'Are you allowed to vox pop your family on BBC1?' blog discussion

Former_MSE_Penelope

This is the discussion to link on the back of Martin's blog. Please read the blog first, as this discussion follows it.

Read Martin's "Are you allowed to vox pop your family on BBC1?" Blog.

Please click reply to discuss below.

Ickle-toots

:T I don't see why it can't be used - especially if it's informative & in good taste as well

JimmyTheWig

I agree in this case it should be allowed.
But that relies greatly on me believing you when you say it wasn't pre-arranged.

I'm sure there are reporters out there with less scruples than you, Martin. What if their uncle was looking for modelling work and wanted the TV exposure? Or simply just wanted to be on TV for 30 seconds? That then gives rise to the benefit of pre-arranging such a meeting, which would be very hard to prove either way. Might just be easier to restrict it?
[It also skewed the results (not that it was a formal survey) as he stopped to speak because he knew you.]

That said, I guess you can use family members at times. For example, didn't you once do a piece with your (now) wife on IPTW?

MSE_Martin

JimmyTheWig wrote: »

I agree in this case it should be allowed.
But that relies greatly on me believing you when you say it wasn't pre-arranged.

I'm sure there are reporters out there with less scruples than you, Martin. What if their uncle was looking for modelling work and wanted the TV exposure? Or simply just wanted to be on TV for 30 seconds? That then gives rise to the benefit of pre-arranging such a meeting, which would be very hard to prove either way. Might just be easier to restrict it?
[It also skewed the results (not that it was a formal survey) as he stopped to speak because he knew you.]

That said, I guess you can use family members at times. For example, didn't you once do a piece with your (now) wife on IPTW?

Hi Jimmy

Doing a piece on IPTW with my wife is different as that was what the story was about - this is a vox pop (voice of the people) so the connotation is different.

However my favourite bit of your reply is

looking for modelling work

Here is a picture of Uncle Tony



I think you're right... it's a goer!

Martin

Tigsteroonie

I'm sure he could model clothes for the silver-haired generation! Though he looks more the type to be advertising over-50s insurance

Nicki24

In my opinion I think it should be used. Your uncles opinion is as valid as anyone elses......you were completely honest and upfront about it.

Mark_Hewitt

As long as it is made clear on the TV broadcast who he is, then I don't see any problem.

Toe-Jam

I don't see the harm in it. Its not like you were trying to hide anything, and interviewing someone you already know is much easier than a total stranger. What are the chances of running into your Uncle at the exact same time your doing a spread for the BBC in a city the size of London ? :-)

P.S you might want to explain to people what a vox pop is, sounds like an 80's Eurovision Entry.

bribri_2

It will be a matter of perception and reputation.

We are used to a lot of "reality" TV being staged, confrontations repeated for the camera etc. Despite your upfront honesty about the circumstances, will people perceive it as legit and will it affect your reputation.

90% of me says it will be fine and a refreshing change and 10% says it may appear staged and counter productive.

robbies_gal

as long as its made clear hes your uncle i dont see what the difference is youre not selling anything hes not plugging anything so no probs with me

TaxTony

Tigsteroonie wrote: »

I'm sure he could model clothes for the silver-haired generation! Though he looks more the type to be advertising over-50s insurance

Well at least I look trustworthy. Distinguished?