Lesson 10: Final.

There is an old saying, “it is about the journey rather than the destination.” It entails that the voyage is what we gain the most from, either as new knowledge or self-discovery.

Looking back at the past 4 weeks, the tutorial had covered all disciplines of professional communication. Due to my previous intentions to pursue media as my main discipline, the most memorable moments for me was lesson 2 photojournalism.

Learning the basics of camera operations, including shutter speed and depth of view, our class headed outside to take some photos. It allowed us to demonstrate the connection between design elements and principles theory, like line, shape, colour, contrast and balance, through trial and error. I personally find “hands-on work” more engaging, it was a shame that we did not do any more similar activities later on.

“The story does not start the moment you land in the country,” said Damir Sagolj, a renowned Thailand based photojournalist, “you will have to know a lot [more].”

In his YouTube video titled, 7 Photojournalism Tips by Reuters Photographer Damir Sagolj, he suggests that professional photographers, along with being able to operate their own equipment, must also complete a series of background logistics to ensure a safe journey in a foreign country. Before departing, it is standard practice to do research about the story you are trying to cover. To understand the context and possible perspectives to cover.

Linking this back to what we have learnt in our course, understanding stakeholders and audience is essential to good storytelling and creative solutions. Damir Sagolj illustrates, as communication professionals, adequate preparation ensures that our practice is accurate, factual, and ensures our safety in foreign countries.

In addition, lesson 9 left an impression on me. The main focus was presenting and pitching; which is a skill that I hope to develop further both as a professional practise, as well as for personal reasons. After failing 2 pitches to publishers for a book, I am determined to correct my mistakes and master the art of pitching.

Covered in a TEDx YouTube video titled presented by Will Stephen, How to sound smart in your TEDx Talk | Will Stephen | TEDxNewYork, the lecture was a satirical guide to public speaking and pitching. The presenter Will Stephen literally had nothing to showcase other than his skilful presentation techniques. Including uses in body language, changes in voice, tone, and speed. He demonstrated that by displaying “numbers” and adjusting his voice to “sound smart”, he is able to make “nothing” sound important and engaging.

What it suggests to us, practitioners of professional communication, it that “an idea does not always sell itself”. It is the presentation of an idea, story or concept that people identify themselves with. Of course, research and evidence are always necessary for factual communication. However, no one likes to listen to facts if it does not sound important.

The key theory I took away from this, not only for my future career, but also for my personal pitching practise; is the ability to generate “emotional weight” through voice.

"Knowledge is an endless hallway. The further you walk, the more you realise you don't know."

---

How to sound smart in your TEDx Talk | Will Stephen | TEDxNewYork 2015, YouTube, TEDx Talks, viewed 11 December 2019, <https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8S0FDjFBj8o>

7 Photojournalism Tips by Reuters Photographer Damir Sagolj 2013, YouTube, Thomson Reuters Foundation, viewed 11 December 2019, <https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zsO9IObsaRA>