What is Multimedia Journalism?

Curious about Multimedia Journalism as a higher education option? Learn all about it on this page.
What is Multimedia Journalism? - Journalism has been a fundamental aspect of humankind ever since societies and social structures were created. Like other aspects, it has evolved tremendously over time. From ancient Rome’s Acta Diurna to the internet, we have come a long way. It wouldn’t be wrong to say that journalism has evolved the most in the Information Age or Digital Age. While earlier forms of journalism stuck to the spoken or written word, journalism, as we know it today, is more immersive, more engaging and even interactive. In this article, we will deep dive into Multimedia Journalism, the best courses and colleges to pursue Multimedia Journalism and more. Read on.
Also Read -
Salaries of Journalists in India
- What is Multimedia Journalism?
- Why is Multimedia Journalism so Relevant?
- Skills Required to Become a Multimedia Journalist
- Best Courses and Colleges to Build a Career in Multimedia Journalism
- Job Roles in Multimedia Journalism
- The Future of Multimedia Journalism
What is Multimedia Journalism?
When traditional journalism was incorporated with pictures, audio and video elements, it came to be known as Multimedia Journalism. This shift from traditional journalism to multimedia journalism has been gradual and continuous. The earliest newspaper known to mankind, the Acta Diurna, was strictly text on stone slabs or metal sheets. With advancements like the invention of parchment, paper, the printing press, etc., it became easier to add visual elements to journalism. Audio was added with the radio, video with the television and all of it with the internet. Even on the internet, we saw variations of AV and static content. We have video coverage, short videos, recreations, animations, GIFs, memes, documentaries, digital posters, illustrations, etc. that are employed by journalism and incorporated into its content.
Today, journalism, without its core elements of text, audio and video, will not appeal to its audiences. All of these elements make journalism multimedia journalism, which is ever-evolving to fit the preferences, attention spans, and interests of its audiences.
Why is Multimedia Journalism so Relevant?
Multimedia journalism has become most relevant because of the following reasons -
- Speed - With the internet and the introduction of the 5G frequency band, the transmission of information has never been faster. The way people consume news has also become faster (information at fingertips, shorter attention spans). Multimedia journalism (AV) fits all of these requirements since it takes less time than reading a solely written piece of information, and news breaks faster.
- Reach and Engagement - The distribution of multimedia journalism, for the most part, is electronic and heavily depends on the internet. As of the beginning of 2025, about 60-68% of the world population uses the internet. This ensures an enormous reach for multimedia journalism. And pretty much every online platform (primarily social media) where multimedia content is featured is now interactive. The audience can comment and share their opinions, instantly share pieces with others, react with emojis, etc., which makes it super engaging.
- Credibility through Coverage - Multimedia journalism incorporates video footage from events, far-off places, video and sound bytes from people in focus, witnesses, live coverage from sports events, award ceremonies, etc., that the audience can view and hear. This makes multimedia journalism more credible when compared to traditional journalism, where the audience has to take the word of some text on paper or a faceless voice on the radio.
- More Striking - The AV aspect of multimedia journalism has a lasting impact on the memory of the audience. This keeps them engaged and interested for longer.
Skills Required to Become a Multimedia Journalist
Just as there are several components to multimedia journalism, professionals in the field must possess several or a combination of skills. Some skills that make employment in the industry easier are mentioned below.
Strong Writing and Reporting |
Fact-Checking Skills |
Interviewing Skills |
Some Knowledge of Legal Restrictions |
Journalistic Ethics |
Videography |
Video Editing Skills |
Photography Skills |
Sound Recording and Editing |
Social Media Operations |
Web Design |
An Understanding of Content Management Systems |
Search Engine Optimisation |
Visual Storytelling |
Clear Communication |
Basic Graphic Design |
Overall Technological Adaptability |
Multitasking |
Best Courses and Colleges to Build a Career in Multimedia Journalism
To build a career in multimedia journalism, it is essential that students choose the right course and the right institute to start off (undergraduate degree courses). Then they can go get a master’s degree or even a PhD in the field. Some prevalent courses in our country include -
- BAJMC
- BMM (Bachelor of Mass Media)
- BMS (Bachelor of Media Studies)
- Bachelor of Journalism
- Diploma in Journalism
- Diploma in Photojournalism
- MAJMC
- PG Diploma in Journalism and Mass Communication
Some of the best colleges to study multimedia journalism are mentioned in the table below.
Top Colleges to Study Multimedia Journalism in India |
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Job Roles in Multimedia Journalism
After pursuing a course in Multimedia Journalism, students can assume the following job roles -
- Multimedia Journalist
- Digital Journalist
- Video Journalist
- Social Media Journalist
- News Reporter (Broadcast)
- News Anchor
- Scriptwriter
- Camera person
- Photographer
- Videographer
- News Producer
- Content Producer
- Editors
- Photojournalist
- Social Media/ Digital Marketing Professional
- Copywriter
- Content Writer
- Assistant Directors
- Community Managers and Moderators
- Influencers
- YouTuber
The Future of Multimedia Journalism
The future of multimedia journalism is being heavily influenced by rapid technological change, particularly the rise of AI, the Metaverse, etc., the dominance of mobile platforms, and the increasing demand for engaging visual storytelling. This influence will keep evolving as new technologies and innovations are added to the trends of creating and consuming content.
Journalists are adapting by learning new digital tools, including those powered by AI, while also focusing on creating content optimized for mobile consumption. Additionally, with the rise of misinformation, there is an increased need for journalists to focus on ethical reporting and fact-checking. Also, news organizations are constantly exploring new business models and diversifying platform distribution to ensure long-term sustainability. Just like they have entered the social media space, they will continue to maintain their presence in upcoming spaces.
Read More -
Salary of Journalists in India
Top 10 Mass Communication Colleges for UG
Best Filmmaking Colleges in India
