What is B-Roll?

• A. A Type of on-air segment for the anchor
• B. Supplementary footage used to illustrate a story
• C. The live field report from the field
• D. The main anchor's introduction video

Answer: (B)

B-Roll is the visuals that accompany and illustrate what’s being described in a news story. It’s the extra footage editors place under or around the reporter’s voiceover or standup to show viewers what’s being talked about, rather than relying on the speaking parts alone. This footage can be shots of scenes, people in action, places related to the story, or any cutaways that help viewers understand and stay engaged. It also gives editors material to make smooth transitions and hide edits. For example, in a story about a park reopening, the B-Roll would show the park itself, people walking, and signs or gates, while the reporter explains the details. This is different from a live field report, which is actual live video from the location, and it’s not the anchor’s introduction video.