Here are the top 20 most viewed video stories on
KobreGuide during the month of June 2009:
Pit Bulls: Companions or Killers? Conjoined Twins Courtney Hawkins Comes Home Bolivia's Women Wrestlers Waiting Topless Acid Attacks Growing Up Online Hungry: Living with Prader-Willi Syndrome Second Chance: The Jazz Singer Burned in the War The Sand Dancer The Girl in the Window A Hendrix Experience in Hollywood Journey Along the Border Dangerous Encounters with Brady Barr Turtle Man Being Aron Ralston Gertrude Baines, 114, Votes Stalemate in Korangal Valley Ana's Story We're hard pressed to find a common denominator here -- the subjects and themes are wonderfully diverse. Some are
serious, some are
lighthearted. Many are
bleak, others are
hopeful. Just like TV execs trying to predict a new series' potential for ratings success, it would be foolish to pursue non-fiction video stories on the basis of what you think will be popular.
One element we search for in selecting stories worthy of
KobreGuide is passion. As we scan the list above, we can't help but notice that, whether a story was produced by a major media institution such as the
New York Times, or by an
independent shooter, they all seem to exude a distinctive spirit, a tone that says, "Hey, look at this!"
The lesson here for videojournalists? Follow your gut. First make sure the story appeals to YOU. Then you'll naturally imbue a story with your verve, and your enthusiasm will become infectious.
Posts
