So, you've got some amazing video footage and you're thinking about sharing it with ABC News? Awesome! Getting your video on a major news network can be a fantastic way to bring attention to important events, share compelling stories, or even just show off something cool you've captured. But where do you even start? Don't worry, guys, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know to successfully submit your video to ABC News. We'll cover the types of videos they're looking for, the technical requirements, and the steps you need to take to increase your chances of getting your video seen by millions. ABC News, like any major news organization, has specific procedures and guidelines for accepting user-generated content. Understanding these guidelines is crucial for ensuring your submission is taken seriously and considered for broadcast. From breaking news events to heartwarming human-interest stories, ABC News covers a wide range of topics, and they often rely on contributions from viewers like you to supplement their reporting. The rise of citizen journalism has made it easier than ever for ordinary people to capture newsworthy events and share them with the world. ABC News recognizes this and actively encourages viewers to submit their videos for consideration. The process might seem a little daunting at first, but trust me, it's totally doable. With a little preparation and attention to detail, you can give your video the best possible chance of making it onto the airwaves. So, grab your video files, get comfortable, and let's dive in!

What Kind of Videos Does ABC News Want?

Alright, before you even think about hitting that submit button, let's talk about what kind of videos ABC News is actually looking for. They're not going to air your cat playing the piano (unless it's really spectacular), so it's important to understand their needs and priorities. Generally, ABC News is interested in videos that are timely, newsworthy, and relevant to their audience. Think breaking news, natural disasters, political events, and major incidents. If you've captured something that's happening right now and is of significant public interest, that's definitely something they'd want to see. But it's not just about hard news. ABC News also features human-interest stories, heartwarming moments, and videos that showcase incredible feats or unique talents. If you've got a video that will make people laugh, cry, or say "wow," that could also be a great fit. The key is to think about what will resonate with a broad audience and what aligns with ABC News' overall programming. Consider also the exclusivity of your footage. Did a hundred other people capture the same event from the exact same angle? Or do you have a unique perspective or access that sets your video apart? Exclusive footage is always more valuable to news organizations. Before submitting, take a look at ABC News' website or watch their broadcasts to get a better sense of the types of videos they typically feature. This will give you a better idea of whether your video is a good fit and will help you tailor your submission accordingly. Also, it's important to make sure that your video is ethically sound. Don't submit videos that are defamatory, libelous, or that violate anyone's privacy. ABC News has a responsibility to ensure the accuracy and fairness of its reporting, and they won't air anything that could get them into legal trouble. In short, ABC News is looking for videos that are newsworthy, relevant, engaging, and ethically sound. Keep these factors in mind when deciding whether to submit your footage, and you'll be well on your way to getting your video seen by millions.

Technical Requirements for Submitting Videos

Okay, so you've got a video that you think ABC News will love. Great! Now, let's talk about the nitty-gritty details: the technical requirements. News organizations have specific standards for video quality, format, and length, and if your video doesn't meet these standards, it's unlikely to be considered. First and foremost, quality is key. Your video should be as clear and stable as possible. Use a tripod or other stabilizing device to avoid shaky footage. Make sure the audio is clear and understandable, and avoid excessive background noise. If possible, shoot in high definition (HD) to ensure the best possible image quality. ABC News typically prefers videos in formats like MP4, MOV, or AVI. These are widely compatible formats that can be easily edited and broadcast. Avoid obscure or proprietary formats that may require special software to open or convert. As for length, keep your video concise and to the point. News segments are typically short, so aim for a video that's no more than a few minutes long. Focus on the most important aspects of the story and cut out any unnecessary footage. When submitting your video, be sure to include all the relevant information, such as the date, time, and location of the event. Provide a brief description of what's happening in the video, and include any relevant background information. This will help the editors at ABC News understand the context of your video and assess its newsworthiness. Also, be sure to include your contact information so that ABC News can reach you if they have any questions or need additional information. This is crucial because they may need to verify the authenticity of your video or obtain your permission to use it. Check ABC News' website for their specific guidelines on video submissions. They may have additional requirements or recommendations that you should follow. By paying attention to these technical details, you can increase the chances of your video being accepted and broadcast by ABC News.

Steps to Submit Your Video to ABC News

Alright, you've got your amazing video, you've made sure it meets all the technical requirements, and now you're ready to submit it to ABC News. So, how do you actually do it? While specific submission methods may vary slightly over time, here's a general overview of the steps you'll need to take: The first thing you'll want to do is visit the ABC News website and look for their "Submit a Video" or "Contact Us" page. This page will typically provide instructions on how to submit your video and may include a submission form that you can fill out. Look for a specific email address or online portal dedicated to video submissions. This is usually the most direct way to get your video in front of the right people. When you submit your video, be sure to include a compelling subject line that grabs the attention of the editors. For example, instead of just saying "Video Submission," try something like "Exclusive Video of [Event] in [Location]." In the body of your email or submission form, provide a brief but detailed description of your video. Explain what's happening, where it's happening, and why it's newsworthy. Be sure to highlight any unique aspects of your video or any exclusive access you may have had. As mentioned earlier, be sure to include all the relevant information, such as the date, time, and location of the event. This will help the editors understand the context of your video and assess its newsworthiness. Don't forget to include your contact information, including your name, email address, and phone number. This is essential so that ABC News can reach you if they have any questions or need additional information. Before you hit that submit button, double-check everything to make sure you've followed all the instructions and provided all the necessary information. A well-prepared and professional submission will make a positive impression and increase your chances of getting your video noticed. After you've submitted your video, be patient. ABC News receives a large number of submissions every day, so it may take some time for them to review your footage. Don't be discouraged if you don't hear back right away. And, you know, maybe sending a follow-up email after a week is fine, but, like, don't spam them.

Tips to Increase Your Chances of Getting Your Video Accepted

Okay, so you've followed all the steps and submitted your video to ABC News. Now what? While there's no guarantee that your video will be accepted, there are a few things you can do to increase your chances. First, make sure your video is timely. News organizations are always looking for the latest information, so the sooner you submit your video after an event occurs, the better. If you wait too long, the story may no longer be relevant. Promote your video on social media. Share it on platforms like Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube, and use relevant hashtags to reach a wider audience. If your video starts to gain traction online, it may attract the attention of ABC News. Try to establish a relationship with journalists or producers at ABC News. Follow them on social media, comment on their stories, and attend industry events. Building connections can help you get your video in front of the right people. Offer ABC News exclusive rights to your video. If you're willing to give them exclusive access, they may be more likely to consider your submission. However, be sure to weigh the pros and cons of exclusivity before making this decision. Be persistent but polite. Don't be afraid to follow up on your submission, but avoid being pushy or demanding. A friendly and professional attitude will go a long way. If your video is rejected, don't take it personally. News organizations have limited airtime and resources, and they can't accept every submission they receive. Use the experience as a learning opportunity and continue to hone your skills as a videographer. Be sure to check other news outlets too. Your video might just be a better fit somewhere else. By following these tips, you can increase your chances of getting your video accepted by ABC News and sharing your story with the world.

Conclusion

Submitting a video to ABC News can be a rewarding experience. Not only could you share your footage with a massive audience, but you could also contribute to the newsgathering process and help inform the public. Just remember to follow these steps, and with a little luck, you might just see your video on ABC News! Good luck, guys!