It's Not Just Point and Shoot: Techniques for Producing Quality Video for the Web

Course Description:

Video Storytelling is an intensive, highly applied 10-hour course designed for media professionals seeking skills to create video content for web-based and digital platforms, from news websites to YouTube.  Participants will learn best practices in short video shooting, production, editing, and packaging, including hands-on training with Final Cut Pro, the editing software of choice for digital media professionals.   The objective of the course is to provide media professionals, from journalists to specialists, with immediate skills to write, produce, edit, and package video content quickly, effectively, and professionally. 

Taught by experienced media practitioners and academics, the course meets on two consecutive Saturdays at Georgetown University's brand new digital media lab, where participants have access to digital media technologies.  On the first Saturday, participants will gain hands-on camera training and practical tips for producing quality video using both consumer media electronics (such as a Flip camera) and sophisticated professional video cameras. The second Saturday features training on Final Cut Pro, the video editing software used in many newsrooms and digital media organizations.

By the end of the course, participants will produce a finished video package that can complement a professional portfolio and have a concrete understanding of Final Cut Pro.  

The intensive course will also focus on:

?  Identifying stories best told in video

?  Writing broadcast-style copy for narration

?  Avoiding narration pitfalls

?  Interview techniques

?  Framing and Composition

?  Tips on shooting video in different circumstances

?  Tips for getting good audio

?  Shooting exercises

?  Individual critiques of your shooting

?  Tips on editing video

?  Tips on sequencing shots

?  Tips for using transitions and not over-using them

?  Individual critiques of your edited video

?  Instructions on exporting and uploading your video

Please note: Participants must bring a video camera or electronic device capable of shooting video (e.g. Flip camera).  Georgetown University has a limited number of video cameras  for student use the day of the workshop, but does not guarantee availability. 

Designed For:

?  Journalists

?  Freelancers

?  Media specialists

Significant discount for National Press Club members.

Please contact Kimberly Woolf at 202.687.1514 or kdw32@georgetown.edu for more information.