Call for Digital Reporters at Wordfest 2014
Call for Digital Reporters at Wordfest 2014
Wordfest is seeking Digital Reporters to become the eyes, ears and voice of of the Festival, on-the-ground in Calgary for the 19th annual Wordfest from October 14 to 19.
We are looking for applicants of all sorts who have a unique approach to digital reporting. If this sounds like you, please read the position descriptions below and complete the short online application form.
Please contact Everett Wilson, Wordfest Communications Coordinator, for more information about the Digital Reporting project during Wordfest 2014. Deadline for applications is September 19, 2014. Late submissions will be considered on a case by case basis.
Digital Reporters volunteer their time, skills and storytelling ability, and ideally have experience or a keen interest in working in one or more of the following capacities:
Bloggers will capture their experience attending the Festival. Successful candidates receive a complimentary ticket to each of their assigned events and are asked to research and write a short 500-750 word account from an audience perspective — e.g. summarizing topics discussed and reflecting on any insights gleaned about the artists and books presented, and what they found most exciting or interesting. Strong writing skills and a passion for arts and culture are essential. Applicants are encouraged to submit writing samples or a link to their blog.
Social media contributors provide a live on-the-ground report of the Festival as it happens. Successful candidates receive a complimentary ticket to each of their assigned events and use their personal social media accounts to capture Festival activities from an audience perspective. They will use their own mobile devices to compose live Tweets, take photos, capture video off their smartphone when possible and participate in discussions on relevant hashtags such as #wordfest2014. Some familiarity with social media is an asset but all levels of experience are encouraged to sign up, and general training on best-practices will be available during orientation. Access to a smartphone and mobile data plan is a requirement.
Photographers use their own equipment to photograph Wordfest activities as official photographers during the Festival. Successful candidates receive an all-access pass during their assigned events and are able to approach the stage discretely, when needed, to capture the live action of a performance. These positions are restricted to photographers with professional training or experience, and a small honorarium may be provided depending on available funding. Photography students, currently in school or recent graduates, are also encouraged to apply and a portfolio of work may be requested.
Videographers assist Wordfest with video capture of selected events while on-site during the Festival. These positions are restricted to videographers with professional training or experience, and a a small honorarium may be provided depending on available funding. Video production students, currently in school or recent graduates, are encouraged to apply and a portfolio of work may be requested.