The Street Interview — an interview with someone on the streets — is one of the top types of pieces that we are looking for on Speak Up.
Here are the basics of how to approach it.
Structure (2 Parts)
Part 1 - Written Introduction
150-250 words that bring the reader into the scene and setting and give some background. Help them orient and see (visually!) what the reporter is seeing as well.
Use the sense to capture the scene — describe the street, the subject, their belongings. Capture the smell in the air, the taste in your mouth.
Describe the day, the weather
Share something positive (that is observable) about the person
Give context about the homeless situation in that region or city
Can write in first-person or third-person, whichever best fits.
Part 2 - Straight Q & A
Write out word-for-word the interview with the subject
Example —
You: What’s your story?
Them: Well, it all started when I got divorced…
You: What are you thankful for today?
Them: Fortunately I have a lot of friends who…
Note: to get this accurately, you’ll need to record it. (Or video.)
This part — the “straight Q & A” — is really important to include.
Photos
Include Five Photos
2 portrait photos of the subject
1 wide shot giving broader street context (can be from 20-50+ feet away)
2 close ups of different things... their hands, posessions, a book, a flower in the sidewalk, etc.
Payment
$30
Add $5 for the audio file or video file
Notes
You must have permission from the subject to publish the story and accompanying media.
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