What does a mobile journalist need?

I’ve compiled 4 lists of things I think a mobile journalist needs: hardware, software, systems, and mindset.

Using the information I have learned from class I will also add to this list.

Mobile journalism – hardware

• Smartphone with camera, video, audio, unlimited data plan
• Digital camcorder, iFlip, video recording device
• Portable mic
• Tripod, batteries, and chargers
• Portable chargers

Mobile journalism – software

• Apps for your smart phone
• Twitter, Facebook, Foursquare
• Google Maps
• Microsoft Word
• Adobe Reader

Mobile journalism- the mindset

• Tweet on the go
• Find stories that are not online
• Follow people in the community you are covering
• Think humor, art, quirky, just as much as regular news

Being a mobile journalist means you will be out and around the people. You may also need to have a GPS or an app on the phone that is GPS so you can get from point to point.

A mobile journalist needs the following:

1. Common sense
2. Having the intelligence to not pack *everything*. ONLY take what you need.
3. Understanding that it’s the CONTENT not the Quality. “It’s all well and good kicking around the outskirts of a desolate farmland or in another country and recording everything you see, but you will not get an internet connection anywhere for toffee… and if you do, it’ll be S-L-O-W. Any attempt at uploading/filing any kind of HD content will be futile.