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Writing Guidelines: Street Interviews
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Writing Guidelines: Street Interviews

Speak Up
Aug 18, 2021
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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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