Hidden Cameras Make a Comeback

[bob cole]

from Romenesko, a journalism site:

http://spj.org/blog/blogs/newsgems/archive/2008/05/19/20571.aspx

 

[jan normandale]

Interersting site. I'm always 'conflicted' by this type of 'gotcha journalism' sometimes the journalists are less than straight on the interpretation of the 'news' they uncover. It's a bit like a police sting. Questionable interpretations abound but without the hidden camera would they admit this? I think that's where my issue lies. These two facts taint the results of what might be a 'needed airing of facts'

Based on the success of Sacha Baron Cohen's "Ali G" and Steve Colbert's interviews I think people will actually disclose all sorts of things to a camera and interviewer. If those two can get this on tape I think the journalists should be able to do so. Then their story would be a much more credible exposé

 

[40oz]

^ I agree. Quite often, hidden camera so-called "exposes" are nothing more than information we all knew anyway, gathered and presented in a manner to sensationalize an otherwise boring story. Very, very, very rarely is anything new brought to light, and even then, it would have been easy via actual honest journalism (research and actually talking to people) to come to the same facts.

IMHO, when I see the term "hidden camera" in a news line, I can safely assume the reporter was more interested in glorifying their own job than revealing any great truth.

FWIW, I take issue with the claim that hidden cameras have ever been out of vogue. It's been a favorite tool of news departments anytime they need hype for ratings.