The images of the ongoing devastation of southern California are difficult to watch. The loss of life and property is truly horrifying and heartbreaking.
The first responders and everyone out there working to stem the siege and rescue the trapped or injured are undoubtedly amazing and heroic.
But you know who else deserves credit for their hard work? Members of the media. They are out there in perilous conditions doing their best to keep the public informed. Please note that I am NOT AT ALL suggesting that the media deserves any hero worship — I’m suggesting that despite the challenges of the environment, they are still out there doing their jobs.
Among those reporting live out in the chaotic field was David Muir of ABC News. Despite the smoke, wind and debris flying around him, a tiny detail of his attire managed to capture attention — a clothespin on the back of his rain jacket.
Many who noticed it called him vain and narcissistic, assuming that the clothespin’s purpose was to make the jacket fit better so he could look good on camera.
As someone who has reported on camera out in the field, wind, rain and other difficult weather conditions can interfere with the microphone. Those same weather conditions can cause loose clothing to flap back and forth, creating additional sound interference. Also, a jacket that is ill-fitting can be distracting. When trying to report live, the focus is on reporting and it is very, very difficult and daunting. There are no teleprompters. It’s just you and whatever sentences form in your brain and leave your mouth at that moment. Distractions like wind causing rippling of clothing can completely ruin the flow of information.
I understand that opinions of the media are not favorable and I understand why (though I disagree), but this criticism is unfair.
What are your thoughts?
Of note, it is 4:48 a.m. and about to be hour 11 of a 13-hour shift. Please forgive any typos and the lack of verbal finesse.
Kim C, The NP 