I read several newspaper web sites every day, and I commend print reporters for being able to put so many details and well-written stories together. There are plenty of times, as a television reporter, I wish I had more time to fill in details.

That being said, we all do what we’re trained to do. So, I offer this piece of advice for the newspaper sites I read (especially local):

Just because you have a video camera doesn’t mean you should put video stories, or briefs, on your site.

I’ve seen some newspaper webcasts, and you don’t look comfortable on-camera. I’ve watched daily “here’s what’s coming in tomorrow’s edition” spots, and they’re not easy to watch.

I know newspaper circulation is dying off because attention spans aren’t that long any more. A lot more people are turning to the web for news and video, but print reporters have a special touch they lend to stories. I’m trained for on-air camera work, and I’m trained to write brief stories for the web.

Stick to what you do best.