IPhones have apps that enhance traditional reporting for journalists.
The widespread popularity of the iPhone has influenced the role of a journalist by enhancing the ability to report with speed and multimedia features. Many now consider iPhones or other popular smartphones to be a necessity for any reporter. The University of Missouri School of Journalism now requires journalism students to own an iPhone or comparable smartphone. Brian Brooks, the school's associate dean for undergraduate studies, explained "It's like asking an engineer to buy a calculator."
Multimedia Photos and Videos
In addition to providing written articles, the modern day journalist is expected to be a digital whiz. With iPhones, they can capture high-quality photos and videos and enhance those digital images without lugging around heavy equipment. Apps such as Camera+, Pro HDR, FiLMiC Pro and 1st Video enable users to edit images and videos to enhance quality. This can be vital when a journalist is in the field reporting. In addition to enhancing the quality of these images, using an iPhone enables journalists to capture images discreetly.
Clear Audio
Clear audio files are essential for two reasons: they can provide crisp sound bites and they can cover a journalist's back. Broadcast journalists rely on high-quality audio for their programs. Every journalist is expected to keep notes and audio files to support the quotes and facts presented in stories. ISaidWhat?!, Audioboo and SoundCloud are three popular apps for recording, editing and sharing audio on the iPhone. According to the Journalism.co website, journalists at the KM Group, a media company based in England, and Wired.co.uk currently use SoundCloud for their multiplatform reporting and podcasts.
Real-Time Reporting
Using iPhones, reporters can report directly from wherever a story is taking place whether they broadcast via Skype, send in video and images, or file copy. The modern day newsroom runs essentially 24 hours, seven days a week, and filing new stories and content on tight deadlines is critical. Mark Johnson, community editor at the Economist, said that using social media allows the publication to connect with its readers and expand readership.
Social Media
IPhones offer many apps that allow journalists to stay connected via social media while on the go, including Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and live blogging tools. In addition to sharing content, these tools allow journalists to find new angles on articles, access new sources and conduct interviews. In addition to reporting, journalists can use social media tools to expand their personal brand and that of the publication they represent.
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