How To Send Your Photos To Global News

by Jhon Lennon 39 views

So, you've got an amazing photo or video that you think Global News should see? Maybe you captured a breaking news event, a stunning weather phenomenon, or just something incredibly heartwarming or funny. That's awesome! Getting your content to a major news outlet can be pretty straightforward, but there are a few key things to keep in mind to increase your chances of it being seen and used. Let’s dive into the best ways to get your visuals to Global News.

Understanding What Global News Looks For

Before you even think about sending your picture or video, it's super important to understand what kind of content Global News typically looks for. News organizations are generally interested in visuals that are:

  • Timely: Is it happening right now, or did it just happen? News is all about what’s current.
  • Relevant: Does it affect the local community or have broader national significance?
  • Newsworthy: Does it capture a unique event, a significant moment, or something that the public needs to know?
  • High Quality: While not always possible, clear and stable images or videos are much more likely to be used. Blurry or shaky footage can be a tough sell.
  • Exclusive: Is this something that no one else has captured? Exclusivity can significantly increase the value of your submission.

Think about your picture or video in these terms. Does it tick these boxes? If so, great! You’re on the right track. If not, it might still be worth sending, but understanding these criteria will help you manage your expectations.

Finding the Right Contact Information

Okay, you’ve got your awesome visual content and you know it’s something Global News would be interested in. Now, how do you actually get it to them? The first step is to find the right contact information. Here’s how you can do that:

  • Official Website: Head over to the Global News website. Usually, there's a "Contact Us" or "Submit News" section. Look for email addresses or online forms specifically for submitting photos or videos.
  • Social Media: Check their social media profiles (Twitter, Facebook, etc.). Sometimes they have specific calls for user-generated content or instructions on how to send media. Keep an eye out for hashtags they might be using.
  • Local Station: If your content is specific to a certain region, find the contact info for your local Global News station. It might be more relevant to them than the national headquarters.
  • News Tips Email: Many news organizations have a general news tips email address. While not specifically for photos, it can be a good starting point.

Make sure you’re sending your content to the most appropriate contact. Sending a local story to a national email might mean it gets overlooked.

Preparing Your Photo or Video

Before you hit that send button, take a moment to prepare your photo or video. This can make a big difference in how it's received.

  • File Format: Make sure your file is in a common format like JPEG for photos or MP4 for videos. Avoid obscure formats that might not be easily opened.
  • File Size: Large files can be difficult to send and receive. Try to compress your file without sacrificing too much quality. There are many free online tools to help with this.
  • Resolution: While you want to compress the file, ensure the resolution is still decent. A blurry, low-resolution image is less likely to be used.
  • Metadata: Include important information in the file metadata, such as the date, time, location, and a brief description of what’s happening in the photo or video. This helps the news team understand the context.
  • Watermark (Optional): If you're concerned about unauthorized use, you can add a subtle watermark with your name or initials. However, keep it minimal so it doesn't distract from the image itself.

Crafting Your Email or Submission Message

The message you send along with your photo or video is just as important as the content itself. Here’s how to make it effective:

  • Subject Line: Be clear and concise. Something like "Photo of [Event] in [Location]" or "Video of [Breaking News Event]" works well.
  • Introduction: Briefly introduce yourself and explain why you’re sending the photo or video.
  • Description: Provide a detailed description of what’s happening in the visual. Include who, what, when, where, and why.
  • Context: Add any relevant background information that might help the news team understand the significance of the event.
  • Exclusivity: If you haven’t sent the photo or video to any other news outlets, be sure to mention that it’s exclusive.
  • Contact Information: Include your name, phone number, and email address so they can easily get in touch with you.
  • Rights and Permissions: State that you own the rights to the photo or video and that you grant Global News permission to use it. Be clear about any conditions or restrictions.

Example Email:

Subject: Photo of flash flood in downtown Calgary

Dear Global News Team,

My name is [Your Name], and I’m a resident of Calgary. I’m sending you a photo I took earlier today of the flash flood in downtown Calgary. The photo shows [brief description of the scene].

This happened at approximately 3:00 PM MDT on July 12, 2024, at the intersection of 8th Avenue and 4th Street SW. The flooding was caused by a sudden and intense downpour.

This photo is exclusive to Global News at this time. I have not sent it to any other news outlets.

You can reach me at [Your Phone Number] or [Your Email Address]. I own the rights to this photo and grant Global News permission to use it for news purposes.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely, [Your Name]

Sending via Online Forms

Some news organizations, including Global News, might have online forms specifically designed for user submissions. These forms often include fields for descriptions, contact information, and permissions. Filling out these forms carefully ensures that all the necessary information is included.

  • Read the Instructions: Pay close attention to any instructions or guidelines provided on the form.
  • Complete All Fields: Fill out all required fields accurately and thoroughly.
  • Double-Check: Before submitting, double-check all the information to ensure there are no errors or omissions.

Following Up (But Not Too Much!)

After you’ve sent your photo or video, it’s okay to follow up, but be mindful not to be too pushy. Newsrooms are busy places, and it might take them some time to review your submission.

  • Wait a Few Days: Give them at least a few days to review your content before following up.
  • Keep It Brief: When you follow up, keep your message brief and polite. Simply ask if they had a chance to review your submission and if they need any further information.
  • Respect Their Decision: If they decline to use your photo or video, respect their decision. There could be many reasons why it wasn’t a good fit for them at that time.

Understanding Usage Rights

It's important to understand how news organizations typically use user-submitted content. By sending your photo or video to Global News, you’re generally granting them a license to use it in their broadcasts, online articles, and social media posts. However, you still retain the copyright to your work unless you specifically transfer it.

  • Terms and Conditions: Read the terms and conditions on the Global News website or submission form to understand the specific usage rights you’re granting.
  • Credit: Typically, news organizations will credit you as the photographer or videographer if they use your content. Make sure your name is clearly associated with your submission.
  • Compensation: Unless otherwise agreed, you’re generally not compensated for user-submitted content. However, in some cases, particularly for exclusive or high-impact visuals, news organizations might offer payment.

What to Do If Your Content Is Used

Congratulations! Global News used your photo or video! Here are a few things you can do:

  • Watch and Listen: Keep an eye out for your content on Global News broadcasts and online platforms.
  • Share It: Share the news story or clip on your own social media channels.
  • Keep a Record: Save a copy of the broadcast or article for your portfolio.
  • Brag (a Little): It’s okay to be proud of your contribution! Let your friends and family know.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Sending Low-Quality Content: Blurry, shaky, or poorly composed photos or videos are less likely to be used.
  • Failing to Provide Context: Without a clear description and background information, it’s difficult for the news team to understand the significance of your submission.
  • Being Too Pushy: Repeatedly contacting the newsroom or demanding immediate attention can be off-putting.
  • Ignoring Copyright Issues: Make sure you own the rights to the content you’re submitting and that you’re not infringing on anyone else’s copyright.
  • Sending to the Wrong Outlet: Ensure your content is relevant to Global News and their audience. Sending irrelevant material can waste their time and diminish your credibility.

In Conclusion

Getting your photos and videos to Global News can be an exciting and rewarding experience. By understanding what they’re looking for, preparing your content carefully, and following the steps outlined above, you can increase your chances of having your work seen by a wide audience. Good luck, and happy submitting!