, TV, Radio,
Films,Language and regional
media
III Writing for Media

• Press notes
• Press Reports
• Social Media

IV Basics of Photography and Photo

Journalism

• Basics of Professional
Photography
• Photo Journalism and media.
 B. Com SEM IV: Soft Skills
MASS COMMUNICATION AND JOURNALISM

Introduction to Mass Communication:

UNIT I
Mass communication refers to the process of transmitting information, ideas, and messages to
a large, diverse audience through various channels of communication. As the message is
communicated to a very large number of people or to a mass of people, it is called
Mass communication. It involves the creation, production, and distribution of content to reach
a widespread audience, often using media platforms such as television, radio, newspapers,
magazines, the internet, and more.
Mass communication is a broad field that encompasses the production, distribution, and
consumption of information on a large scale. It involves the use of various media channels to
communicate messages to a vast and diverse audience. The primary goal of mass
communication is to share information, shape public opinion, and influence attitudes and
behaviors. This field plays a crucial role in modern societies, connecting people, cultures, and
ideas across geographical and cultural boundaries.

Functions of Mass Communication:

• Informative Function: Disseminating news, facts, and information to the public.
• Educational Function: Providing knowledge and promoting learning.
• Persuasive Function: Influencing opinions, attitudes, and behaviors through
advertising, propaganda, and public relations.
• Entertainment Function: Offering a source of enjoyment, leisure, and cultural
expression.

Components of Mass Communication:

The components of mass communication involve the essential elements that contribute
to the process of transmitting information to a wide audience through various media
channels. These components include the sender, message, channel, receiver, and
feedback. Here's a breakdown of each component:
1. Sender:
Sender is the entity or organization that originates and creates the message. It
initiates the communication process by encoding information into a form that can
be transmitted through a chosen medium.
2. Message:
Message is the content or information being conveyed from the sender to the
receiver. Messages can take various forms, such as text, images, audio, video, or a
combination of these.

3. Channel:
Channel is the medium through which the message is transmitted to the audience.
Channels include television, radio, newspapers, magazines, websites, social media
platforms, and other communication technologies.
4. Receiver:
Receiver is the individuals or audience who receive and interpret the message. It
actively engages with the message and decodes its content to derive meaning.
Receivers may be individuals, groups, or the general public.
5. Feedback:
Feedback is the response or reaction from the receiver back to the sender. Feedback
is crucial for completing the communication loop. It helps the sender understand
how the message was received and interpreted, allowing for adjustments and
improvements in future communication.
6. Gatekeepers:
• Definition: Individuals or entities that control the flow of information through the
communication process.
• Role: Gatekeepers may include editors, producers, or those who have the power to
decide which messages are transmitted and how they are presented.
7. Noise:
• Definition: Any interference or distortion that affects the clarity or accuracy of the
message during transmission.
• Types: Noise can be physical (external factors like loud sounds), semantic
(language barriers or misunderstandings), or psychological (individual biases and
perceptions).
8. Encoding and Decoding:
• Encoding: The process of converting information into a symbolic form suitable for
transmission.
• Decoding: The process of interpreting and understanding the encoded message by
the receiver.
 9. Context:
• Definition: The broader social, cultural, and historical environment in which the
communication process takes place.
• Influence: Context shapes how messages are created, understood, and interpreted,
influencing the effectiveness of communication.
10. Technological Infrastructure:
• Definition: The tools and technologies that facilitate the production, distribution,
and reception of messages.
• Examples: Printing presses, broadcasting equipment, internet servers, and
communication devices.
Understanding these components helps in analyzing the dynamics of mass
communication and the factors that contribute to effective or ineffective
communication processes. The interplay of these elements varies across different media
and communication contexts.

Importance of Mass Communication:

1. Information Dissemination: Mass communication plays a crucial role in keeping the
public informed about current events, news, and developments on a global scale.
2. Cultural Transmission: It helps in transmitting culture, values, and societal norms
from one generation to another.
3. Entertainment: Mass communication provides entertainment through various media
forms, offering a source of relaxation and enjoyment.
4. Social Influence: Mass media can shape public opinion, influence attitudes, and
contribute to social change by bringing attention to important issues.
5. Advertising and Commerce: Businesses use mass communication to promote
products and services, reaching a broad consumer base.

Types of Mass Media:

Mass communication involves various media platforms through which information is
disseminated to a large and diverse audience. Here are some key media of mass
communication:
(1) Print Media:
Newspapers: Traditional print newspapers provide written news, features, and
editorials.
Magazines: Periodicals covering a wide range of topics, including fashion,
lifestyle, science, and more
(2) Broadcast Media:
Television (TV): Visual and audio content delivered through channels
Broadcasting news, entertainment, documentaries, and more.
Radio: Audio broadcasts covering news, music, talk shows, and other
programs Digital Media:

(3) Internet: Websites, online news portals, and other digital platforms offer a variety of
content.
Social Media: Platforms like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and others enable
users to share and receive information globally.
(4) Advertising and Public Relations:
Advertisements: Utilized in various media, including print, TV, radio, and online
platforms, to promote products, services, or ideas.
Public Relations (PR): Involves managing and maintaining the public image of
individuals, organizations, or brands through media channels.
(5) Film Industry:
Movies: The film industry produces feature-length movies, documentaries, and other
visual content for mass consumption.
(6) Outdoor Media:
Billboards and Posters: Placed in strategic locations to convey messages to people in
transit.
(7) Electronic Media:
Podcasts: Digital audio content available for streaming or download, covering a wide
range of topics.
Webinars and Online Conferencing: Platforms for live or recorded presentations,
discussions, and workshops.
(8) Books and Print Publications:
Books: Long-form written content distributed in printed or digital formats.
Brochures and Pamphlets: Used for promotional and informational purposes.
(9) Mobile Apps:
News Apps: Provide on-the-go access to news and information.
Social Media Apps: Facilitate communication and content sharing on mobile devices.
(10) Interactive Media:
Video Games: A form of interactive entertainment with storytelling and
engagement
elements. Each medium has its unique characteristics, advantages, and limitations.
Advances in technology have led to the convergence of these media, allowing for
more integrated and interactive communication experiences.
Effective mass communication often involves a combination of these mediums to reach
and engage a broader audience.

Characteristics of Mass communication:

Mass communication possesses several distinctive characteristics that set it apart from
other forms of communication. These characteristics highlight the nature and impact of
mass communication on a large and diverse audience
1. Directs messages toward relatively large, heterogeneous and anonymous audience.

2. Messages are transmitted publicly (no privacy).

3. Short duration message for immediate consumption

4. Feedback is indirect, non-existent or delayed

5. Cost per exposure per individual is minimum

6. Source belongs to organization or institutions

7. Mostly one way

8. Involves good deal of selection that is, medium chooses its audience
(newspaper for literates) and audience choose media (poor, illiterates selectradio)
9. There is need for fewer media to reach vast and widespread audience because of wide
reach of each
10. Communication is done by social institutions which are responsive to the
environment in which they operate

Characteristics of Different Mass Media:

Different mass media have distinct characteristics that define their nature, reach, and
impact. Here are some key characteristics of various mass media:
1. Print Media (Newspapers and Magazines):
• Tangibility: Printed publications are physical and tangible, allowing
readers to engage with the content in a traditional and portable format.
• In-depth Analysis: Print media often provides in-depth analysis, features,
and longer articles that allow for detailed exploration of topics.
2. Broadcast Media (Television and Radio):
 • Audio-Visual: Broadcast media combine audio and visual elements,
providing a multisensory experience for the audience.
• Real-time Communication: Live broadcasting allows for real-time
communication of news, events, and entertainment.
3. Digital Media (Internet and Social Media):
• Interactivity: Digital media enables user interaction, allowing the audience
to comment, share, and participate in discussions.
• Global Reach: The internet provides a platform for instant global
dissemination of information and content.
4. Advertising:
• Promotion: Advertising is designed to promote products, services, or ideas
to a mass audience.
• Creativity: Advertisements often employ creative elements, including
visuals, storytelling, and music, to capture attention.
5. Film Industry:
• Narrative Storytelling: Films utilize narrative storytelling techniques to
convey stories, emotions, and messages.
• Cinematic Techniques: The film industry employs various cinematic
techniques, such as cinematography and special effects, to enhance visual
impact.
6. Electronic Media (Podcasts and Webinars):
• On-Demand Access: Podcasts and webinars provide on-demand access to
audio or video content, allowing users to consume information at their
convenience.
• Niche Topics: These media cater to specific interests and niche audiences,
offering specialized content.
7. Outdoor Media (Billboards and Posters):
• Visual Impact: Outdoor media relies on large, visually striking displays to
capture the attention of people in transit.
• Location-Based Messaging: Placed strategically in high-traffic areas to
maximize exposure.
8. Books and Print Publications:
• Long-Form Content: Books and print publications offer in-depth and
comprehensive exploration of topics.
• Authorship: Authors play a significant role, and their names are associated
with the content.
 9. Mobile Apps:
• Accessibility: Mobile apps provide easy access to information, services,
and entertainment on portable devices.
• Interactivity: Many apps allow for user engagement, customization, and
personalization.
10. Interactive Media (Video Games):
• User Engagement: Video games involve active participation, offering
users a level of engagement beyond passive consumption.
• Entertainment and Education: Games can entertain and educate
simultaneously, making them a unique form of interactive media.
Understanding these characteristics helps media producers tailor their content to the
strengths and limitations of each medium, while consumers can choose the platforms
that best suit their preferences and needs.

Audience Reach and Access to mass media

Audience reach and access to mass media refer to the extent to which a message,
content, or information can be disseminated and received by a large number of people
through various communication channels. Mass media encompass a range of platforms
that have the potential to reach a broad audience, including television, radio,
newspapers, magazines, the internet, and social media. Here are some key factors
related to audience reach and access to mass media:
1. Media Channels:
• Television: Television remains a powerful medium for reaching a large
audience. It includes broadcast and cable channels that cater to diverse interests
and demographics.
• Radio: Radio broadcasts are accessible to a wide audience, especially during
commuting hours. It's a valuable medium for both local and global reach.
• Print Media: Newspapers and magazines provide a tangible form of media and
have a significant local and regional presence.
• Internet: The internet has become a ubiquitous platform, and online media
outlets, websites, and blogs allow for global reach. Social media platforms
further enhance the dissemination of content.
2. Social Media:
• Platforms like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn have enormous user
bases, making them powerful tools for reaching diverse audiences. Targeted
advertising on these platforms allows for more precise audience targeting.
3. Mobile Devices:
 • The widespread use of smartphones has transformed the way people access
media. Mobile apps, websites, and other mobile-friendly content contribute to
the ease of mass communication.
4. Streaming Services:
• Platforms like Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, and others offer on-demand
content, allowing for a global audience to access a wide range of entertainment
and information.
5. Search Engines:
• Search engines like Google serve as gateways to information on the internet.
Optimizing content for search engines helps improve visibility and reach.
6. Audience Demographics:
• Understanding the demographics of the target audience is crucial. Different
media channels may be more effective for reaching specific demographics, and
tailored content can enhance engagement.
7. Advertising and Marketing:
• Paid advertising, whether through traditional media outlets or online platforms,
plays a significant role in increasing audience reach. Strategic marketing
campaigns can enhance visibility and access.
8. Cultural and Regional Considerations:
• Cultural and regional preferences influence media consumption. Adapting
content to local languages, customs, and preferences can enhance audience
engagement.
Access to mass media is dynamic and continually evolving with technological
advancements and changes in consumer behaviour. Successful communication
strategies often involve a multi-channel approach to ensure broad and effective
audience reach.
Media systems and theories provide frameworks for understanding the role, impact, and
dynamics of media in society. These concepts help analyze how media functions,
shapes public opinion, and influences culture. Here are some prominent media systems
and theories:
Media Systems:
1. Authoritarian Media System:
• In this system, the government tightly controls media content and
dissemination. It is often used as a tool for political control and propaganda.
2. Libertarian Media System:
 • Characterized by a lack of government interference, the libertarian system
emphasizes a free market of ideas. The media operates independently, with
minimal restrictions.
3. Social Responsibility Media System:
• This system acknowledges the need for a free press but emphasizes that media
outlets have a responsibility to serve the public interest. It encourages a balance
between freedom and social responsibility.
4. Soviet Communist Media System:
• Historically associated with the Soviet Union, this system involves state
ownership and control of media, serving the interests of the ruling party.
5. Development Media System:
• Emphasizing media's role in societal development, this system aims to use
media as a tool for education, information dissemination, and promoting social
progress.
Media Theories:
1. Agenda-Setting Theory:
• Proposes that media doesn't tell people what to think, but what to think about.
It highlights the media's role in shaping public perception by emphasizing
certain issues.
2. Cultivation Theory:
• Developed by George Gerbner, this theory suggests that long-term exposure to
media content can shape individuals' perceptions of reality, influencing their
beliefs and attitudes.
3. Uses and Gratifications Theory:
• Focuses on why people use media and how they derive satisfaction from it. It
suggests that individuals actively choose media to fulfill specific needs, such as
entertainment, information, or social integration.
4. Hypodermic Needle (Magic Bullet) Theory:
• Proposes that media has a direct and powerful influence on audiences, injecting
messages into them like a "magic bullet." This theory has been largely
discredited, as it oversimplifies the complex nature of media effects.
5. Two-Step Flow Theory:
• Suggests that media influences opinion leaders first, and these leaders, in turn,
influence others. It emphasizes the importance of interpersonal communication
in the dissemination of media messages.
6. Media Ecology Theory:
 • Developed by Marshall McLuhan, this theory explores how media and
communication technologies shape human perception, understanding, and
society as a whole.
7. Framing Theory:
• Examines how media frames events, issues, or topics, influencing how
audiences perceive and interpret them. Media framing shapes public opinion by
emphasizing certain aspects of a story while downplaying others.
8. Symbolic Interactionism:
• Originating in sociology, this theory focuses on how individuals derive meaning
from symbols, including those presented in media. It explores the dynamic
relationship between individuals and media representations.
These media systems and theories provide a foundation for understanding the complex
interplay between media and society, offering insights into the ways media shapes,
reflects, and interacts with cultural, political, and social contexts.

Questions:
1. State the functions of Mass Media
2. Discuss the components of Mass Communication
3. Comment on Types of Mass Media
4. Explain characteristics of different types of Mass Media.
5. Discuss various Mass Media Theories.
6. Comment on Various Media System.
7. What are different Media system?
8. Explain Audience Reach and Access to mass media.
9. Mention and explain the characteristics of Mass Media.
10. What is Mass Media? Give its Significance.

Choose the correct option:

1. What is the primary purpose of mass communication?
a) To entertain b) To inform c) To persuade d) All of the above
2. Which of the following is an example of interpersonal communication?
 a) Watching a movie b) Sending a text message c) Reading a newspaper d) Listening
to a radio program
3. What is the "magic bullet" theory in mass communication?
a) The idea that media messages have a direct and immediate effect on all
audiences.
b) The belief that media content is like a magical elixir for society.
c) The theory that media messages are ineffective and easily dismissed by audiences.
d) The concept that media content is unpredictable and has varying effects on different
people.
4. Which of the following is an example of mass media?
a) Face-to-face conversation b) Personal letters c) Television d) Telephone
conversation
5. What is the role of feedback in the communication process?
a) To control the flow of information
b) To enhance the credibility of the sender
c) To ensure that the message is understood
d) To increase the speed of communication

6. In the context of media convergence, what does the term refer to?
a) The merging of different media industries into one conglomerate
b) The integration of multiple media platforms into a single device or service
c) The competition among media outlets for audience attention
d) The decline of traditional media in favour of new technologies

7. Which theory suggests that media shapes our perceptions of reality over time?
a) Agenda-Setting Theory b) Cultivation Theory
c) Uses and Gratifications Theory d) Symbolic Interactionism
8. What is the term for the process by which media content is selected, shaped, and
presented?
a) Encoding b) Decoding c) Framing d) Filtering
9. are Individuals or entities that control the flow of information
through the communication process.
a) Gatekeeper b) Decoding c) Framing d) Filtering
10. Which media theory suggests that media doesn't tell people what to think but what to think
about, highlighting its role in shaping public perception by emphasizing certain issues?
a) CultivationTheory b)FramingTheory

c)Agenda-SettingTheory d) Symbolic Interactionism

11. Who developed the Cultivation Theory, proposing that long-term exposure to media content

can shape individuals' perceptions of reality?

a) Stuart Hall b) George Gerbner c) Marshall McLuhan d) Elihu Katz
12. Which theory focuses on why people use media and how they derive satisfaction from it,
suggesting that individuals actively choose media to fulfill specific needs?
a) Uses and Gratifications Theory b) Hypodermic Needle Theory
c) Two-Step Flow Theory d) Media Ecology Theory
13. Symbolic Interactionism, originating in sociology, focuses on how individuals derive
meaning from:
a) Language b) Symbols c) Numbers d) Colours
14 Which theory proposes that media has a direct and powerful influence on audiences,
injecting messages into them like a "magic bullet"?
a) Framing Theory b) Symbolic Interactionism
c)Hypodermic Needle Theory d) Agenda-Setting Theory
15. Which theory examines how media frames events, issues, or topics, influencing how
audiences perceive and interpret them?
a) Symbolic Interactionism b) Framing Theory
c) Cultivation Theory d) Two-Step Flow Theory
16. In which media system does the government tightly control media content and
dissemination, often using it as a tool for political control and propaganda?
a) Libertarian Media System b) Social Responsibility Media System

c) Authoritarian Media System d) Development Media System

17. Which media system is characterized by a lack of government interference, emphasizing a

free market of ideas and allowing media to operate independently with minimal restrictions?
a) Soviet Communist Media System b) Development Media System
c) Libertarian Media System d) Social Responsibility Media System
18. The Social Responsibility Media System emphasizes the need for a free press but also
underscores that media outlets have a responsibility to serve the public interest.
It encourages:
a) State control of media
b) A balance between freedom and social responsibility
c) Minimal government interference
 d) Independent media operations

19. The Development Media System emphasizes the role of media in societal development,
aiming to use media as a tool for education, information dissemination, and promoting
social progress. Which of the following is a key focus of this system?

a) Government control b) Economic interests

c) Media independence d) Societal development

20. The Soviet Communist Media System involves:

a) A free market of ideas b) State ownership and control of media
c) Independence of media operations d) Minimal government interference

21. Which media system historically associated with the Soviet Union involves state ownership
and control of media, serving the interests of the ruling party?
a) Development Media System b) Authoritarian Media System
c) Social Responsibility Media System d) Soviet Communist Media System
22 In the Libertarian Media System, the emphasis is on:
a) State control b) Minimal government interference
c) Serving the ruling party's interests d) Promoting propaganda

23. The Development Media System aims to use media as a tool for:
a) Political control b) Economic interests
c) Education, information dissemination, and promoting social progress
d) Serving the ruling party's interests

24. What is a characteristic of an Authoritarian Media System?

a) Minimal government interference b) Independent media operations
c) Tight government control and propaganda
d) Lack of restrictions on media content

25. Which media system acknowledges the need for a free press but emphasizes that media
outlets have a responsibility to serve the public interest?
a) Authoritarian Media System b) Libertarian Media System
c) Social Responsibility Media System d) Soviet Communist Media System

*****
 UNIT- 2

● Phases in the development of human communication

● Early efforts in publishing newspapers in the country
● Development of Mass Media in the post-Independence era — Press, TV, Radio, Films,
Language and regional media

• Phases in the Development of Human Communication

Communication is an ever continuing process and an integral part of the world of all living
things. Human communication is the exchange of information between two or more human
beings, whether verbal (in speech and writing) or nonverbal. Human communication is the field
dedicated to understanding how humans communicate. It is a pervasive activity. It serves
several important functions in society or our personal life. It is a constantly changing process.
Human communication went through different stages of development. At first this
development was driven by the process of mankind’s evolution from the lower species, later it
was driven by technological human progress.

Human communication went on changing from time to time, from place to place, from
community to community, and from culture to culture. These are the stages of human
communication:
1. Age of Signs and Symbols
2. Age of Speech and Language
3. Age of Writing
4. Age of Print
5. Age of Mass Communication
6. Age of Information Revolution

1. Age of Signs and Symbols

Prehistoric humans were physically unable to talk. Communication was limited and determined
by instincts. It was the age of signs and signals - drum messages, smoke signals, music, dance
etc.
During this age, human beings used noises and body movements consisting of mutually
understood signs and signals devised by the groups living together. Their noises and body
movements constituted growls, grunts, and shrinks.
One of the most remarkable achievements in the origin and growth of human communication
is described to be communication with the help of signs and symbols. But during this age, they
could not speak, due to their underdeveloped voice-box. They could make noises.

2. Age of Speech and Language

Man’s first achievement was speech and language. It gave him an eminent position over others.
Growth of different languages gave birth to different expressions that denoted distinctions
within communities. Certain languages acquired the traits of others, e.g., the language of
conquerors was absorbed into the local dialect. This then became the language of
administration and commerce.

Human beings of their age moved from place to place and during the process. They learned
new languages which they started spreading largely and widely. They developed a variety of
words, numbers, alfa-numeric, and the basic syntax and grammar of the language. This
gradually made the use of language much easier. In due course of time, their language also
became effective, efficient, and standardized.

What is more significant is that language development helped in a big way to the growth and
development of new culture, civilization, and society as a whole. Language may not be
described to be the only reason for these changes. Yet such changes would not have taken place
without language.

3. Age of Writing
After the growth and development of speech and language, it only took a few hundred years
for writing to sprout, bud and bloom. The origin of growth and development of writing
constitutes developments from pictorial or pictographic representations to phonetic systems.
While pictures are representative of objects and scenes, pictography represents ideas with
pictures and drawings.

On the other hand, the phonetic system uses simple letters and symbols to imply specific and
meaningful sources. After phonetic writing, there was growth and development of alphabetical
writing. This took place 1000 years after the establishment of phonetic writing.

Human beings of that period were gratified even with the hundred-odd symbols. These symbols
were later reduced to about two dozen. With the simplification of these symbols, there were
growth and development of simpler combinations of straight and curved lines. This allowed
information to be stored and for traditions to be passed on in writing. Clay, stone and later
papyrus were developed and used as portable media. Writing gave permanence to the spoken
language.

4. Age of Print
Soon after the growth and development of writing, human beings started developing a knack
for printing. Preparing printing plates by way of carving wooden blocks, metal plates, and stone
tablets was the earliest breakthrough by man. In the beginning, all such activities as engraving,
inking, and transforming the images on paper were executed manually.

The greatest change in this field was brought about by a noted German printing technologist
John Gutenberg. He is called the father of printing. He has the credit for two very relevant,
useful, and important developments, i.e., movable types of the mechanical printing press.

Again after the growth of literacy and education in this age, thousands of books, journals, and
periodicals were brought out in reasonably good numbers. These publications covered almost
all the relevant areas like society, politics, economy, religion, spiritualism, education, and
culture. It finally led to the printing of newspapers and magazines. By the end of the 18 th
century, newspapers were widely and largely available and emerged as a powerful vehicle of
communication. Books were followed by the development of pamphlets and then newspapers
in the 17th century. Some newspapers began to be edited by the then subjugated Asians and
Africans in spite of severe opposition. Revolutionary journals began to see the light of day and
enjoyed wide readership.

5. Age of Mass Communication

The growth and development of printing gave impetus to the enhancement of mass media
including newspapers, magazines, journals, periodicals, etc. In the 19th century, print media
was also supplemented with the telephone and telegraph.

The telephone and telegraph are not a means of mass communication, yet they added
tremendously to the growth of radio, television, and other broadcasting technologies. The
introduction of film in the 20th century in the type of motion pictures brought miracles. In the
1920s, radio broadcasting started and gave birth to television in the 1940s. Thus the 20th
century saw the emergence of the age of mass communication.

6. Age of Information Revolution

The present age is the age of the information revolution. In this era, integrated multi-media
applications are easily possible. This is mainly because of networks set up from the growth and
development of digital technology. Satellite technology is frequently used for weather
forecasting and even for mobile communication.

Hence, the birth of satellite radio and satellite television led to the production of high-quality
programs. Moreover, hypertext formats and structures have recently emerged as the
cornerstone for navigation and communication in the system.

• Early Efforts in Publishing Newspapers in the Country

Print media is one of the oldest and basic forms of mass communication. It includes
newspapers, weeklies, magazines, monthlies and other forms of printed journals. The
contribution of print media in providing information and transfer of knowledge is remarkable.
Even after the advent of electronic media, the print media has not lost its charm or relevance.
Print media has the advantage of making a longer impact on the minds of the reader, with more
in-depth reporting and analysis.

The press became an important tool to raise awareness about the need to unify against the
British and achieve independence. The press was a major advocate of modern ideas such as
democracy, freedom, equality, and patriotism.

Evolution of the press

The Press has had its fair share of trials and tribulations in its evolution in India. It was from
Calcutta that the first newspaper was published from India. The first weekly print venture
‘Bengal Gazette’ was started by James Augustus Hickey on 29 January 1780. It has another
title “Calcutta Advertiser”. It was popularly known as “Hickey’s Gazette”. Irishman James
Hickey, known as the ‘Father of Indian Press’ by the British, fabricated the system of
Journalism in the eighteenth century. Calcutta was then subject to the authority of the East
India Company.

Following in Hickey’s footsteps in 1780, the second newspaper was launched from Calcutta
“The Indian Gazette”. The “Calcutta Gazette” which started publication in 1784 and the
“Bengal Journal” which was launched in 1785 were the third and fourth newspapers to come
out from Calcutta. All these four earlier papers were published in the English language. Slowly
newspapers started coming out from other parts of the country also. The “Madras Courier ”
(1785) and “ Madras Gazette” (1795) were started from Madras. From Mumbai, the “Mumbai
Herald” was launched in 1789. The press regulations and censorship imposed by the British
stood in the way of starting more newspapers in India. In 1818, Lord Hastings removed the
strict censorship measures for a milder set of policies. This led to the emergence of many new
newspapers, including many in Indian languages.

Towards the end of the 19th century, many social reformers began actively campaigning for
radical changes in Indian society. The reformation of Hinduism, the move for abolition of sati
and efforts to encourage widow re- marriage were some of the major reforms. Inspired by these
great leaders, many newspapers were started in different parts of the country. All this led to a
boom in the newspaper industry in India.

Press during Freedom Struggle

The first half of the nineteenth century was characterised by proliferation of newspapers,
especially in Indian languages. These papers put up a resistance against strict and unfair
government regulations. Many Indian elites also became editors and publishers in different
parts of the country. Their circulation was still in thousands only still these newspapers became
vehicles of social reforms, information, contacts and social awakening. It was believed that
keeping an eye on the language newspapers could have revealed about the rebellion and
appropriate measures could have been taken.

Raja Rammohan Roy, the social reformer, journalist and freedom fighter from Bengal started
the Calcutta Journal and followed it up with Sambad Kaumudi and Mirat-Ul-Akhbar. The first
Hindi language newspaper, Uddant Martand was published by Pt. Jugal Kishore Sukool on a
weekly basis in the year 1826.

The period after the first struggle for independence called for tighter regulations for the Indian
language press. There was significant expansion in the nationalist press near the end of the 19th
century. The Marathi weekly Kesari and English weekly Mahratta were brought
out by Bal Gangadhar Tilak in 1880. Tilak was a not just a nationalist but also a true social
reformer. He stressed that newspapers should expose social conditions that need to be
improved. For him, the newspaper was also a means of political emancipation. Mathur (2013)
wrote that the anger and unrest against the British was at its peak in the early part of the 20th
century. The powerful writings by Mahatma Gandhi also influenced the public. Young India
and Harijan were able to amass huge readership and become vehicles of freedom struggle. He
wrote with conviction and passion. His writings were simple, clear and powerful. Gandhi Ji
published the newspapers to arouse feelings for ‘Swaraj’ as well as offer a platform to express
the feelings of the people.

Gandhi Ji is known as a prolific journalist who could sway public opinion through his writings.
This can be understood easily by the fact that even though his newspapers did not accept
advertisements, they could survive through subscriptions. They became instruments for
spreading his ideas amongst the public. His stand on the national movement was very well
represented through his writings. Therefore, his newspapers garnered good readership.
Many popular leaders of the time took a cue from Gandhi Ji and took up journalism as a means
to reach out to the people. They joined the fray as editors and publishers. With their missionary
zeal, they used their weeklies or dailies for social reform, education and national awakening.
The journalism of this era was known for its missionary zeal towards the cause of Indian
independence. In the hands of Gandhi, Nehru, Tilak and many others, these newspapers became
instruments of freedom struggle against the British rule in India.

• Development of Mass Media in the post-Independence era — Press, TV, Radio,

Films, Language and regional media

Press in post-Independence era

Since India gained independence in 1947, the press has had a crucial role in shaping the
country’s social and political environment. India’s rich journalistic history has witnessed
substantial transformations, evolving from challenging beginnings into a thriving and varied
medium that upholds democracy, free expression, and the public’s right to know.

An all pervasive euphoria prevailed after Independence marking the end of foreign rule after a
long and arduous freedom struggle. The press was no exception. There was great enthusiasm
to express national urges and aspirations, and to build a strong independent India. The press
was part of, and at the same time, vehicle of such urges and aspirations. The press was supposed
to play a part in nation building and support the development efforts by the government. In
fact, such was the importance placed on the press, that it came to be called as the fourth estate-
the first three being the Legislature, Executive and the Judiciary. The first Prime Minister,
Jawahar Lal Nehru, also contributed a lot towards development of the press. He pressed for a
free and fair press. Thus, the Press in India is free, vibrant and vigilant. It fearlessly exposes
the wrongs in our society and polity. It zealously guards its own freedom and brooks no
restrictions or regulations from the government. The Indian press is largely in private hands
and is commercial enterprise from the days of its pioneers.

Mass Media in India have played an important role in the development of our country as
informers, educators and entertainers. Each media has contributed in its own way towards
development of the nation at different times. The print media was the first major medium that
reached the masses apart from folk media. Thus, print media (books, newspapers, magazines,
journals etc.) has a long and important history. It was primarily centered around organising
masses against the British and played a key role in mobilising support for the national
independence movement.

In early days, British citizens started publishing the newspapers to vent their anger against the
government. Later, the freedom fighters used them to connect with masses, organize revolts,
remove superstition and unite the nation. The British had to place restrictions on the growth of
the press as it became a threat to them. Many freedom fighters including Mahatma Gandhi
brought out their own papers. The constitutional provisions about Freedom of Speech and
Expression helped the newspapers immensely in newly independent India. The newspapers at
the time focused on nation building and assisting the government to bring about development.
They went to the extent of openly and fearlessly criticising the actions and policies of the
government. A Press Council was constituted to safeguard the interests of the press. In the
1970’s, the imposition of emergency by Mrs. Indira Gandhi, the then Prime Minister, caused
irreparable loss of reputation and quality to the press. In some cases, censorship was imposed
and papers had to get prior approvals for publishing stories. Things started improving with the
coming of liberalisation in 1990’s. Newsprint was subsidised and companies from outside were
allowed to invest in the Indian printing world. Cable TV gave stiff competition to newspapers
as sources of news and as a result, the quality of news presentation improved.

Radio
Radio owes its development to two other inventions: the telegraph and the telephone. All three
technologies are closely related, and radio technology actually began as “wireless telegraphy.”
The term “radio” can refer to either the electronic appliance that we listen with or to the content
that plays from it. In any case, it all started with the discovery of radio waves—electromagnetic
waves that have the capacity to transmit music, speech, pictures, and other data invisibly
through the air.

The history of Indian Radio begins from the history of radio broadcast that started in India with
the setting up of a private radio service in Chennai, in the year 1924. It was followed by the
setting up of a broadcasting service that began broadcasting in India in June 1927 on an
experimental basis at Bombay and Calcutta simultaneously under an agreement between
Government of India and a private company called the Indian Broadcasting Company Limited
only to face liquidation in less than three years. Later as the company became bankrupt, the
government took possession of the transmitters and began its operations as the Indian State
Broadcasting Corporation. In the year 1936, it was renamed All India Radio (AIR) and the
Department of Communications managed it entirely. After independence, All India Radio was
converted into a separate Department.

In the year 1957, All India Radio was renamed Akashvani, which is controlled by the Ministry
of Information and Broadcasting. Akashvani is a government- owned, semi-commercial
operation of the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting. The AIR network had expanded by
the mid- 1990s to around 146 AM stations along with a National Channel, the Integrated North-
East Service that aimed at reaching out to the tribal groups in northeast India and the External
Services.

AIR today has a network of 229 broadcasting centers providing 100% coverage and about 132
million estimated radio sets in the country. Radio has emerged as an important medium of mass
communication due to its immediacy and intimate nature. Broadcasting in India has to cater to
millions of people with widely different tastes. Radio has an inherent advantage to overcome
the major barriers of illiteracy, lack of efficient means to reach remote places and poverty which
prevents access to mass media.

Commercial Radio got a big boost in India following the introduction of FM

radio. The goal of the government in popularising FM radio, which is the short form of
Frequency Modulated radio, was to improve programme content, and give listeners a wider
choice of programmes by allowing private players to set up radio channels. There have been
two major initiatives in the introduction of FM Radio. In Phase I that was introduced in 1999,
21 channels were set up in 12 cities. In Phase II that was initiated in 2005, the FM radio market
literally exploded in India. The number of FM channels grew to 242, and their footprint spread
across 85 cities. Phase III aimed to take FM radio to towns with one lakh
population. With this, the FM radio would be available in 294 cities and the
number of FM channels would be 839.

Community Radio is a new development in the field of broadcasting in India. Community

Radio is by the community and for the community. It provides the opportunity for
representation the people from different ethnic, social and religious backgrounds and gender.
Community radio media has a number of attributes that makes it an effective tool in promoting
women’s participation in decision-making processes and governance structures. It is not
controlled by corporate and government interests which allows it to speak to issues
independently. Community radio uses local language that makes the information and the
discussions on various issues accessible to local communities. It transcends literacy barriers,
which allows and encourages a great number of women to use it as their primary source of
information.

TV
Television often gets abbreviated to TV is a widely used telecommunication system for
broadcasting and receiving moving pictures and sound over a distance. The term may also be
used to refer specifically to a television set, programming or television transmission. The word
is derived from mixed Latin and Greek roots, meaning “far sight”.

Television made its official debut at the 1939 New York World’s Fair. It was seen as an
amusing, but unnecessary, appliance and the radio continued to be the favored form of
communication. Radio’s popularity sky rocketed at the start of World War II as televisions
were not yet equipped to provide accurate and timely news. All that began to change in the late
1940’s. Since it first became commercially available from the late 1930s, the television set has
become a common household communications device in homes and institutions, as a source of
entertainment and news.

Television became popular in the 1950s, but ideas for sending pictures over long distances
dated back to the 19th century. In 1926, Scottish television pioneer John Logie Baird (1888-
1946) demonstrated the first television system. T.V. is a multi-media system predominated by
the visual medium. T.V can transport the viewers to the actual scene of action to see things as
they happen. Having a television set in the home has become essential in today’s society and
we depend on it to entertain us with its sitcoms, serials and other entertainment related
programmes, and to inform us about current world issues.

In India, given the enormity of illiteracy, especially among women, radio and television
exposure is considerably higher than print media exposure. The electronic media offers women
entertainment and information in a homebound environment. The tremendous popularity of
television and its ability to reach a vast audience with illiteracy being no barrier led to the idea
of using television as a channel for information on development among several governments/
administrators. From the mid- seventies television began to be used to promote development
oriented messages among the Indian population. But there was no exclusive focus on women’s
problems and their development. In the absence of a comprehensive media policy in India,
television content emphasising entertainment has grown to such an extent that today all
television channels are oriented towards commercialisation. Although television in India
started with the affirmed objective of education, modernization and development, today’s
satellite channels have diverted from the cause and are showcasing entertainment shows which
are in reality harming the idea of socio economic development of all. Gerbner and Gross (1976)
argued that television is the central cultural arm of society, serving to socialise most people
into standardized roles and behaviors. They suggested that television cultivated people’s beliefs
about how the world worked more through the sum total of interactions, behaviors, and values
present in television content than through finite attempts to persuade.

Television has been a great entertainment for many people all over the earth. It is about news
and lots of information. Television has revolutionised the way the modern world communicates
and has had a large impact on society.

Films
Cinema is the Latin spelling of the Greek word ‘kinema’, meaning “a motion.” According to
Webster’s Dictionary, the word derives from cinematograph. The use of the word was first
seen 1899 in Britain, short for cinematograph. Cinema is the British word for a movie theatre.
The related words for cinema are celluloid, film, movie house, movie theatre. Indian film
Industry is considered a huge film industry in terms of production.
Indian cinema is a popular mode of entertainment for all. Digitalisation is considered to be the
next best thing for Indian Cinema and it is in a position to exploit the technology in all aspects
from building capacity, content creation, processing, management and distribution of the
digital content in various formats and sources.
1896 was a significant year for Indian entertainment as it witnessed the arrival of cinema in
India. Few months after first exhibition in Europe and America Lumiere Brothers decided to
tour the World and encase the sensational impact of the movie pictures. On July, 1896 Lumire
brothers’ representatives held the first public showing at Mumbai’s (Bombay) Watson’s Hotel.
Telling stories from the epics using hand-drawn tableaux images in scroll paintings, with
accompanying live sounds have been an age old Indian tradition. These tales, mostly the
familiar stories of gods and goddesses, are revealed slowly through choreographic movements
of painted glass slides in a lantern, which create illusions of movements. Though Lumiere
Brother’s new phenomenon did not create much of a stir in India and no one in the audience
ran out at the image of the train speeding towards them, as it did elsewhere. The Indian viewer
took the new experience as something already familiar to them. Perhaps the most striking
feature about the rise of cinema in India is the quickness with which the new technology has
found a place in this country.

The Indian Cinema started with production of short films. The first short films in India were
directed by Hiralal Sen, starting with The Flower of Persia (1898). The first full- length motion
picture in India was produced by Dadasaheb Phalke, a scholar on India’s languages and culture,
who brought together elements from Sanskrit epics to produce his Raja Harish Chandra (1913),
a silent film. It needs to be mentioned here that early cinema faced a great problem in getting
female actors. The Indian theatrical tradition was of help in that it had a whole category of
actors who specialised in female roles. It is difficult for us from our place and time to imagine
cinema without sound. There was mass resistance to the intrusion of sound in pictures – by the
technicians, actors and directors. As soon as sound came in, the studio became obsolete almost
overnight. A film company had to make fresh investments in new equipments and sound
proofing. For some time recording of sound created problems which are best illustrated by the
fact that microphones had to be concealed closely around the actors who had to move within
inflexible frames, making close ups less common because of the same reasons. Ardeshir Irani
released Alam Ara, the first Indian talking film, on 14 March 1931. Following the inception of
‘talkies’ in India some film stars were highly sought after and earned comfortable incomes
through acting. As sound technology advanced the 1930s saw the rise of music in Indian
cinema with musicals such as Indra Sabha and Devi Devyani marking the beginning of song-
and-dance in India’s films. Studios emerged across major cities such as Chennai, Kolkata, and
Mumbai as film making became an established craft by 1935, exemplified by the success of
Devdas, which had managed to enthral audiences nationwide. Bombay Talkies came up in
1934 and Prabhat Studios in Pune had begun production of films meant for the Marathi
language audience. Over a time magnetic tapes solved the problem and soon sound technology
settled to a process of gradual, increasing refinement.

Kisan Kanya released in 1937 was a first Hindi feature film in colour which was directed by
Moti B. Gidvani and produced by Ardeshir Irani of Imperial Pictures. It is largely remembered
by the Indian public on account of it being India’s first indigenously made colour film.

2D films consisted of sound and moving visuals though they lacked depth. The evolution of
technology played a part in up gradation of the 2D films into 3D films. 3D films or Stereoscopic
3D (S3D) is a motion picture that enhances the illusion of depth perception. Derived from
stereoscopic photography, a special motion picture camera is used to record the images as seen
from two perspectives (or computer-generated imagery generates the two perspectives), and
special projection hardware and/or eyewear are used to provide the illusion of depth when
viewing the film. Chota Chetan was the first Indian 3D Movie. The film was made under the
banner of Navodaya Films in 1984.

4D Films is a marketing term that describes an entertainment presentation system combining a

3D Film with physical effects in the theatre, which occur in synchronisation with the films.
Because the physical effects are expensive to set up, 4-D films are usually presented only at
special venues such as theme parks and amusement parks.

Language and regional media

India is a land of a myriad languages and dialects. The expansion of new printing and
telecommunication technology has had a tremendous impact on the growth of the language
press. India has seen a boom in media outlets in general and the regional language media in
particular. Whether we consider print, television, broadcasting, or online platforms, there has
been a mushrooming of privately-owned national and, later, regional news channels and
publications. Conventionally consisting of two segments the national news media and the
regional news media the former are predominantly English (and sometimes also in Hindi) while
the latter are produced in other regional languages and dialects spoken in different parts of the
country.

Before independence, India seemingly had only two languages English and the vernacular(s)
(Mallikarjun, 2021). But now, the Eighth Schedule to the Indian Constitution acknowledges
multilingualism and recognises twenty-two official languages besides English. These are (in
alphabetical order): Assamese, Bengali, Bodo, Dogri, Gujarati, Hindi, Kannada, Kashmiri,
Konkani. Maithili, Malayalam, Marathi, Meitei (Manipuri), Nepali, Odia, Punjabi, Sanskrit,
Santhali, Sindhi, Tamil, Telugu and Urdu. However, a popular saying about India reads ‘kos
kos par badle paani, chaar kos par bani’ i.e. the water changes every mile, and the language
changes every four miles. Revealing the linguistic diversity of India, the 2011 census recorded
a total of 121 (22 scheduled and 99 others) languages and 270 mother tongues in the country.

Questions:
1. Discuss stages in the development of human communication.
2. Write a note on evolution of the press.
3. How can radio be a tool of development for a society?
4. State the popularity of TV as an important mass media tool.
5. Write a note on Language and regional media.
6. Discuss the impact and evolution of films in India.
7. Discuss the development of Press in the post-Independence era.
MCQs:

1. _________ is the first stage of human communication.

a. Age of Signs and Symbols b. Age of Speech and Language

c. Age of Writing d. Age of Print

2. after the growth and development of writing, human beings started developing a knack
for____________.
a. painting b. printing c. speaking d. acting
3. ______________is called the father of printing.
a. John Keats b. John Greene
c. John Gutenberg d. John Milton
4. The growth and development of printing gave impetus to the enhancement of
__________ .
a. mass media b. writing c. sign and symbols d. satellite
5. It was from ________ that the first newspaper was published from India.
a. Delhi b. Mumbai c. Calcutta d. Chennai
6. The first weekly print venture was ________.
a. Bengal Gazette b. Mumbai Gazette
c. Delhi Gazette d. Kolkatta Gazette
7. ‘Bengal Gazette’ was started by _________on 29 January 1780.
a. John Keats b. John Greene
c. John Gutenberg b. James Augustus Hickey
8. _________ was known as the ‘Father of Indian Press’ by the British.
a. John Keats b. John Greene
c. John Gutenberg b. James Augustus Hickey
9. Raja Rammohan Roy started the Calcutta Journal and followed it up with _________ .
a. Sambad Kaumudi b. Mirat-Ul-Akhbar
c. Both a and b d. None
10. The Marathi weekly Kesari and English weekly Mahratta were brought out by _______.
a. Bal Gangadhar Tilak b. Javaharlal Nehru
c. M. K. Gandhi d. Raja Rammohan Roy
11. Who wrote Young India and Harijan?
a. Bal Gangadhar Tilak b. Javaharlal Nehru
c. M. K. Gandhi d. Raja Rammohan Roy
12. __________ came to be called as the fourth estate.
a. Legislature b. Executive c. Press d. the Judiciary
13. Books, Newspapers, Ballad, Magazines. (pick the odd one out)
a. Books b. Newspapers c. Ballad d. Magazines
14. _______owes its development to two other inventions: the telegraph and the telephone.
a. Radio b. TV c. News papers d. Magazines
15. Radio broadcast that started in India with the setting up of a private radio service
in_______, in the year 1924.
 a. Delhi b. Mumbai c. Calcutta d. Chennai
16. In the year, The Indian State Broadcasting Corporation, was renamed as All India
Radio.
a. 1930 b. 1946 c. 1940 d.1936
17. In the year 1957, All India Radio was renamed __________.
a. Akashvani b. Bhavishyavani c. Akashganga d. Bharatvani
18. FM stands for_________
a. Frequently Modulated radio, b. Frequency Modulated radio
c. Frequency Molecules radio d. Frequently Molecules radio
19. The arrival of cinema in India occurred in ______ year.
a. 1896 b. 1890 c. 1857 d. 1957
20. The first short films in India were directed by Hiralal Sen, starting with ________.
a. The Flower of Syria b. The Flower of Persia
c. The Petal of Persia d. The Petal of Syria
21. The first full- length motion picture in India was produced by _________
a. Raj Kapoor b. Pruthvi Raj Kapoor
c. Dadasaheb Phalke d. Hiralal Sen
22. Ardeshir Irani released__________, the first Indian talking film, on 14 March 1931.
a. Alam Ara b. Raja Harishchandra
c. Saraswatichandra d. Don
23. Chota Chetan was the first Indian _____ Movie.
a. 2D b. 3D c. 4D d. Silent
24. ______Films is a marketing term that describes an entertainment presentation system
combining a 3D Film with physical effects in the theatre.
a. 2D b. 4D c. Digital d. Silent
25. The Indian constitution recognizes _____ major languages of India.
a. 12 b. 24 c. 09 d. 22
 UNIT -3
WRITING FOR MEDIA

• Press Notes
• Framing News Articles
• Social Media

• Press Notes

Press notes are those devices of communication, by which a government policy or an important
announcement is issued for the information of the public. In its nature, a press note is important as
compared with the handout in all implicit and explicit aspects. It is usually drafted and composed
in formal language from the textual point of view, no deviation is permissible. It is also designed
to communicate and transmit information in strict sense of the word, with no deviation allowable.

A press note leaves the sub-editor at liberty to publish it or the otherwise. Press Notes are usually
short and crisp notes with direct message. The Notes describe one’s viewpoint on specific matters.
Press notes should be prepared in the most logical manner and with suitable words. Its basic
agenda is to manage image in front of the public and to provide an account of the event organized
or to be organized. Hence, it should be terse, brief, timely, understandable, concise, and specific
and should contain all relevant facts and figures in their true perspective.

From the study and examination of the definition and nature of the Press note, we can presume the
basic points as enumerated below:
1. Press notes are issued by any organization for the information of the general
public.
2. Press note contains information in unambiguous and categorical terms.
3. Press notes are specially attuned to accuracy of presentation, whereby a sort of
credibility is created.
4. Press notes are the effective tools of bridging the communication gap, by resorting to
both the outward and the inward public relation.
5. Press notes normally carry the idea of firm stand on the part of the organization.
6. Press notes are usually reproduced in the newspaper and other mass media in the
similar order and manner, as they are received.
7. Press notes are closely related to the announcements of Government’s basic policy as
such the newspapers cannot change, reduce or alter their contents in any manner.
8. Press notes as being firm stand and Governments basic policy, is not liable to frequent
alteration. As such these are usually and definitely the last work, which may, however,
be revised if genuinely require.

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Difference Between a Press Note and a Press Report
PRESS NOTE PRESS REPORT
An organization sending matter for publication A correspondent representing a newspaper or
prepared by its own staff is issuing a press note. a news agency covering an event on his own
writes a press report.

Prepared by the news reporter

Prepared by staff of the organization As prepared by the news reporters
As prepared by the staff of the organization, themselves, so will not prepare the report if
can be published with or without editing or the news doesn’t seem to have any value.
may be rejected by the newspapers or news
agency if not seems newsworthy.

It is used as a mode of publicity by the It is a medium for providing actual

organization. information to the public.
Press Note relate to statements issued as Press Press Reports are the news items gathered by
Note by some institution/ organization by the News Service and their Correspondents/
way of dissemination of information for the Reporters.
benefit of general public at large.

• Framing News Articles

It is a human habit to know what is happening around. Curiosity is a natural impulse; every
human being enjoys or suffers from it. So, we read newspapers for information about people and
places: we read them to know the news and views; we read them for delight and entertainment,
we read them to help ourselves keep in touch with the changing times. Indirectly, we also keep
in touch with the latest usage in language, because the style of a standard newspaper is generally
up-to-date. Newspapers provide us information. They touch your emotions, stimulate thinking
and stir up imagination.

Who gets this information for the newspaper? It is the reporter, the one who goes out on his "beat"
into the various walks of life; his sole purpose is to gather the news and prepare a report for the
editor. The importance of being exact, thus, puts a heavy weight of responsibility on the shoulders
of the individual reporter.
Reporter's Job: The Duties and Qualities of a Press Reporter:

• The duty of a reporter is to give accurate, complete, impartial and timely information about
what has happened or is likely to happen. The reporter reports the news skillfully and makes
sure that the news consists of all important and essential facts. This is known as veracity.
• He must try to reach at the truth as far as it is possible. His first obligation is to the people and
his duty is to report all sides of particular story he is covering without any prejudice. This is
known as objectivity.
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• He must be aware of his responsibility to the public as the press molds the public opinion. The
Press is a very powerful instrument of molding public opinion in democracy.
(Responsibility)
• He must have an insatiable desire to know something of everything. (Curiosity)
• Hundreds of incidents and events take place around us. From these innumerable events
he has to pick up the event carrying an extreme great news-value to the reading public.
He must have a nose for news.
• In modern busy life we have, indeed, hardly any time to stand and stare. Most people
seem always to be in a great hurry. Such buy people would like to read news items
which are short and sweet. And, since the newspapers are meant to communicate
information as quickly as possible, a reporter cannot afford to write ambiguous and
lengthy news stories. If he does, readers will soon get bored of the newspaper. Hence,
an experienced and sensible reporter writes precisely. "Journalism is literature in hurry."
• He has to guard himself against such things as biased opinion, prejudice, advertising in
disguise, incongruities, old news, verbosity, repetition and wearing some details.

The Qualities of a News Article:

The qualities that would seem most important in newspaper writing the goals that a reporter
should seek can be rather easily defined. If he attains nothing else, his writing will be good and
usable and interesting. These outstanding goals are:

1. Clarity:
The conditions under which newspaper writing is read suggest utmost clarity is the highest goal. If
the reader is hasty, drowsy and inattentive the writing must be so clear that he cannot possibly
misunderstand it in one quick reading. It is a matter of logic and clear thinking on the part of the
writer. It is also largely a matter of grammar. Clearance hampered language obstacles reader.
2. Conciseness:
A newspaper writer fights space all his life. Never does he have room enough to say all that he
wishes to say. After the copy is on paper, the writer must go over it and prune out useless words
and phrases.

3. Originality:
Much more than trying to say things in a new way, it is a matter of avoiding an old tiresome way.

4. Correctness:
In order to achieve a clear, simple, effective, lucid and easily understandable news-reporting
style, the reporter should always try to avoid errors spelling, grammar, sentence-structure. Facts
and figures should be carefully dealt with.

5. Simplicity:
A newspaper reporter should be aware of the fact that he is not for the writing learned people only.
People with ‘a little knowledge’ and ‘a little education’ also devote some of their favourite
newspaper. Hence, there is the need for a simple and lucid style. News-reporters should always
remember this: ‘Never underestimate the intelligence of your reader’, ‘never overestimate his
vocabulary.’
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6. Human Interest:
The universal topic of the newspaper is “people”. It need not be done artificially; it means merely
to realize that every article primarily concerns human beings; it tries to translate all facts into human
terms.
7. Variety:
Efforts to attain simplicity clearness often result only in monotony of style. Such drabness may
be fought by conscious effort for a variety of expression. Three simple rules will aid (a) No two
successive sentences should begin with the same word except for a balanced effect. (b) No two
successive sentences should have the same grammatical construction, except for contrast, (c) Not
many sentences should be built on the same patterns.

This kind of awareness of the essentials of style helps the report to write news - stories that are clear,
correct, objective (and not subjective), fair, and legally safe. He does not colour the news, he aims
at objectivity of approach. In an ideal news-reporting there is no for the reporter's explaining things
or commenting upon the news. This does not mean that he has no style to follow. He can certainly
show his style in his presentation of the story. If something happens worth reporting, two
reporters-let us take an example - write their stories objectively, and yet their style may differ in the
very presentation of the stories. Perhaps both of them may have their own way of beginning and
ending it. Read one and the same news from two or three different newspapers and you will be
able to mark different style of the reporters.

The Structure of a News Article

In all there are five parts of a press report. They are as under:

(1) The Headline

(2) The Source
(3) The Place and the Date
(4) The lead
(5) The Body: (Story).
The Headline:

When means of communication became better and faster, the newspapers competed with one
another for subscriptions and street sales. This situation brought about the headline; the vehicle
designed to sell the paper through its advertisements of the news. The purposes of the headline
are apparent:
To advertise the news story to the reader.
To give the reader an idea of the story's news value by the headline's size, content and position on
the page.
To help the reader choose what to read first.
(ii) The Lead-a Show Case:
The Lead is a distinctive introductory first paragraph. It is an outline of the entire story. Also, it is
4
a bulletin, a summary, climax, a wrapping-in one small package of the gist or sum total of the news
announcement.

The Lead is useful to those hasty and busy readers who have no time to go through the entire story.
That's why quite often the Lead is printed in big or black letters, while the body is printed in small
ones.

The Lead tells the reader the main points of the news in a single paragraph. Because the lead
sums up the main events of the story, it should answer such questions - Who? What? Where?
When? Why? How? It should also provide identification and authority. This means that the news-
story should mention who the important or central person is in the news and what he is. This should
also include the source of information. It means that the news comes from an authoritative source of
information. For example, very often we see that words like. P.T.I. or 'By a Staff Reporter' are
mentioned above the lead of the news.
The Story
According to Richard Critchfield, the lead of the news-story is ‘a synopsis of the body,' and
the body itself is 'an elaboration of the lead.' As the lead stresses only one or two of the five
W's, the body supplies the remaining necessary additional information. Thus, the body deals with
the why and how of the events given in the lead. Other necessary details may also be added, e.g.
names of persons killed in an accident.

A sensible reporter develops the body systematically. He narrates first the most important facts to
the news, and adds the least important fact at the end so that the chief sub-editor may remove it if
he chooses so, for make-up purposes. And that is why the structure of a news- story is often
compared to an inverted pyramid. Thus, the Body should be well - organized. This should be
written in simple and clear sentences. Only a lucid style becomes effective and easily carries
interest to the climax.
Specimen Press Reports
[A] ACCIDENTS

LANDSLIDE AT THE ROOT OF KASARA COLLISION

DNA INDIA/ (By Our Staff Reporter)
Mumbai, July 21, 2022

An accidental fall of a boulder on the railway tracks following a minor landslide was blamed for the
derailment of 11compartments of the Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus-bound Kasara local, which
in turn, was rammed by a speeding Vidarbha Express near Khardi station on Thursday night,
killing a 65-year-old woman and injuring 14 others.

On Thursday night, the Kasara local moving at a speed of around 70 kmph was hit by a boulder,
which had fallen from one of the hillocks near the tracks. Following this, as many as 11 coaches
of the 12-coach train were derailed.

According to an official statement from the CR, the express train hit the local within two to three
5
minutes, resulting in the derailment of its engine. Also, since the alert loco pilot of the Express
train had applied the emergency brakes following a warning signal from the local, one
compartment climbed over another and a total of four compartments of the train were derailed.
Chairman of the Railway Board, Vinay Mittal, who visited the accident site on Friday morning,
pointed out that the two trains did not have any buffer time and they converged at the spot within
a few minutes. “There was a difference of hardly a minute between the derailment of the local
and the Vidarbha Express,” he said.

Out of the 14 injured, four suffered from grievous injuries and were shifted to Suvidha Hospital
in Nashik, while 10 others were admitted to Kasara Hospital. Railway officials said Shakeela
Qureshi, 65, was one among the many in the first few coaches of the local who panicked and
jumped out. “She suffered injuries after jumping down from the local on the tracks. The panic of
being hit by another train may have caused her to jump from the local train,” said a senior CR
official. This incident has prompted the railway to find more effective ways to deal with such
situations, especially in areas with presence of natural features like hillocks or boulders.
“We are thinking about how people could be better protected in areas which have the presence of
big rocks,” said KH Muniyappa, minister of state for railways. The CR has ordered a probe into
the mishap.

[B] NATURAL CALAMITIES

AT LEAST 34 KILLED AS EARTHQUAKE ROCKS INDONESIA

Jan 15, 2022

The Times of India

JAKARTA: A powerful earthquake rocked Indonesia's Sulawesi island early Friday, killing at
least 34 people, levelling a hospital and severely damaging other buildings, authorities said.

Hundreds more were injured when the 6.2-magnitude quake struck in the early hours, triggering
panic among the terrified residents of the island, which was hit by a huge quake and tsunami two
and a half years ago that killed thousands.

"The latest information we have is that 26 people are dead... in Mamuju city," said Ali Rahman,
head of the local disaster mitigation agency, adding "that number could grow". "Many of the
dead are buried under rubble," he said.

Separately, the national disaster agency said at least eight people had died in an area south of
Mamuju, a city of some 1,10,000 in West Sulawesi province, bringing the total death toll to 34.

Rescuers were searching for more than a dozen patients and staff trapped beneath the rubble of
the levelled Mamuju hospital. "The hospital is flattened -- it collapsed," said Arianto from the
rescue agency in Mamuju city, who goes by one name. "There are patients and hospital employees
trapped under the rubble and we're now trying to reach them," he added, without giving a specific
figure.
6
Rescuers were also trying to reach a family of eight trapped under the rubble of their destroyed
home, he added. The country's search-and-rescue agency said at least one hotel had partially
collapsed after the quake struck at 2:18 am local time Friday (1818 GMT Thursday), while the
regional governor's office also suffered extensive damage.

A Mamuju resident said damage across the city was severe. "Roads are cracked and many buildings
collapsed," said 28-year-old Hendra, who also goes by one name. "The quake was very strong... I
woke up and ran away with my wife." Images from the scene showed residents fleeing the seaside
city in cars and motorbikes as they drove past corrugated metal roofs and other building debris
scattered on the roadside.

The meteorological agency warned residents that the area could be hit by strong aftershocks and to
avoid the beachfront in case of a tsunami. "The aftershocks could be as strong, or stronger, than
this morning's quake," said Dwikorita Karnawati, chief of the meteorological agency.
"There is potential for a tsunami from subsequent aftershocks... Don't wait for a tsunami first
because they can happen very quickly," she added. The local airport in Mamuju had also been
damaged, authorities said. The quake's epicenter was 36 kilometers (22 miles) south of Mamuju
and it had a relatively shallow depth of 18 kilometers, the United States Geological Survey said.

Images supplied by the search-and-rescue agency showed rescue workers checking on two
sisters who were trapped under rubble. It was not clear where they were trapped.

Indonesia experiences frequent seismic and volcanic activity due to its position on the Pacific
"Ring of Fire", where tectonic plates collide. In 2018, a 7.5-magnitude quake and a subsequent
tsunami in Palu on Sulawesi left more than 4,300 people dead or missing. On December 26,
2004, a 9.1-magnitude earthquake struck off the coast of Sumatra and triggered a tsunami that
killed 2,20,000 throughout the region, including around 1,70,000 in Indonesia.

• Social Media

Social media basically means any human communication or sharing information on internet that
occurs through the medium of computer, tablet or mobile. There are numerous websites and apps
that make it possible. Social media is now becoming one of the largest means of communication
and is gaining popularity rapidly. Social media enables you to share ideas, content, information
and news etc. at a much faster speed. In last few years social media has grown tremendously at
an unexpectedly fast rate and has captured millions of users around the world. Social media plays
a big role in our lives today. We have the access to any kind of information at just a button push
away. The power of social media is very high and has its effects on each individual. It is difficult
to imagine our lives without social media today.

Importance of Social Media

Social media platforms help its users to connect, share and give information and content to
millions of others. The importance of social media cannot be ignored since it plays a very crucial
7
role in our lives today.

1. Building a brand: Quality content, products and services are easily accessible online today.
You can market your product online and build a brand.
2. Customer support: Before buying a product or service customers can read the reviews and
feedback and hence make a smart choice.
3. Social media is a great education tool.
4. Through the use of social media platforms, you can connect with your target audience.
5. It is also a great way to access quality information.
6. Social media can help you to get the news and happenings in just a click.
7. Social media also helps you connect with friends, relatives and helps you make new
friends as well.
8. It can create awareness for many social issues.
9. There is a fast transfer of information online and hence the users can stay well informed.
10. It can provide great employment opportunities online.
Usage of Social Media

1. Social networks—Connect with people

2. Media sharing networks—Share photos, videos, and other media
3. Discussion forums—Share news and ideas
4. Bookmarking and content curation networks—Discover, save, and share new content
5. Consumer review networks—Find and review businesses
6. Blogging and publishing networks—Publish content online
7. Interest-based networks—Share interests and hobbies
8. Social shopping networks—Shop online
9. Sharing economy networks—Trade goods and services
10. Anonymous social networks—Communicate anonymously

Knowing about these categories of social media and understanding why people use them can open
up new ideas and channels for engaging with your audience more effectively.

1. Social Networks

Examples: Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn

Why people use these networks: To connect with people (and brands) online.
How they can benefit your business: Let us count the ways. Market research, brand awareness,
lead generation, relationship building, customer service… the list is pretty much endless.
Social networks, sometimes called “relationship networks,” help people and organizations connect
online to share information and ideas. Since the rise of the mobile internet, these networks have
8
become hubs that transform nearly every aspect of modern life—from reading news to sharing
vacation photos to finding a new job—into a social experience.

2. Media Sharing Network

Examples: Instagram, Snapchat, YouTube

Why people use these networks: To find and share photos, video, live video, and other media
online. How they can benefit your business: Like the major relationship networks, these sites are
invaluable for brand awareness, lead generation, audience engagement, and most of your other
social marketing goals. Media sharing networks give people and brands a place to find and share
media online, including photos, video, and live video.
While the majority of posts on relationship networks contain text, posts on networks like
Instagram and Snapchat start with an image or video, to which users may decide to add content
like captions, mentions of other users etc.
Similarly, sites such as YouTube and Vimeo, video is the primary mode of communication.

3. Discussion Forums

Examples: Reddit, Quora, Digg

Why people use these networks: To find, discuss, and share news, information, and opinions.
How they can benefit your business: These networks can be excellent resources for market
research. Done right, you can also advertise on them, though you’ll need to be careful to keep
your ads and posts separate. Discussion forums are one of the oldest types of social media. These
are the sites where people go to find out what everyone’s talking about and weigh in on it—and
users on these sites generally aren’t shy about expressing their opinions. While social
relationship networks are increasingly implementing measures to reduce anonymity and create a
safe space online, discussion forums generally allow users to remain anonymous, keeping some
of the “wild west” feel that used to define the online experience.

4. Bookmarking and Content Curation Networks

Examples: Pinterest, Flipboard

Why people use these networks: To discover, save, share, and discuss new and trending content
and media.
How they can benefit your business: These networks can be highly effective for driving brand
awareness, customer engagement, and website traffic.
Bookmarking and content curation networks help people discover, save, share, and discuss new and
trending content and media.
These networks are a hotbed of creativity and inspiration for people seeking information and
ideas, and by adding them to your social media marketing plan, you’ll open up new channels for
building brand awareness and engaging with your audience and customers.
Bookmarking networks like Pinterest help people discover, save, and share visual content. An
easy first step for getting started with Pinterest is to make your website bookmark-friendly. This
entails optimizing headlines and images on your blog and/or website for the feeds these networks
9
use to access and share your content. You should also pay close attention to the images featured on
your site or blog—these are the window displays of Pins, so you want them to be good
representations of your content.

5. Consumer Review Networks

Examples: Yelp, Zomato, TripAdvisor

Why people use these networks: To find, review, and share information about brands, products,
and services, as well as restaurants, travel destinations, and more.
How they can benefit your business: Positive reviews bring social proof to your claims. Handled
well, you can resolve issues with unhappy customers.
Consumer review networks give people a place to review brands, businesses, products, services,
travel spots, and just about anything else.
Reviews are a type of content that adds a lot of value to many websites and online services—
think about the buying experience on Amazon, or the experience of searching for a local business
on Google Maps. Consumer review networks take it one step further by building networks around
the review as a core part of the value they provide.
Location-based review services such as Yelp and Zomato continue to grow as personal social
networks adopt geo location and more users choose to consult the internet along with their friends
for recommendations of best dining spots.

6. Blogging and Publishing Networks

Examples: WordPress, Tumblr, Medium

Why people use these networks: To publish, discover, and comment on content online.
How they can benefit your business: Content marketing can be a highly effective way to engage
with your audience, build your brand, and generate leads and sales.
Blogging and publishing networks give people and brands tools to publish content online in
formats that encourage discovery, sharing, and commenting. These networks range from more
traditional blogging platforms like WordPress and Blogger to microblogging services like Tumblr
and interactive social publishing platforms like Medium.
A blog doesn’t just help increase awareness of your business and generate more engaging content
for your social channels such as Facebook; it can also help carve out a niche for your brand as a
thought leader in your industry.

QUESTIONS
1. What is Press Note? Mention the fundamental points of Press Notes.
2. Write any two differences between a Press Note and a Press Report.
3. Discuss the duties and qualities of a press reporter
4. Write the qualities of a news article and the structure of a news article
5. Write a press report on accident
6. Discuss importance of social media and discuss any three usages
7. Write a detailed note on social networks
8. Elaborate media sharing network and discussion forums
9. Discuss bookmarking and content curation networks

10
10. Explain: a. consumer review networks
b. blogging and publishing networks

OBJECTIVE QUESTIONS

1. The duty of a reporter is to give ________ information about what has happened or is likely
to happen.
a. Complete and impartial b. Partial c. Subjective d. Incomplete
2. The Press Reporter must try to reach at the __________ as far as it is possible.
a. Truth b. details c. people d. venue
3. Press reporter’s duty is to report __ sides of a particular story he is covering without any
prejudice.
a. Two b. One c. All d. It does not matter
4. A reporter cannot afford to write news stories.
a. Ambiguous and lengthy b. Short c. clear d. factual
5. A reporter has to guard himself against _______ .
a. Biased opinion b. Conciseness c. Curiosity d. Truth
6. ___________deals with the why and how of the events given in the lead.
a. The Lead b. The Body c. The Headline d. Title
7. Press note is usually drafted and composed in ________language.
a. Informal b. Formal c. Rural d. Non- verbal
8. Press Notes are usually ______ notes with direct messages.
a. Lengthy b. Short and crisp c. Medium d. obscure
9. An organization sending matter for publication prepared by its own staff is issuing a ___
.
a. Press Report b. Press Note c. Report d. Minutes
10. A correspondent representing a newspaper or a news agency covering an event on his
own writes a .
a. Press note b. Press Report c. Agenda d. Annual Report
11. __ are used to connect with people.
a. Discussion Forum c. Consumer review networks
b. Social networks d. Media sharing networks
12.__ are used to share photos, videos and other media.
a. Interest-based networks c. Sharing economy networks
b. Media sharing networks d. Discussion Forum
13.__________ are used to share news and ideas.
a. Social shopping networks c. Discussion forum
b. Consumer review networks d. Media sharing networks
14.___________ are used to discover, save and share new content.
a. Social networks c. Bookmarking and content curation networks
b. Discussion forums d. Consumer review networks

11
 15. __________ are used to find and review businesses.
a. Sharing economy networks c. Social networks
b. Consumer review networks d. Social shopping networks

16. ___________are used to publish content online

a. Discussion Forum c. Bogging and publishing networks
b. Social shopping networks d. Consumer review networks
17. _________are used to share interests and hobbies.
a. Social shopping networks c. Interest-based networks
b. Consumer review networks d. Social shopping networks
18. ________ are used to shop online.
a. Social networks c. Social shopping networks
b. Consumer review networks d. Bogging and publishing networks

19.___________ are used to trade goods and services.

a. Discussion Forum c. Sharing economy networks
b. Social networks d. Consumer review networks
20._________ are used to communicate anonymously.
a. Consumer review networks c. Anonymous Social networks
b. Social shopping networks d. Discussion Forum
21.__________ is an example of Social Networks.
a. You Tube b. Facebook c. Quora d. Zomato
22. ________is an example of Discussion forums.
a. Pinterest b. Quora c. Flipboard d. Swiggy
23.__________ are one of the oldest types of social media.
a. Discussion forums c. Consumer review networks
b. Blogging and publishing networks d. Social shopping networks
24._ is an example of Blogging and publishing networks.
a. WordPress b. Pinterest c. Reddit d. Zomato
25.__________ networks can be highly effective for driving brand awareness, customer
engagement and website traffic.
a. Discussion Forums c. Book marking and content curation networks
b. Consumer review networks d. Social shopping networks

REFERENCE BOOKS

1. Business Communication, Author: Rai, U./ Rai, S. M 10th, Publisher: Himalaya Business 2.
Communication, Author: Kaul, Asha 2nd ed, Publisher: PHI
3. Business Correspondence & Report Writing, Author: Sharma, R. C/ Mohan, K. 3rd ed, Publisher:
TMH

12
 UNIT 4
PHOTO JOURNALISM

BASICS OF PHOTOGRAPHY

Photography is about noticing the beauty in everyday. It is about being aware of light,
reflections, perspective and colour; of moments present, and approaching. It is the observation
of people, their idiosyncrasies, and their interactions with their environment. Photography is
about finding the delightful details that are always present, yet are rarely acknowledged. It is
finding the splendour in the mundane, and the extraordinary in the ordinary. Then, and only
then, does the wonderful world of learning to capture what you are seeing become remotely
relevant.

THE MAGIC WORDS

If you retain nothing more than the following three words, your photography will improve out
of sight - Light, Subject and Composition. These magic words are the fundamental aspects
that guide every element of all my photography. Consider them every time you press the shutter
and enjoy watching your photography improve exponentially.

Light
Beautiful light will make anything look divine, and it will make you look light a photographic
magician. Firstly, consider the time of day that you photograph - pre-dawn, sunrise, sunset and
dusk are amazing times to take pictures. Drag your subject out of bed, or tempt them with wine
and the end of the day. Also, think about using direct midday sunlight, it will create honest and
contrasty images. Fire up some candles, turn on the car headlights, shine a torch or move a
lamp. Play with backlight and silhouettes. Enjoy the soft light on cloudy days. Considering and
experimenting with light is the single most beneficial thing you can do for your photography.

Subject
Second to the light, is your subject - person, place or thing. An engaging subject, landscape,
building or object will help create a captivating image. Take time and explore, find a sweet or
rare location. Ask permission for places, ask friends for their time, borrow cars, steal toys or
hijack heirlooms. If shooting people, this section encompasses the mood of your subject -
consider, manage or control this. Dragging a child, friend, model or mother through an arduous
shoot experience will earn little satisfaction, for you or them.

Composition
Once you have found beautiful light, a sweet location and created the right mood, now consider
the composition and framing of the photograph. Composition controls the manner in which you
look around an image. Cropping, subject placement, colour and object alignment will all have
significant affects on how your image is viewed. Consider using leading lines to guide the eye
directly to your subject. Create depth in the image by using foreground and background, or
simplify the whole scene by using a plain wall. Composition is a very important factor that will
provide the final touches to help you convey a message in your image - it’s a very good idea to
be trying to say something - even if it is as simple as happy girl by a pretty lake. Know what
you are trying to say and use everything you can to help accentuate your idea.
LIGHTING
Direct Sunlight
In India we are blessed with a very unique quality of light - it’s harsh and it’s bright! It’s not
the most flattering light, but by making the most of it, we can create striking imagery that folks
in parts of Europe can only dream of. Portraits or objects shot in direct light have a very
contrasty look with bright colours and heavy shadows.

Shade or Cloudy
Shade or a cloudy day brings another delightful quality of light - softness. With little contrast
and few shadows, the image is left with a flat, but gentle aesthetic. With a hint of directional
shadow, this is great light source for portraiture. Backlighting This is one of my favourite light
sources. It entails placing the subject between the camera and the primary light source.
Depending on your angle and framing, you will acquire silhouetted images or have
uncontrollable flare bouncing directly into the lens - creating a very dynamic look.

Flash
The easiest way to add light to your image is to use your camera’s flash. This is not always the
most pleasing light source, but it can be used to great affect. Consider placing things across
your flash for varying results - cellophane, tracing paper, your t-shirt, or even your finger.
These tricks will reduce the power of the flash, soften it, or change its colour.

Some creative applications of flash include:

• Forced flash with a backlit subject - this is a fantastic way to shoot portraiture. It provides a
bright background scene while keeping your subject nicely lit.
• Slow Sync Flash - this is great for parties and night time scenes. It will add a little flavour
by creating blur in the image, yet keeping the flashed subject still and sharp.

Creative Lighting
Get creative... torches, camping headlights, car lights, lamps and candles all provide a very
unique and fun source of light. These will work best with cameras that perform well in low
light, but the happy accidents that arrive during the trying will keep you more than interested.

COMPOSITION

These basic rules are the building blocks of composition. The aim here is to create a visually
compelling photograph. The trick of the photographer is to arrange the elements to allow the
photograph to tell the story as they would like it to be told. It is true that a photograph is
worth a thousand words, and photographers are the ones that write them!

The Rule of Thirds

The basic principle behind the rule of thirds is to imagine breaking an image down into thirds
- both horizontally and vertically... By placing points of interest along these lines your photo
becomes more balanced and will enable a viewer of the image to interact with it more
naturally.
For landscapes, place the horizon line along either the top or the bottom third. The way to
determine which line you should place the horizon on, is to simply decide whether you want
to emphasize the sky or the foreground, and then give the majority of the frame to that
component. When you combine the horizontal and vertical, you obtain four very important
intersections. On one of these points is where you should place the main point of interest or
the subject.

When taking any photograph, ask yourself... what are the points of interest in this shot? Then
be sure to intentionally place them on a line or intersection relevant to the Rule of Thirds.

Other Compositional Elements to consider when taking or editing your photographs include...

Find a Clear Center of Interest

Self explanatory. Find something that captures you eye. Try to avoid distracting objects or
shadows.

Fill the Frame

If your pictures are not good enough, then you're probably not close enough. Get the subject
into the frame so there is no doubt what the photo is all about.

Leading Lines
This is an ideal way to guide your viewer into the depth of your image. Roads, fences or a
line of people are a great way to lead the eye towards the background of your image.

Create Depth
Consider including foreground and background elements. Also, use the aperture to create
depth. Make objects in front and behind your subject a little out of focus. This will provide
the effect that isolates the subject from the background and focuses attention on the subject.
Light and Dark
Basically light tones advance while dark tones retreat. Most people look at the lighter
portions of a photograph first.

Framing
This is the use of elements in the foreground to frame the object in focus. These may include
window frames, trees, hands or held objects.

Lines
Vertical lines emphasize power, strength, and height. Horizontal lines express stability and
width. Diagonal lines express dynamic energy. Curving lines express sensuality.

Depth of Field (DOF)

Depth of field is a characteristic of a camera that can be used to enhance the image
composition of the photo. DOF refers to the section of a photograph that appears to be in
sharp focus. In some cases, generally landscape photography, it is desirable to have the entire
image sharp, and a large DOF is appropriate. In other cases, portraiture or macro, a small
DOF may be more effective, emphasizing the subject while de-emphasizing the foreground
and background with blur.

The DOF is determined by the camera-to-subject distance, the lens focal length, the lens
aperture, and the format size.
• The closer the subject to the camera, the more shallow the depth of field.
• The longer the focal length, the more shallow the depth of field.
• The larger the aperture (smaller the F-number), the more shallow the depth of field.

EXPOSURE COMPENSATION (+/-)

Exposure compensation is a technique for adjusting the exposure indicated by a camera’s
light meter. Compensation can be either positive (additional exposure) or negative (reduced
exposure).

You may wish to adjust the exposure compensation purely for creative preferences or due to
unusual lighting distribution - direct sunlight with backlighting or sunset, highly reflective
surfaces (snow), or due to larger areas of light and dark within the image.

EXPOSURE BRACKETING
In many cases, I would recommend bracketing your exposures either manually or using the
AEB (Auto Exposure Bracketing) function if your camera has it. This technique is
particularly helpful with difficult to expose scenes and it simply involves capturing an image
over (brighter) and under (darker) of the recommended exposure.

SLOW SHUTTER SPEEDS

A slightly slower shutter speed will allow you to introduce an element of blur, either in the
subject, where the fastest moving element in the frame might be blurred while the rest
remains sharp; or if the camera is panned to follow a moving subject, the background is
blurred while the subject remains sharp.

ZOOM BURSTS
Zoom Burst is a technique which entails the variation of the focal length of a zoom lens
during a
longer exposure. In the moment that the shutter is opened, the lens is zoomed in, changing the
focal length during the exposure. The center of the image remains sharp, while the details
away from the center form a radial blur, which causes a strong visual effect, forcing the eye
into the center of the image.
THE ART OF SEEING with Pete Longworth
WHITE BALANCE
White Balance refers to the colour temperature of light. Depending on the source, the light
will appear to have a colour cast of warm orange tones or cooler blue tones.
• Houselights and candles create warm glowing light rich with yellow and orange tones.
• Flash or midday sunlight is considered neutral or as being a white light.
• Shadows, overcast days and night time are all cool light sources containing varying blue
tones.

By adjusting the camera’s white balance you have considerable control over the mood of
your images. The simple act of warming or cooling an image will portray very different
feelings and by experimenting in-camera, you can very simply improve your photography.
Cameras will generally provide the following options for controlling your white balance.

EXPOSURE
The quantity of light reaching a photographic film or sensor. This is determined by the
brightness of the scene, ISO, shutter speed and lens aperture.

Brightness of the Scene

Pretty simple... the amount of light on the subject or scene you are photographing.
This ranges from a photo at night without flash, to a sunny afternoon flooded with light.

ISO
The higher the ISO, the more sensitive the sensor or film is to light. ISO 100 is not
very sensitive, but has the finest quality. ISO 1600 is very sensitive to light.

Shutter Speed
This refers to the length of time that the shutter remains open allowing light to reach the film
or sensor. An exposure time of 1/1000th of a second lets the light through for a very short
time, while 4 seconds is long.
Aperture
The size of the opening that the light travels through. The larger the opening themore light
that is let in. The tricky thing to remember is the larger the number. That means an aperture
of f/22 is very small, while an aperture of f/4 or f/2.8 is very wide.

Scene Brightness, ISO, Shutter Speed and Aperture are all interrelated. If one is increased,
additional light would be captured, so to maintain balance, another one would need be
decreased, and vice versa.

The correlation of these factors provides endless creative options and will take a lifetime to
master. As a basic workflow, here is a priority list when determining your exposure.

1. The scene brightness is generally predetermined, though you may choose to control
the amount of light that is present. To increase the brightness in your scene, you could turn a
light on, use a flash or a torch, or even car headlights. To decrease the brightness, you may
turn lights off, close a blind, shoot in the shadows or block a light with a piece of cardboard.

2. ISO is the first thing to set on your camera. For the finest quality results, keep the ISO as
low as possible. In low light conditions, you will need to increase your ISO.

3. Aperture will determine the depth of field or range of focus in the image. So decide how
much of the scene you would like in focus and set your aperture accordingly. The higher the
number the more of the scene that will be in focus.

4. Shutter Speed will determine the amount of blur present in the image. A fast shutter speed
(1/500th or 1/2000th) will allow you to capture fast moving objects sharply. Slower shutter
speeds will generate blur if objects within the frame are moving - this can be a very effective
creative option. Slow shutter speeds combined with a tripod will allow you to capture low
light scenes without adding any light.

T
PHOTO JOURNALISM

INTRODUCTION
Photojournalism is the process of telling stories using photos as the medium. It uses a camera
to capture visual representations of a story. Photojournalism follows a set framework of rules
and principles for composition. The stories told using photos are supposedly true and thus
should be communicated in a fair and unbiased way. In photojournalism, the news photos often
evoke intense emotions among viewers, like shots of disaster survivors or scenes of a terrorist
attack. In print media the content is largely text and only certain stories are supported by photos.
In photojournalism, photographs are used to tell incidents, events and other important news. It
uses the body language and facial expressions of the subjects i.e. the people involved in the
incident to tell their story. As the term suggests, photojournalism is the fusion of photography
and journalism. It is used extensively in newspapers, news magazines, film magazines and
advertising magazines. Every newspaper and magazine takes the services of photojournalists
to cater to its audience. News photography is used in print and electronic media to convey the
stories and to reach out to maximum audience.

Photojournalism is an effective way of telling stories and disseminating information to a

diverse group of people. Photojournalism gives visual support to the news story. A good news
photo tells a story all on its own and requires little to no writing to back it up. Social media
tools like Instagram, Facebook, Snap chat, WhatsApp etc have made it really convenient for
people to share photos and videos. These tools are even being used by the news organizations
to disseminate news. Youtube provides space to people and organizations so that they can start
their own channels where viewers can come and see the videos on a variety of subjects.
Photographs paint real pictures of news, events and varied human
emotions.

In big newspapers and magazines, photographers work with a journalist assigned to a particular
news beat. This means that the photographer takes photos related to the new story and the
reporter collects the facts for the story and writes it. The main objective of photojournalism is
to tell a story better than the text or writeup that usually accompanies the photos. Therefore, it
should capture images that have a specific meaning or relevance to the story being told. For
example, a story about a father reunited with his daughter after being apart for 30 years will be
more effective if it is accompanied by a photo showing them rushing into each other’s arms.

Photojournalism covers latest national and international news developments which are of
public interest. A good photojournalist will focus on latest news which is being discussed by
the common man for example the current cricket tournament series or the announcement of
elections etc. which will be of more interest to the reader. A good photojournalist should be
objective and honest. He should present the images as they are with no manipulation. In fact a
photojournalist knows that real emotions of people are captured when they are relaxed and
busy with their daily chores. These candid and perfect moments are captured by the lens and
become timeless classics. A good photograph should try to answer maximum number of Ws
and H. For example, a photo that shows a family of four begging for food and money tells a
clearer story than a single person begging for food. Photojournalists follow certain principles
to produce photos that catch the attention of different audiences. Photos taken with the right
focus, exposure, angle and color are understood better by larger audience as compared to photos
in which the subject is not in focus and which lack proper camera angle. Photojournalism can
be done for -
a) General News Stories, which pertains to any event that is planned ahead of time.
Examples are press conferences, product launch ceremonies, exhibitions and political
rallies.

b) Spot or Breaking News, refers to any event or incident that has just happened. It is a
breaking news story where the photojournalist rushes to the place of the incident and
takes shots which convey the essence of the story. A house or building on fire, car
accident, plane crash or a bridge collapse are some of the examples.

c) Sports Photography is seen as the most difficult type of photojournalism. The camera
lens has to follow the movement of the player, ball or the vehicle as the case may be.
Special attention has to be given to the aperture and shutter speed settings. Generally
experienced photojournalists are given sports assignments like basketball game, a
football championship match or an IPL match.

d) Portrait Photojournalism: a portrait shows people from the society in their usual
environment, like a race car driver beside his car, a doctor inside the operating theatre
or the defence minister in her office. The portrait captures the emotional state of the
person. Portrait is often given in an exclusive interview or any special report where that
person happens to be a central figure or an important functionary.

Good photos convey the key points of a story faster than its accompanying text. The photos
should focus on the faces of the people and not on their backs. A good photo will show the
person doing some action or group of people involved in some activity. Any unusual
photograph showing a new phenomenon, emotion or extraordinary act may qualify as a good
photograph. The subject has to be in focus and the audience should be able to find the key area
to focus on in the frame. For example after a heavy snowfall the focus of one picture can be on
the sufferings of the people living in that area and other picture can be on the extent of snowfall
i.e. the amount of snowfall. The photographer through right composition and proper
visualization has to convey the right message, one that should be able to tell the audience where
to look in the photo. Any two pictures will have two different angles for a story. This sort of
work needs careful planning and execution. Always take note of the angle of the shots and
position of the camera before taking the pictures. Experienced photographers often take
multiple shots from different perspectives. This process is quite easy with digital cameras.
Digital Single-lens Reflex Camera (DSLR) manufactured by Nikon, Cannon, Sony, Fuji etc.
support memory cards as high as 128 GB or so. They can also at the same time see the output
and take many shots without worrying about the storage space.

History of Photojournalism
The history of photojournalism can be traced back to the experiments done by Joseph
Nicephore. In 1826 Joseph Nicephore slotted a pewter (a alloy of tin, copper with antimony)
plate into his camera obscura and exposed that plate to the surroundings. He washed this
exposed plate with lavender oil after eight hours and found that an image had formed on the
plate. This image was not very clear but the scene was more or less visible. Joseph Nicephore
claimed it to be the first photograph, built without a negative. Carol Szathmari a Romanian
painter and photographer was among the first who did photojournalism with the help of his
engraving and painting technique. This engraving technique was also used in the American
Civil war.

The first 35mm Leica camera came in 1925 and this marked the beginning of the Golden Age
of Photojournalism. First commercial flash bulbs came in 1927. The early 35 mm camera was
small and light. They were more portable and the printing methods used in these cameras were
less cumbersome. Prominent photographers in the golden age which spanned from 1930s to
1960s included Walker Evan, Dorothea and Gordon Parks. Homai Vyarawalla is recognized as
the first woman photojournalist of India. She was born in Gujarat and it was her husband
Manekshaw Vyarawalla who introduced her to the world of photography.

Homai Vyarawalla

Tamabarahalli Subramanya Satyanarayana Iyer, popularly known as T S Satyan is known as

the father of Indian Photojournalism. He was born in Mysore in 1923. In 2005 T S Satyan
published his memoir “Alive and Kicking” in which has mentioned his experiences and various
assignments he did in his life as a photojournalist. T S Satyan passed away in 2009.
(A) Long Questions

1. What are the fundamental aspects that guide every element of photography, according to
the text?
2. Explain the significance of light, subject, and composition in photography, as outlined in
the text.
3. Describe various lighting techniques mentioned in the text and their creative applications
in photography.
4. Discuss the basic rules of composition in photography and how they contribute to creating
visually compelling photographs.
5. What is photojournalism, and how does it differ from other forms of photography? Explain
its importance in storytelling and news dissemination, as discussed in the text.

(B) Short Notes:

1. Fundamental Aspects of Photography

2. Lighting Techniques in Photography
3. Composition Principles
4. Depth of Field
5. Exposure Control
6. Photojournalism
7. History of Photojournalism
8. Role of Photojournalists
9. Techniques in Photojournalism.
10. Impact of Social Media
(C) MCQs:

1. What are the three fundamental aspects that guide every element of photography according
to the text?
a) Light, Camera, Action b) Light, Subject, Composition
c) Subject, Aperture, Shutter Speed d) Subject, Exposure, Flash

2. Which time of day is considered ideal for taking photographs due to the quality of light?
a) Noon b) Midnight c) Pre-dawn and dusk d) Afternoon

3. What does "dragging" refer to in the context of photography according to the text?
a) Using a camera with a slow shutter speed
b) Moving the camera quickly to capture motion blur
c) Convincing someone to participate in a photo shoot
 d) Adjusting the exposure compensation settings

4. What is the primary benefit of using shade or shooting on a cloudy day?

a) Strong contrast and vibrant colors b) Soft and gentle light with minimal shadows
c) Harsh and bright light with deep shadows d) Dynamic backlighting effects

5. What is the effect of using backlighting in photography?

a) It creates harsh shadows on the subject.
b) It softens the overall lighting in the scene.
c) It produces silhouetted images or lens flare.
d) It reduces the need for additional lighting equipment.

6. What is a recommended technique for improving the quality of flash photography?

a) Using the flash at maximum power for dramatic effect
b) Directing the flash towards the subject from the side
c) Placing objects across the flash to modify its intensity or soften its light
d) Avoiding flash altogether and relying solely on natural light

7. Which of the following is NOT a creative application of flash mentioned in the text?
a) Forced flash with a backlit subject
b) Slow Sync Flash for adding blur in night time scenes
c) Flash photography in direct sunlight for high contrast images
d) Using flash with long exposure for light painting effects

8. What is suggested as a fun and unique source of light for photography?

a) Studio lighting equipment b) Natural sunlight
c) LED panels d) Torches, car lights, and candles

9. What does the "Rule of Thirds" suggest in photography composition?

a) Dividing the frame into three equal parts horizontally and vertically
b) Placing the subject directly in the center of the frame
c) Filling the frame entirely with the subject
d) Aligning the horizon with either the top or bottom third of the frame

10. How can leading lines contribute to the composition of a photograph?

a) By creating a sense of depth and guiding the viewer's eye
b) By adding symmetry and balance to the composition
c) By framing the subject with elements in the foreground
d) By emphasizing the subject's mood and atmosphere

11. What is the purpose of creating depth in a photograph?

a) To blur the background and make the subject stand out
b) To emphasize the subject's emotional state
c) To simplify the composition and focus on the main subject
d) To guide the viewer's eye and enhance the sense of space

12. Which of the following best describes the relationship between light and dark tones in
photography?
a) Dark tones advance, while light tones retreat.
b) Light tones advance, while dark tones retreat.
 c) Both light and dark tones advance equally.
d) Light and dark tones have no effect on each other.

13. What is the purpose of framing in photography composition?

a) To add visual interest to the background
b) To isolate the subject from distractions
c) To create symmetry and balance in the composition
d) To blur the edges of the image for a dreamy effect

14. How does aperture affect the depth of field in a photograph?

a) A wider aperture creates a larger depth of field.
b) A narrower aperture creates a larger depth of field.
c) A wider aperture creates a shallower depth of field.
d) A narrower aperture creates a shallower depth of field.

15. Which factor determines the quantity of light reaching a photographic film or sensor?
a) ISO b) Shutter speed c) Aperture d) Scene brightness

16. Who is considered the father of Indian Photojournalism?

a) Homai Vyarawalla b) T S Satyan c) Joseph Nicephore d) Carol Szathmari

17. What marked the beginning of the Golden Age of Photojournalism?

a) Invention of the first 35mm Leica camera b) Introduction of commercial flash bulbs
c) Experimentation by Joseph Nicephore d) Engraving technique used in the American
Civil War

18. Which camera manufacturer is mentioned as producing DSLR cameras in the text?
a) Nikon b) Leica c) Kodak d) Polaroid

19. Who introduced Homai Vyarawalla to the world of photography?

a) Walker Evans b) T S Satyam c) Dorothea Lange d) Manekshaw Vyarawalla

20. What did Joseph Nicephore use to develop his early photographs?
a) Lavender oil b) Darkroom chemicals c) Fixer solution d) Photographic paper

21. What type of news photography refers to events that are planned ahead of time?
a) General News Stories b) Spot or Breaking News
c) Sports Photography d) Portrait Photojournalism

22. Which type of news event requires the photographer to rush to the scene to capture shots?
a) General News Stories b) Spot or Breaking News
c) Sports Photography d) Portrait Photojournalism

23. Who are often given sports photography assignments?

a) Novice photographers b) Experienced photojournalists
c) Interns d) Paparazzi

24. What is the main objective of photojournalism?

a) To manipulate images for dramatic effect
b) To capture images with no relevance to the story
 c) To tell a story better than accompanying text
d) To promote a biased narrative

25. What is a key characteristic of a good news photo?

a) Blurriness b) Lack of composition
c) Ability to stand alone and tell a story d) Poor lighting

26. Which social media tools are mentioned in the text as being used for sharing photos and
videos?
a) Instagram, Facebook, Snap chat b) Twitter, LinkedIn, Pinterest
c) TikTok, Tumblr, Reddit d) YouTube, Vimeo, Flickr

27. What does a portrait in photojournalism typically capture?

a) Landscapes b) Animals
c) People in their usual environment d) Abstract art

28. Which principle of photojournalism emphasizes capturing real emotions?

a) Composition b) Lighting c) Objectivity d) Candid moments

29. What historical event marked the beginning of photojournalism as we know it today?
a) Invention of the first camera b) American Civil War
c) Golden Age of Photojournalism d) Introduction of DSLR cameras

30. What is a common characteristic of photos taken during the Golden Age of
Photojournalism?
a) Heavy editing and manipulation b) Use of large format cameras
c) Portable 35mm cameras d) Lack of interest in social issues

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and practice Publications,
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T OF SEEING with Pete LongworthOF SEEING with Pete Longworth