How to capture content on Election Day

PBS News Student Reporting Labs needs your help! We’re looking for students to film video content on Election Day, November 5, 2024.

1. Election Day B-roll:

Capture a b-roll, or supplemental, visually interesting video content of young people voting at the polls or entering voting sites like schools, public buildings, etc. Capture a variety of angles, like wide shots and close-ups. Keep in mind that this footage may be used for general election coverage in the future, so try to avoid capturing signage with “2024 election” on it. Remember to film horizontally, using a tripod or a stable surface, and hold each shot for at least 15 seconds. Note: Check your state’s Department of Elections website for guidelines on filming at polling locations.

2. Person-on-the-street interviews

Interview young people as they leave the polls/election site. Ask them about their experience. OR Find some young people who were eligible but who’ve decided not to vote in this year’s election. Ask them why they made that decision. Remember to film vertically using your phone and ask people to rephrase the question in their answer.

Here are some suggested questions (note: after you hit record, always ask the person you’re interviewing to say and spell their full name on camera):

1. How did it feel like to vote?
2. Or why did you decide to not vote this year?
3. Why did you think it was important to vote?
4. Do you think your vote matters? Why or why not?
5. How do you think you'll remember about this election?
6. What is the issue you care about most?

3. First-time voter vlog

Take the audience along on your first time casting your vote on election day. Watch this example here

Submit your footage ASAP using this form on Election Day (November 5, 2024).

For any questions, email Rawan Elbaba at rawan@reportinglabs.org or Caroline Frentz at caroline@reportinglabs.org.

Examples:

SRL's social media producer votes in person for the first time

Portland student stops by a ballot box