KTRK: Houston's News Leader

Eyewitness News Legacy - 10pm Night Team Promo from ABC13 on Vimeo.

CrimeWatch with Chris Hansen

Crime Watch Daily on PIX11 from PIX11 Creative on Vimeo.

Holiday Snow

KTVT in Dallas made some holiday magic with this spot:

Writer/Producer Position at KENS in San Antonio

I could tell you how awesome San Antonio is -- but why not see for yourself?




KENS 5, the TEGNA station in the Alamo City, has an immediate opening for a Writer/Producer.

Work in one of America's top cities creating marketing messages for all platforms. 

We're looking for highly creative people who want to create award-winning work.

This is a dream gig for the right person.

Contact me a dsmith@kens5.com to learn more!

WGN Merry Own Giveaway

I've always liked this pop-up look for a holiday spot.  Well done, WGN:


Chicago's Merry Own Giveaway from Kristi Stone on Vimeo.

November POPs

At the end of a long book -- the last thing many stations have to do is the POP... showcasing their work from the last month.

Here are a couple of examples from around the country:

November 2016 | POP from ABC30 Creative on Vimeo.

November Sweeps Post-PoP from WFTV/WRDQ Creative on Vimeo.

WRAL Apologizes

When Dave Chapelle hosted "Saturday Night Live" a couple of weeks ago - he used some pretty salty language. 

I was actually expecting a big deal to be made of it.  But nothing came of his cursing on live television-- except in Raleigh Durham, NC -- where WRAL actually censored it.

Instead of being upset that curse words were being blasted on network TV - the viewers were upset that WRAL had chosen to use a long held decency standards policy - and block the words from its viewers.

Viewers pointed out that its a late night comedy show and that no one's ears started bleeding because of Chapelle's language.  They didn't like having SNL censored for them.

WRAL heard them loud and clear... and aired this spot on Saturday during SNL:

Ticking Clock

Quick... which long running news magazine show uses a ticking clock?

 

The answer, of course, is 20/20.  Wait.  What?


I wonder if that spot was an attempt to confuse people - because the real ticking clock show, 60 Minutes, actually has an interview with Trump on Sunday:

WBZ: Everything

Fast paced, engaging, conversational...  well done, WBZ!

Post Election Comedy Spots

Well done, perfectly timed spots out of Dallas:

WGN Cubs Promo

Was there anyone NOT watching that game last night?

CONGRATULATIONS CHICAGO!!!

We're all a little sleepy this morning - so I apologize for having you jump through a hoop - but its worth it.

I couldn't find a terrific WGN spot on Youtube or Vimeo - but it was featured today on one of my favorite websites, FTVLive. 

Please click the link and enjoy.

http://www.ftvlive.com/sqsp-test/2016/11/3/this-is-how-you-do-a-station-promo

WRAL Investigates Daycares

I'm a big fan of shooting things practically -- and skipping the generic b-roll.

Here is a nice spot from WRAL that does just that:

WCVB 11pm/Jimmy Kimmel

 WCVB in Boston made the most of a visit from late night star Jimmy Kimmel.


WCVB/Jimmy Kimmel Live - Every Weeknight from Richard Feindel on Vimeo.

WCBS Mobile Weather Lab

For some of us -- shooting our news vehicles include duct tape and hanging out the back of a van.

But at WCBS in New York -- the awesome team of Bruce Brauer, Lee Grossman and company - did it up right.

Check out this behind the scenes look:

BTS Chevy Mobile Weather Lab promotion for WCBS from Erik Brauer on Vimeo.


And a couple of music videos they created with the materials:

Mobile Weather Lab Music Video from Erik Brauer on Vimeo.

WXIA Investigators

WXIA Investigators fall 2016 from PileofPixels on Vimeo.

Debate Topical

Here is a topical for Fox31 in Denver - to promote their debate coverage last night. 

They took things to the next level - by putting boxing gloves on the candidates.  Definitely grabs attention(as opposed to basic debate file footage).  What do you think?

Final 2016 Debate Topical from KDVR/KWGN Promotions on Vimeo.

It's Called "Promo Gold"

WFTV in Orlando posted this promo featuring the best promo line you'll ever get for a weather POP:

"Channel 9 saved my life."

Here's their spot -

Hurricane Matthew POP “Thank You” D from WFTV/WRDQ Creative on Vimeo.

KSL Image: Growth

KMOV Senior Producer JOB ALERT

KMOV is looking for a talented Senior Producer to join its award-winning creative team. We are the Meredith-owned CBS affiliate under the Arch in St. Louis!

At KMOV you will specialize in conception, writing, and post-production including editing, color grading, motion graphics and sound design. Collaborate with a talented team of cinematographers, producers, and designers. The ideal candidate will be creatively driven with a strong understanding of contemporary production techniques.

If you often hear compliments like “Wow, that looks national!” then come join a team of people who share your passion and energy for making great and memorable local work. We have all the right tools; looking for one more person who knows the tricks.

News marketing experience preferred. Applicants who do not include a link to their production work will not be considered.
To apply, go here https://meredith.wd5.myworkdayjobs.com/en-US/EXT/job/Missouri-St-Louis/Senior-Producer-Creative-Services_JR02489

Everywhere I Go

This was produced by Steven Arnold and is airing on WBNS in Columbus, Ohio.


"Everywhere I Go" - :60 Sample Spot from Stephen Arnold Music on Vimeo.

#VanSelfie

"There goes that news van again" gets an update from WPVI in Philly.

Here - they invite viewers to take a selfie with their "famous" news vans.

6abc Promo - Van Selfie Full-Lenth :30 from 6abc Creative on Vimeo.

ABC30 Action News Live at 6

ABC30 Action News | Live at Six (Image :30) from ABC30 Creative on Vimeo.

When Giraffes Attack!

KFMB in San Diego had a fun moment on their morning show - as a giraffe got a little friendly with their reporter.

http://www.adweek.com/tvspy/giraffe-molests-san-diego-reporter-on-live-tv/178362

Here's the promo the station created to take advantage of this great viral moment:

WCVB: Here

Beautifully shot spot out of Boston:

WCVB: Here from Richard Feindel on Vimeo.

Side Matters

A cool spot out of Chicago:

2016 Crosstown Cup Week on WGN from Ryan Johnson on Vimeo.

Dare to Defy

New launch spots for the CW station in Eastern Iowa.

Five on 2

WDTN in Dayton sent along this spot:

Five on 2 Image 2016 from Harry Boeddeker on Vimeo.

Verify

This is a cool new project being started for the TEGNA stations in Texas. Here is the launch spot from our talented friends at WFAA:

VERIFY LAUNCH 30 from WFAA Marketing on Vimeo.

WFAA: Brave Speaks from the Heart.

Dale Hansen is the longtime sports anchor for WFAA in Dallas. He is well known for his commentary and has even been featured on "Ellen" after some of his comments. He speaks about a wide variety of hot button issues. These three spots utilize Dale's strongly worded editorials in a dramatic fashion. Does everyone agree with him? No. Is it an interesting campaign of spots? Absolutely.

Dale Hansen: Domestic Violence from Brandon Baker on Vimeo.

Dale Hansen: NFL Homophobia from Brandon Baker on Vimeo.

Dale Hansen: Racism from Brandon Baker on Vimeo.

NBC Bay Area: We Investigate

Weather Man versus Weather App

If you've ever wondered how to get people to watch your weathercaster versus just looking at an app - here's a good way to do it:

KGW Olympic - App Man - Umbrella from KGW Creative on Vimeo.

WLWT: Cincinnati Anthem

CINCINNATI ANTHEM WLWT OLYMPICS from christina rule on Vimeo.

Kids Free Comedy

WRAL: Relentless Pursuit of Excellence

Updated spots from WRAL:

KHOU: Roll Up Your Sleeves

The execution on this new spot from KHOU is flawless.  Featuring a poem from Brother Said, it builds with such great energy.  Kudos to my friends who created this.

Tragedy in Dallas

I watched it all unfold last night on WFAA's live stream through their app.  Senseless tragedy.

News stations are often called upon to produce a spot or spots following an event like this.

Here are two entirely different approaches, both effective... produced mere hours after this horrific shooting. 

From KTVT:





From WFAA:

DPD Stand United __10 from WFAA Creative on Vimeo.

Mobile 11

KTVT in Dallas had some fun at the racetrack producing this one!:

A Personal Announcement

After 7 great years here in Sacramento, I am moving on.

Beginning July 18 - I will be the new Director of Marketing for KENS-TV in San Antonio, TX.

This is a station and market I am all too familiar with.  I worked there from 1998 - 2001 and fell in love with the city and KENS5.  I'm thrilled to be going back. 

The move will put us much closer to my mother, father, sister and brothers - along with many friends and extended family.

I will follow in the footsteps of three great former KENS CSDs who taught me a ton as I was growing up in this business - Allen Lansing, Dale Lockett and Stan Melton.  All great guys.

I will be leaving behind KOVR/KMAX in Sacramento.  Truly one of the best places I have ever worked.  From General Manager Kevin Walsh's guidance and creative freedom to the very best staff in the country -- I will miss this place.  I have never had the honor of working with such a talented team and I know they will prosper long into the future.  Seriously the best.

Sacramento has been a great place to call home and raise our son.  I'm excited to introduce my wife and Henry to San Antonio.

More to come as I embark on this next chapter.  And hey - if anyone knows of a good Promo Manager or producer -- send them my way!   donsjr@hotmail.com

TXA21 Comedy Justice Avengers League

WABC Image

wabc_ be an eyewitness from WABC-TV Creative on Vimeo.

wabc early ones from WABC-TV Creative on Vimeo.

Orlando Strong

Today - I am thinking of all of my friends in the Orlando area who are dealing with this horrific tragedy.  My heart breaks for the city beautiful.

KHOU Meteorologist Promo

This spot shows how KHOU is using social media to connect with Houston viewers:

WBZ: Boston's Most Watched Station

WBTV: Like Us on Facebook

This was created spefically for the Facebook feed to help gain likes:

WLWT POP

 From Cincinnati: 

WLWT May Pop_30 from NISHAN GILMET on Vimeo.

The Big Apple Wants YOU!

WABC-TV, New York’s #1 station, seeks a staff Promotion Producer & Digital Content Creator.  We need an imaginative preditor who has experience turning daily topical news into top notch on-air creative and viral digital content.

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES:

1.  Conceptualize, produce, write, shoot and edit high-end promos for News, Programming, Sales and Public Affairs.

2.  Work alongside a team of producers to create audio/visual promotional content for on-air, online and social.

3.  Work in a fast-paced, deadline driven, creative environment.

4. Create custom content for various social platforms, driving tune-in and engagement.

5. Feed creative to outside vendors for various off-air advertising campaigns.

JOB REQUIREMENTS:

1.  A minimum of 5 years of work experience in broadcast television promotion.

2.  In-depth knowledge of Final Cut Pro, Avid or Premiere.

3.  Basic After Effects or Motion skills necessary.

4.  Extensive experience working with news staff to take daily news stories and turn them into compelling promos.

5.  Experience directing, lighting and shooting is a plus.

8.  Ability to learn and adjust to new television and digital technology.

9.  A professional, positive, outgoing personality who takes initiative without supervision to improve on-air and social production.

TO APPLY: 

Please log on to:  www.disneycareers.com and search for Requisition ID#373121BR.  You must also send cover letter, reel (e -link).

NO PHONE CALLS PLEASE. WABC-TV, an owned station of ABC, Inc., is an Equal Opportunity Employer– Female/Minority/Veteran/Disability/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity

KGW Traffic App

I'm really digging the work from KGW lately.  Here is another, simple yet effective spot:

15 KGW News App Memorial Day Weekend from KGW Creative on Vimeo.

Some Bullshit Is Happening Somewhere

Because sweeps is coming to an end, I thought you could all use a laugh. 

WARNING:  Not safe for work due to strong language... so hide in your edit bay, turn down the speakers and enjoy. 

Most Interesting Chief Meteorologist

From Fox5 in Vegas:

DUI Test

This sweeps spot effectively uses a POV shot to sell the story:


WLWT SWEEPS PROMO: DUI TEST from NISHAN GILMET on Vimeo.

KDKA: Pittsburgh's News

PITTSBURGH'S NEWS from KDKA-TV News on Vimeo.

WKYC: See the Possible Rap

WKYC has done some interesting things with their brand.  This is the latest offering:

KGW Homeless

Nicely shot spot out of Portland:

KGW Homeless POB from KGW Creative on Vimeo.

WGN Ad Controversy

WGN recently put out this ad, featuring a quote from a competitor's anchor.  True quote -- but he's certainly not happy about it.

So what do you think?  Fair or unfair?  Would you do it?

We Are Austin

This spot was shot in a very different/cool style.  Check it out:

ABC7: the Blue Mic

Blue Mic Proof of Brand from Christopher Dutton on Vimeo.
Blue Mic Marc & Michelle from Christopher Dutton on Vimeo.

Dave's Final Putt

A fun spot out of Tampa as one of their anchors retires:

KYW: Like Us

Another great spot from KYW:

Like Us! KGW8 from KGW Creative on Vimeo.

KGW Image

Three new spots from KGW in Portland:

KTVU: TV Wherever

KTVU Mobile - TV Wherever 1 from KTVU Marketing on Vimeo.


KTVU Mobile - TV Wherever 2 from KTVU Marketing on Vimeo.


KTVU Mobile - TV Wherever 3 from KTVU Marketing on Vimeo.

Election 2016

An election spot from WHIO in Ohio.


ELECTION 2016 from PileofPixels on Vimeo.

WLWT: Certified Most Accurate

For the past five years, this Cincinnati station has been certified most accurate by WeatherRate:


Certified Most Accurate 5 years in a Row from christina rule on Vimeo.

KTRK Focus Group

A news promo featuring a real focus group's thoughts on their 10pm newscast:

WKYC: See the Possible 2016

IDs:



Brand IDs:




Talent IDs:

WBZ: Politics

Interesting spot from WBZ in Boston:

CBS11 at 10pm

From Dallas:

KGW Great Food Drive

Nice, striking visuals for these spots out of Portland:

KGW Great Food Drive - Stephanie from KGW Creative on Vimeo.

KGW Great Food Drive - Tillamook 60 from KGW Creative on Vimeo.

Favorite Music Provider

Megatrax... Videohelper... Killer Tracks...  there are some really good ones out there.

What's your favorite music library?

Share your thoughts in the comment section.

We're Not Trucking Around

UPDATE:  I believe this spot has been changed out to say "toying around" -- unless I'm crazy!  (which on the last day of the book - is quite possible!)

One of the most surprising lines in a promo I've heard in a long while!

Here is a weather truck spot from Chicago:


Storm Chaser 5 from Tony Lytle on Vimeo.

Life After TV?

I'm often asked by people who have been in this profession for years - "What's next outside of TV?"

So many in promo wonder what they might do if they find themselves without a job -- or that day when they think "I can't stand another sweeps!  It's time to give this up."

So I'm asking -- where do Creative Services Directors go once they've left TV?

Ad agencies?  Marketing for a non-TV company?

What skills do we gain at a station that are transferable?

Let's start a discussion here, anonymously, that might help those looking for their next step.

Give your thoughts, experiences and knowledge in the comments section. 

Stay anonymous if you'd like - just share your thoughts.  It might just help someone move on to a happy, healthy life outside of broadcasting.

And hey - that opens up positions for those who still love Nielsen ratings each morning!

KHOU: I Made the Switch

From Houston:

Women Can...

From WBTV, an interesting sweeps spot:

WLWT Image

Cincinatti's WLWT shared this spot:


WLWT News Image 2016 from NISHAN GILMET on Vimeo.

KTVT: The Ones for Texas

The folks at Dallas station CBS11 are "The Ones for Texas":

This is KING5

KING in Seattle is getting a new building with a window on the world-type studio setup.

KFMB Image

Two spots I wanted to share with you.  The first is an "8's with you" image spot that showcases how the CBS station in San Diego is part of the fabric of the community:




The second is a spot that ran in the Super Bowl.  A simple message of thanks:



Share your thoughts on both spots in the comments section.

Anthem 2016

WBNS in Columbus, Ohio launched these two spots during Super Bowl 50:


10TV: Anthem 2016 from J.R. VanWassenhove on Vimeo.


10TV: Leader from J.R. VanWassenhove on Vimeo.

WHIO: Past & Future

This spot debuted in the Super Bowl and highlighted the legacy of the station and how it drives their coverage today and into the future.


NC7 2016 IMAGE from PileofPixels on Vimeo.

KHOU Stands for Houston

KHOU in Houston used the Super Bowl to launch this latest image spot:



Also, timed with the release of the spot, this article in a local publication.  It tells a bit of the backstory on the spot written by a local poet:

http://www.houstoniamag.com/articles/2016/2/5/khou-stands-for-houston-super-bowl-sunday-ad

10News: Empower

From WTSP in Tampa, this new image spot debuted during the Super Bowl:

WRAL Peacock Teasers

WRAL in Raleigh has a unique situation.  As a current CBS station, they're running the Super Bowl today.

Soon - they will switch affiliations and become an NBC station. 

Here are some teaser spots they produced using a trained peacock(the only one in the country!):

JOB ALERT

Promotion & Digital Brand Manager

KFSN, the Disney/ABC Owned TV station in Fresno, CA, is looking for a Promotion and Digital Brand Manager to join the Creative Services team.  The applicant will need to have a strong understanding of local news branding for on-air, web, social media and a passion for making great eye catching promos. This position requires someone with an aptitude for new technology, who is organized and comfortable with a heavy workload in a fast paced environment.  Core responsibilities include, but are not limited to: Creating content for and managing KFSN’s social media accounts along with digital department, spearheading on-air marketing campaigns that drive tune-in and engagement, creating topical news promotion during sweep periods for on-air and digital platforms, participate at KFSN branded events in the community.  Experience with Adobe programs such as Premiere Pro, Photoshop and After Effects required as well as the ability to write, shoot and edit. Experience with Cinema 4D or other 3D graphic applications a plus. Applicant will be expected to work special events that could occur during evenings and on weekends.  Equal Opportunity Employer – Female/Minority/Veteran/Disability/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity.

https://xjobs.brassring.com/TGnewUI/Search/home/HomeWithPreLoad?PageType=JobDetails&noback=0&partnerid=25348&siteid=5039&jobid=345542

Investigative Journalism

From Jacksonville, FL:

Investigative Journalism from TITO BURGA on Vimeo.

Our last post struck a cord.  Here's another powerful PSA on drinking & driving - from KION in Salinas/Montery, CA.

Wait to Text

A powerful story drives this PSA from Dayton's WDTN:


WAIT2TXT 2016_60 from Harry Boeddeker on Vimeo.

JOB ALERT

ABC/Disney-owned ABC11 Eyewitness News (WTVD) in beautiful Raleigh-Durham, North Carolina has an exciting opportunity for a CREATIVE MARKETING PRODUCER who can make content that attracts audiences on any screen. This is a rare chance to join a great team at a thriving station and company, and in one of the “best places to live in America”. If you’re currently a creative producer that knows digital marketing OR you’re a digital brand specialist who can produce content, we have a position for you. We are looking for someone who can write, shoot, produce, and edit promos as well as digital ads, social videos, and content marketing that keeps audiences engaged in our local news products. Would you like to create social buzz with your creative work AND are you passionate about connecting people with local stories and important local news? If so, please apply.

The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of local news branding, journalism, and digital marketing trends. We’re looking for an energetic team player, who is also self-motivated and can work independently to lead projects with a bias towards action. Candidates must be willing to work an evening schedule to engage people when they’re actively seeking content, including a flexible schedule around extended coverage and weekend events as needed. Preferred candidate must be familiar with the workings of a local news station and possess the following skills – professional video production and videography, Adobe Creative Cloud design and editing, digital platform marketing, and executing quick creative on tight deadlines. 

Core Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Developing strategies to engage and attract audiences at daily touch points for local news content.
• Implementing on-air and multi-platform topical promotion to engage local news audiences.
• Writing, producing, shooting and editing innovative on-air image spots from concept to completion.
• Working with the design team to create motion graphics and digital ads for local campaigns.
• Filling in on department duties, including promo scheduling, production coordination, and event marketing.

Interested candidates should apply online with a resume and creative work at www.disneycareers.com and search for the job title Creative Marketing Producer Req ID# 339391BR, create a candidate profile and UPLOAD YOUR RESUME FILE.

(No phone calls please)

Equal Opportunity Employer – Female/Minority/Veteran/Disability/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity

11News This Morning

From KHOU in beautiful Houston, TX:

Powerball

Since I didn't win, I'm still blogging.


Watch this group of New Jersey restaurant employees who THOUGHT they had won Powerball.

Stick around for the end for the GREAT unexpected promotional message tagged on to the end.

If it doesn't load on your computer - try this webpage instead: 

http://abc7.com/news/nj-restaurant-workers-celebrate-after-mistakenly-thinking-they-won-powerball/1157950/


   

JOB ALERT: WSYR

Job Description

WSYR NewsChannel 9, the local news leader for Central New York, is searching for a highly motivated Promotion Manager with a special news focus, and overall station brand development. Candidate will work closely with the News Director in developing brand and marketing strategies to take NewsChannel 9 to the next level. The ability to produce high-quality, modern promotion from start to finish is required. Candidate will have exceptional copy writing, photography, video, design and conceptual skills with a willingness and ability to teach others. Candidate must also have Adobe CC editing experience and excellent skills with After Effects. Candidate must also have professional interpersonal and communication skills, be detail-minded with the ability to handle tight deadlines, work well under pressure and prioritize multiple projects. 3-5 years prior television experience is required. Must send reel or link of work to be considered.

Responsibilities:

·        Help develop marketing strategies for NewsChannel 9, LocalSYR.com, MeTV Syracuse and Bounce Syracuse, including mobile apps

·        Produce NewsChannel 9 station, news and weather image promotion from concept to completion

·        Help oversee day-to-day operations, including news topicals, episodic show promotion, community events and social marketing

·        Produce daily promotion/news topicals as needed 

·        Manage projects and priorities within deadlines

·        Plan radio co-op as well as work with local partners for a cost effective approach to marketing the station

Required Skills

Requirements:

·        Exceptional copy writing, design and conceptual skills with a willingness and ability to teach others 

·        Excellent interpersonal and communication skills

·        Detail-minded with the ability to handle tight deadlines 

·        Work well under pressure and prioritize multiple projects

·        Must understand the nuances, advantages and disadvantages unique to each media platform

Education:

Bachelor college degree required

Required Experience

·        3-5 years prior television experience is required for this management level position

·        Adobe CC editing experience and excellent skills with After Effects

I Work 4 You

From WSMV in Nashville, three spots promoting their style of news coverage:


I Work 4 You "Weather Promo" from Brian Hallett on Vimeo.

I Work 4 You "City Promo" from Brian Hallett on Vimeo.

I Work 4 You "School Promo" from Brian Hallett on Vimeo.

KARE11 Gets a New Set

New Studio_Launch Tease_JAN 15 from KARE 11 Creative on Vimeo.

The App Wars

Fun way to promote WUSA's app:

APP WARS -- WUSA9 App 15 from Ray Houghton on Vimeo.