lindamorellishepherd

Hi all,
I was part of a "media blitz" at Shepherd's College on February 26th, in preparation for the College's Fiction Writers Conference being held on June 4-6, 2004. I was joined by Barbara Cummings (Director of Shepherd College's Writers Conference) and Ruth Glick (aka Rebecca York). We had a great time discussing writing, why we do it, what we write, etc. The crew had prepared questions for us, like "How do you define your inner voice?" Ever try to answer that in a minute or less? :-)

In any event, Ruth Glick, Barbara and I discussed that topic while the media personnel set up the lights, camera, etc. By the time the taping began, we were ready and on a roll. Ruth discussed how she started out writing mysteries, then romantic suspense, and is now writing a paranormal romantic suspense series featuring a werewolf as the main protagonist. (You should see the beautiful covers for these books!) I mentioned how much I have always loved history, especially the American Revolutionary War period, which led to my writing "Fiery Surrender." I then admitted I also love mysteries, which is why I wrote "Shadow of Doubt." Barbara Cummings, who is a romance author, ex-magazine publisher and current writing instructor at Shepherd College, discussed the varied facets of writing, and then talked about the upcoming Fiction Writers Conference, which offers great topics for anyone who wants to make a career in writing fiction. (Romance authors Nora Roberts and Mary Jo Putney are the featured authors at the June conference.)

By the time the taping crew finally said, "Cut," they had a good 20 minutes of solid discussion. What pleased me the most is that we covered every question they planned to ask us, but never actually got around to asking. Apparently, they were having too much fun just listening to us talk.

I had lots of fun, and thought I'd share a few suggestions regarding media events with you:

1) If, for some reason, the interviewer doesn't have a copy of your Press Kit ahead of time (always recommended), bring a copy with you. Since I'm speaking on two panels during the conference and will present a discussion entitled, "Prewriting, Writing and Rewriting," the College already had a copy of my Press Kit.

2) Always arrive at least fifteen minutes early. This will not only leave the impression that you're professional, it will also allow you to freshen up a bit before the taping begins.

3) The studios use strong lights and the room will be bright, so don't wear white and/or bright red. Light pastels work best. (Ruth and I each wore black, which works great.)

4) Don't wear anything too warm. The lights can get hot after a while and sweaty foreheads don't leave the best impression.

5) Because the lights are so strong, use a bit more make-up than usual, and touch up shiny facial spots with powder. (Larger studios have personnel who will do this for you, but I guarantee the "cake make-up" they use will feel heavy.)

6) Avoid large pieces of jewelry, such as clanking bracelets or large, dangling earrings, which can make noise and distract the viewer from what you have to say. Also, use a neutral-colored nail polish - helpful if they do a close up of your hands while you're holding your book.

7) Minimize your hand and facial gestures. TV cameras have a way of exaggerating nervous movements. (A long time ago, when I was on the Dating Game on TV, I rolled my eyes heavenward. Ive regretted doing that ever since.)

8) Remember to relax. They aren't there to crucify you. Take several deep breaths before you begin, releasing them slowly, and repeat as needed throughout the interview. (The best time is when the interviewer is asking you a question and the camera is focused on him or her).

9) Keep your attention directed toward the interviewer and/or other speakers and not the camera. This is proper etiquette, but it also makes you appear more professional.

10) Thank the interviewer and the media crew. Again, this is simply proper etiquette.

11) Bring a blank VHS tape and pre-addressed envelope with you. I asked if I could get a copy of the taping and received a quick "yes" when they noticed the blank tape and envelope I pulled out of my carrying case.

I understand that the recording we did will be presented on TV (public broadcast systems) all over the Mid-Atlantic region. While I might miss the TV broadcast, I certainly look forward to receiving the taped interview.

Hugs to all,
Linda
www.lindamorelli.us