Submit Video To Metro TV: A Complete Guide

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Submit Video to Metro TV: A Complete Guide

So, you've got a video you think Metro TV viewers would love? Awesome! Maybe it's breaking news you captured, a heartwarming community story, or some other footage that deserves a wider audience. Getting your video on Metro TV can be a great way to share your perspective and inform the public. But how do you actually do it? Don't worry, guys, this guide breaks down the process step by step.

Understanding Metro TV's Needs

Before you even think about sending your video, it's crucial to understand what Metro TV is looking for. They're a news channel, first and foremost, so they prioritize content that is:

  • Newsworthy: Is your video about a current event, a developing story, or something that impacts the public? The more relevant it is to current affairs, the better.
  • High Quality: This doesn't necessarily mean it has to be shot with professional equipment, but it does mean it should be stable, in focus, and with decent audio. Nobody wants to watch a shaky, blurry video they can't hear!
  • Exclusive (Ideally): If your video is already all over social media, Metro TV might be less interested. If you're offering them something unique they can't get anywhere else, that gives you a big advantage.
  • Ethical and Legal: Your video must not contain any defamatory, libelous, or otherwise illegal content. You also need to have the rights to the footage – you can't submit something you filmed without permission.

Consider Metro TV's target audience. What kind of stories do they usually cover? What are their values? Aligning your video with their programming will significantly increase your chances of getting it aired. Think about the story your video tells. Is it compelling? Does it have a clear narrative? Does it evoke emotion? A good story is key to capturing the attention of the news editors.

Step-by-Step Guide to Submitting Your Video

Okay, so you've assessed your video and you think it's a good fit for Metro TV. Here's how to submit it:

  1. Visit the Metro TV Website: Head over to Metro TV's official website. Look for a "Contact Us" or "Citizen Journalism" section. Many news outlets have specific portals for user-generated content.
  2. Find the Submission Guidelines: Somewhere on the website (usually in the "Contact Us" or "Citizen Journalism" section), you should find guidelines for submitting videos. These guidelines will outline the file formats they accept, the maximum file size, and any other specific requirements. Read these carefully! Ignoring them is a sure way to get your video rejected.
  3. Prepare Your Video: Make sure your video meets the technical specifications outlined in the guidelines. This might involve converting it to a specific file format (like MP4 or MOV) and compressing it to reduce the file size. Use video editing software (even a free one) to trim the video to the most important parts and add any necessary captions or annotations.
  4. Write a Compelling Description: This is your chance to sell your video! Write a clear, concise, and engaging description that explains what the video is about, where and when it was filmed, and why it's important. Include any relevant background information and contact details.
  5. Submit Your Video: Follow the instructions on the website to upload your video and submit your description. This might involve filling out a form or sending an email. Be patient. News organizations receive a lot of submissions, so it might take them a while to review your video. Don't spam them with follow-up emails. If they're interested, they'll contact you.

Alternative Submission Methods

While the website is the most common way to submit videos, there might be other options available:

  • Social Media: Some news organizations actively monitor social media for user-generated content. You can try posting your video on Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram and tagging Metro TV's official account. However, this is less reliable than submitting it through their official channels.
  • Email: If you can't find a specific submission form on the website, you can try sending your video and description to Metro TV's general email address. However, be aware that your email might get lost in the shuffle. Make sure your subject line is clear and attention-grabbing (e.g., "Urgent: Video of [Event] in [Location]").
  • Direct Contact: If you happen to know someone who works at Metro TV, you can try contacting them directly. However, don't be pushy or demanding. They're more likely to help you if you're polite and respectful.

Tips for Increasing Your Chances of Success

Getting your video on Metro TV isn't easy, but here are some tips to improve your odds:

  • Be Fast: News is all about timing. If you have a video of a breaking news event, submit it as soon as possible. The longer you wait, the less likely it is to be relevant.
  • Be Clear and Concise: News editors are busy people. They don't have time to watch long, rambling videos. Get straight to the point and focus on the most important information.
  • Be Objective: Present the facts in a neutral and unbiased way. Avoid expressing personal opinions or making inflammatory statements.
  • Be Professional: Even if you're not a professional videographer, try to present yourself as professionally as possible. Use proper grammar and spelling in your description, and be polite and respectful in your communications.
  • Follow Up (But Don't Pester): If you haven't heard back from Metro TV after a reasonable amount of time (e.g., a week or two), you can send a polite follow-up email. However, don't bombard them with emails or phone calls. That will only annoy them and decrease your chances of success.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Submitting a video to a news organization can be intimidating. Here are common pitfalls to sidestep:

  • Ignoring Submission Guidelines: Each channel has specific formatting, length, and content requirements. Overlooking these will likely lead to rejection.
  • Poor Video Quality: Shaky, out-of-focus videos with bad audio are hard to watch. Use stabilization tools, ensure proper lighting, and speak clearly.
  • Lack of Context: Viewers need to understand the video's background. Provide details like when, where, and why the event occurred.
  • Copyright Infringement: Avoid using copyrighted music or footage without permission. Use royalty-free resources instead.
  • Being Impatient: Newsrooms receive many submissions. Don't expect an immediate response or get discouraged by delays.

Legal Considerations

Before you submit your video, it's important to be aware of the legal implications:

  • Copyright: Make sure you own the copyright to the video or have permission to use it. Don't submit videos that contain copyrighted material without authorization.
  • Privacy: Be respectful of people's privacy. If your video features individuals, make sure you have their consent to film and share their likeness. You might need to blur their faces if they don't want to be identified.
  • Defamation: Avoid making false or defamatory statements in your video or description. You could be held liable for damages if you do.

Alternative Platforms

Okay, so maybe Metro TV isn't interested in your video. Don't despair! There are plenty of other platforms where you can share your content:

  • YouTube: YouTube is the world's largest video-sharing platform. You can upload your video to YouTube for free and reach a global audience.
  • Vimeo: Vimeo is another popular video-sharing platform, known for its high-quality content and professional community.
  • Social Media: Share your video on social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Use relevant hashtags to reach a wider audience.
  • Local News Outlets: Contact local news websites, newspapers, and TV stations. They might be interested in your video, especially if it's about a local event or issue.

Final Thoughts

Getting your video on Metro TV takes effort and a bit of luck. By understanding their needs, following the submission guidelines, and presenting your video in the best possible light, you'll increase your chances of success. And even if Metro TV doesn't bite, there are plenty of other ways to share your video with the world. So, get out there, capture some amazing footage, and let your voice be heard! Remember to always prioritize quality, relevance, and ethical considerations.

Alright guys, I hope this comprehensive guide helps you in your journey to get your video featured on Metro TV! Good luck, and remember to always strive for quality and ethical content creation.