Media Hype Response

In the video, there are examples of digital manipulation in photos and videos. When, if ever, is it ethical to alter a photograph or video that accompanies your news reporting?

The only time I can see it as being ethical to alter photos or videos was when the video showed advertisment being added during sporting broadcast. If there is advertisment space available by making it available to more than one advertisor. It is never ok to add people to add diversity to the photo is never ok or ethical.

The video shows examples of "hype"-filled headlines and alarmist reporting. In many cases, this is due to the fact that such reporting tends to get the attention of audiences. Should the news media adjust their news reporting strategies based on reader demand and/or interest?

Yes and no. If reporters aren't catering to the interest of the public, then the news isn't newsworthy to that audience and it varies by location. However, the news shouldn't set the agenda because then the "demand" is a reflection of the agenda reporting has set.

Several publications and media outlets accept "freebies" and "junkets" from PR firms and lobbyists. Under what circumstances, does this present a conflict of interest for the journalists?

This can always present a problem and can sway the final decision of a product review. The excuse that the smaller newspapers take the freebies because they can't afford it otherwise doesn't seem good enough to prove their review wasn't swayed by not having to pay their own way.

Why do you think so many media outlets were fooled by the "Fat Squad" and other fake news stories? Do you think that the Internet news media is more or less likely to fall for such pranks?

I think reporters are always looking for that story that will capture audiences and make them say "wow" but getting fooled I feel is a result of lazy reporting. They get the scoop about this great "story" but only do surface checking of the facts. The Internet makes falling for these pranks much easier. Anyone can blog and post on the Internet creating the likely hood of people trying to pull pranks much greater.