- Most television anchors have a degree in journalism with considerable study in electronic communications. While not always the case, a news anchor may also have practical experience in acting, television production and other theatrical or performing arts. News journalists chosen for the anchor position are usually among the most experienced reporters, with a minimum of two years field reporting experience. Frequently, news anchors have been reporting for five or more years before being tapped for an anchor position in larger television markets.
- While you may only think of the anchor functioning on camera at the center of a news set, the real work begins many hours prior to the broadcast. A news anchor's day typically begins with a briefing on the developing news stories, learning which reporters have been assigned to cover which stories, and what special assignments, if any, the anchor will be expected to fulfill. Because the news is constantly changing, the anchor participates with producers and editors to revise program content throughout the day. The anchor will frequently write or edit the news copy they are expected to read, and interact with reporters for briefings on the outcomes of their assignments.
- As the newscast approaches, the anchor is apprised of last-minute changes in content or a new sequence for how stories will be presented. They spend their final moments carefully re-reading the news copy they will deliver, often making notes about which words or phrases to emphasize. Some stories require a different "voice." A good anchor will be so familiar with the content, they can adjust quickly between "happy" stories and tragic ones, using an appropriate vocal inflection for each.
- The modern news anchor depends on a device known as a teleprompter. A teleprompter scrolls news copy displayed from a video monitor into a mirrored mechanism which displays the words directly in front of the camera lens. An anchor is accustomed to using a teleprompter, knowing the preferred rate of speed in which the text appears. An experienced anchor seamlessly transitions to a printed copy of the script they keep in front of them, keeping track of where they are should the teleprompter fail.
- An anchor is assisted by a floor crew that directs him towards the live camera and gives him cues on when to break for a commercial or taped segment. A successful anchor is adept at multi-tasking, with an ability to read copy while taking verbal instructions from his producer through an earpiece. The anchor recognizes his success is the direct result of a team effort
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