Wednesday, December 7, 2016

Holiday Snow

KTVT in Dallas made some holiday magic with this spot:




Tuesday, December 6, 2016

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!


Tuesday, November 29, 2016

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.


Monday, November 28, 2016

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.


Monday, November 21, 2016

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:






Saturday, November 12, 2016

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:




Thursday, November 10, 2016

WBZ: Everything

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








Wednesday, November 9, 2016

Thursday, November 3, 2016

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


Monday, October 31, 2016

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:




Friday, October 28, 2016

Wednesday, October 26, 2016

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.

Thursday, October 20, 2016

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.


Monday, October 10, 2016

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




Wednesday, October 5, 2016

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

Monday, October 3, 2016

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.

Thursday, September 22, 2016

#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.


Tuesday, September 20, 2016

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:

Friday, September 9, 2016

Tuesday, September 6, 2016

Friday, September 2, 2016

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.

Thursday, August 18, 2016

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.

Thursday, August 11, 2016

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.

Monday, July 25, 2016

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.



Friday, July 8, 2016

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.

Thursday, July 7, 2016

Mobile 11

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




Wednesday, June 29, 2016

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


Monday, June 13, 2016

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.





Thursday, June 9, 2016

KHOU Meteorologist Promo

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


Monday, June 6, 2016

WBTV: Like Us on Facebook

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


Wednesday, May 25, 2016

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

Tuesday, May 24, 2016

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.

Monday, May 23, 2016

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. 


Wednesday, May 4, 2016

DUI Test

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


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


Monday, May 2, 2016

WKYC: See the Possible Rap

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


Friday, April 29, 2016

Tuesday, April 26, 2016

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?


Monday, April 25, 2016

We Are Austin

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




Tuesday, April 19, 2016

Dave's Final Putt

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




Thursday, March 31, 2016

Tuesday, March 22, 2016

Monday, March 21, 2016

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.


Monday, March 14, 2016

KTRK Focus Group

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




Thursday, March 3, 2016

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.

Tuesday, March 1, 2016

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.


Wednesday, February 24, 2016

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!

Wednesday, February 17, 2016

Thursday, February 11, 2016

Wednesday, February 10, 2016

KTVT: The Ones for Texas

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


Tuesday, February 9, 2016

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.


Monday, February 8, 2016

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


Sunday, February 7, 2016

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!):


Wednesday, February 3, 2016

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.

Monday, February 1, 2016

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

Wednesday, January 27, 2016

Wednesday, January 20, 2016

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

Friday, January 15, 2016

Thursday, January 14, 2016

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/


   

Tuesday, January 12, 2016

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

Monday, January 11, 2016