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Download the January thru June 2013 course schedule

Our small course sizes ensure individual attention and hands-on instruction

Public Access stations are important to members of the community because they provide a forum to all. The key to our success is the public interest and the involvement of residents in the community. Whether you’re interested in television production, hosting your own radio show, or just expanding your knowledge and skills with contemporary media and cutting edge technology, FPA will provide you with access to the tools you need in pursuing your goals.

Class registration is available for all active FPA members.  Our courses vary in length from a single 3-hour session to workshops lasting 10 sessions.  Prices range from $35 to $500 dollars. However, most are in the $100 to $300 range.

For more information or to register for a class please contact the Training Department at 571.749.1102 or at [email protected].

Course Flow Chart

CORE COURSE DESCRIPTIONS

Studio Cameras (Introductory Production Assistant Class)

This class provides hands on training in the operation of studio cameras and a basic overview of Studios A/B.  By attending this course the participant becomes proficient enough to volunteer as a camera operator on studio shows produced at FPA and begin earning production experience.  At the completion of the class and volunteer requirement, you will be certified as a camera-person for Studios A and B. 

This course is a prerequisite for most TV Production classes.

Prerequisite: Orientation

1 session: 3 hours

Certification requires the completion of Volunteering on 1 FPA show.

Price: FREE 

Producers Workshop

This 3 hour class provides the participant with information regarding the Pre‑production, Production and Post‑production responsibilities of an FPA Producer.  The participant will also be introduced to the rules and regulations plus crew requirements regarding TV production at FPA.

Prerequisite: Production Assistant

1 session: 3 hours

Price: $50 

Studio Package

Studio package is an eight week, 24 hour course that provides hands on training in Camera, Lights, Set-Design, Layout, Audio, CG, Chroma Key, Switcher/directing and taping.  If you would like to shoot a show in studios A or B–whether it’s a talk show, sports, news or interview segment then this is the class for you.  By the end of this course you will be certified in the use of all the studio and control room equipment, and be a certified TV Producer ready to start a show of their own. 

Prerequisite: Production Assistant

8 sessions: of 3 hours each

Price: $285

Field Package

This class will teach you the basics of field shooting, from pre-production planning to on-site use of our field equipment.  With a hands-on focus in camera work, lighting and audio recording techniques the course is designed for those interested in producing on location shows, field interviews and/or documentaries.  Upon completion, you will be certified as an FPA Field Producer and certified in the use of FPA's Panasonic DVX 100B field cameras and accessories. 

(Book included: Bare Bones Camera Course for Film and Video)

Prerequisite: Production Assistant

Required: 1 mini DV

8 sessions: 3 hours each

Certification requires the completion of class project. 

Min. students: 3

Max. students: 8

Price: $285

Studio C

This class is designed to teach students how to operate our latest state of the art “virtual set” studio and become certified as an FPA TV producer in the process. Learn all the components of Studio C and take advantage of creating a show in a virtual setting.  Such advantages include a faster set up time, small crew requirements and creating picture-in-picture effects.

Prerequisite: Production Assistant

6 sessions: 3 hours each

Min. students: 3

Max. students: 5

Price: $230

Radio Production

This course is designed to teach the basics in radio operations: operating the radio board, the use and mixing of multiple sources, and the proper on-air presentation. You will also

learn how to develop a 30 sec promo. You will be required to prepare a few mini radio shows and present them live, on-air as the class progresses. Upon completion of the class students are certified as FPA Radio Producers and will be able to start show of their own.

Prerequisite: Orientation

6 sessions:  3 hours each

Certification requires the completion of class project.

Price: $196 

Audacity

Audacity is a free software program that will let you get up and running quickly. This class uses the Audacity 1.3.4 Beta Version for Windows. In this 3 hour audio editing workshop, you will learn to develop your audio creativity by recording, editing, and mixing music, voice, and sound effects with the easy-to-use graphic multitrack editor. You will also learn how to apply special effects such as reverb, echo, and frequency equalization. At the end of the workshop, you will be familiar with mixing different sounds into a coherent, listenable product.

Students may use their own laptops if they install the Audacity 1.3.4 Beta Version for Windows or Macs which can be downloaded from (http://audacity.sourceforge.net/download/). Students will need to have an external storage device such as a memory stick which holds at least 10 Mega Bytes free space or any other external drive or USB flash drive to develop a class project.

Pre-requisites: Orientation and an understanding of PC’s and Windows.

1 session: 3 hours

Price: $35

Digital Audio Fundamentals (Audio Editing)

In this workshop you will learn the basics of digital recording, editing, and processing, as well as mixing voice with sound effects and music, on Adobe Audition 5.5. Plus you'll gain the ability to develop & edit promos for use on Radio Fairfax or WRLD. Furthermore, you’ll gain an understanding of audio production necessary to create a small, home digital studio and put sound up on personal Web pages.

Prerequisite: Orientation

& Familiarity with Windows

6 sessions: 3 hours each

Min. Students: 3

Max. Sutdents: 5

Price: $285

Adobe Premiere CS6 Essentials

Adobe Premiere Pro CS6 is a real-time computer video editing software application which is practical for both beginner enthusiats and those working in the professional field.  Our Adobe Premiere class has been designed for new students in mind in order to teach them the essential editing techniques and functions of this program.  Some of the items that will be covered in the class include the basics of capturing video/audio, project management, trimming sequences, video generating, creating titles, and final outputting, including laying back to videotape.

(Book included: Premiere in the Classroom)

Prerequisite: Orientation

5 sessions: 3 hours each

Min. Students: 2

Max. Students: 5

Price: $225

Avid Media Composer 6 Fundamentals

Avid Media Composer 6 provides students with exposure to the core skills, workflows, and concepts involved in using this high end professional non-linear editing program.  It covers the new timeline, direct tools, layouts and interface, mixing frame sizes and aspect ratios, video capturing and project management. Sessions are divided between demonstration and hands-on practice, with dedicated lab time in order to complete a short final project.  For those that are interested in learning this program, whether it's for personal use, for work or to help them in this field, a familiarity with computers and basic knowledge of editing is recommended.  

(Book included: Avid for Beginners)

Prerequisite: Orientation

8 sessions: 3 hours each

Min. Students: 2

Max. Students: 5

Price $500


ADDITIONAL COURSE DESCRIPTIONS

Panasonic DVX 100B Seminar

Get hands-on training on the Panasonic DVX 100B field camera.  No prior television or video production experience is necessary. By the end of this course, you will have a rudimentary familiarity with and be certified in the use of the Panasonic DVX 100B field camera.

Prerequisite: Production Asst.  

3 sessions: 3 hours each

Price: $125

CG For Beginners

CG Deko for Beginners & Teleprompter class focuses on the basic practical application of character generation using the Avid Deko 1000. This three session (9 hour) course will provide hands on training specifically designed for the operation of the Studio Graphics Software and related Graphics components. Students will be taught CG Theory, File structure, Graphics (Creating Graphics, Composition, Editing, Centering, plus Credit Rolls), and Sequencing (Creating Sequences, Editing Sequences, & Sequence Shortcuts). This course allows students to become proficient enough to volunteer as Graphics Operators on any FPA show.

At the completion of the class, you will be certified to volunteer as CG Operator in Studios A, B & C.

Pre-requisite: Orientation & Knowledge of basic Windows concepts.

2 sessions: 2 hours each

Certification requires the completion of 1 volunteer CG assignment

Price: $50         

Adobe Photoshop

Do you want to create exceptional images, design a logo for your program or alter and improve a photograph? This class is designed to teach you vector editing and masking, improved layer controls, layer styles, typographic control, drawing tools, text warping, and image distortion tools. Join us and learn more about Adobe Photoshop.

(Book included: Photoshop CS for Dummies)

Prerequisite: Orientation

6 sessions: of 3 hours each

Price: $285

Apple Motion

Learn the basic fundamentals of Apple Motion. This class is designed to teach you to create customized animated effects. Record motion and changes in real time and apply behaviors to objects without tedious key framing.  Motion revolutionizes motion graphics the way Final-Cut Pro revolutionized non-linear editing.

(Book included: Motion 5)

It is highly recommended that students be familiar with video editing prior to taking this class.

Prerequisite: Orientation

6 sessions: 3 hours each

Min. Students: 2

Max. Students: 5

Price: $285

On-Camera Talent

Refine your skills as a presenter and interviewer.  Learn how to create the best “you” and the best environment for you. Maximize your on-camera impact. Learn how to present your best self–vocally and visually–and how to evaluate the set and make it work for your program objectives. Learn how to pre-interview your guests.

Prerequisite: Orientation & Writing & Interviewing for TV & Radio Broadcasters

4 sessions: 3 hours each

Price: $200 

Voiceover

In this Voiceover class, you will begin to build the skills needed to obtain greater command of your on-mic voice in order to create compelling voice-overs. By the end of the class, students will have practiced the art of cold readings and effective reading skills for voiceovers.  Students will learn the art of narration, commercials, political spots and what constitutes a good demo in this fast paced class.

Prerequisite: Orientation

4 sessions: 3 hours each

Price: $200

The Art and Science of Interviewing

Behind every great Radio or TV broadcast, is great writing. This Writing & Interviewing for Radio & TV class will instruct students on the proper skills needed to conduct successful live or taped interviews, crafting the language for your program in ways that will maximize quality. By working with actual examples, students will learn to write effective introductions, and interview questions for use in their programs. 

Note: It is mandatory for students to bring in Interview topics they would like to use for their Radio or TV shows. Class will work together with the instructor to re-write and improve the samples.

Pre-requisites: FPA Radio or TV Producers

2 sessions: 3 hours each

Price: $100 

Underwriting

The class will cover FPA’s rules and policies for program underwriting, targeting potential underwriters, writing proposals and letters to potential funders, budget creation, and in-kind donations vs. cash, underwriting credits, and follow-through.

Prerequisite: FPA certified TV or Radio Producers

1 session: 3 hours

Price: $35

Flypack Training

A portable unit ideal for field produced programs.  The flypack is designed to perform the same functions as a TV studio control room, giving producers the ability to use up to three switchable cameras, add graphics and create full audio productions in the field. 

Prerequisite: Field Package/Panasonic DVX

1 session: 3 hours

Min. Students: 2

Max. Students: 5

Price: $35

Audio For Television

Great looking shows must incorporate great audio to be successful.  This course is designed to help achieve that by teaching fundamental ways to improve studio audio productions.  Learn professional techniques of selecting microphones, positioning them on the set and talent, testing microphones in sound checks, and monitoring audio during production. 

Prerequisite:  Orientation

2 sessions: 3 hours each

Min students: 2

Max students: 5

Price: $50

Technical Directing

A key position needed for any TV studio production is that of the Technical Director.  This class will concentrate on the basics of the switcher for Studios A and B (for Studio C please refer to the Studio C course).  The participant will also learn how to properly operate the switcher, become acquainted with the terminology and duties associated with the crew position, and learn group dynamics involved in working with the Director/Producer. 

Prerequisite: Production Assistant

2 sessions: 3 hours 

Min students: 3

Max students: 5

Price: $50

Make-up for Television

The ability to appear in front of a camera looking one's best is crucial to the success of any production.  Appearance is the most influential factor in the audience's intial decision concerning the credibility of the performer!  To look effective on camera, make-up application will not only enhance your production, it will give the performer the added confidence they need. 

Prerequisite: Orientation

4 sessions: 3 hours each 

Min. Students: 2

Max. Students: 8

Price: $50


FPA SUMMER CAMPS FOR TEENS (ages: 12-18)

TV101 introduces youths from ages 12 to 18 to all aspects of Television Production. Join us for this exciting 2 week course to see what fun the world of television can be! There is a lot of work involved in putting together a program, so you'll be an integral part of the team. Your show will only be as good as each crew member, so be prepared to bring your talents & creativity.

Download the Summer Camp Registration forms here.

TV101 Summer Camps

TV 101 Studio Camp: includes instruction in pre-production, scriptwriting, teleprompter, lighting, camera, set design, on-air talent, computer graphics, technical directing and non-linear editing.  Learn the basics of TV production and create a half-hour program that will air on Channel 10! 

(This is a 2 week camp: Monday thru Friday, 8am-12pm)

TV 101 Field Camp: particpants will get hands on training using the Panasonic DVX 100B field cameras and learn how to conceptualize a field project by working in teams of 2.  In addition you will learn how to create a PSA, add lighting, audio elements, narrations, and music to your project.  During post-production students will learn the basics of non-linear edit and create a half-hour program that will air on Channel 10. 

(This is a 2 week camp: Monday thru Friday, 9am-1pm)

*Additional information: The TV 101 Studio and Field camp fee includes a 1 year FPA membership.

(Book included: The Bare Bones Camera Course for Film and Video)

Prerequisites: Orientation. 

Students will cover 10 sessions of 4 hours each day and completion of a class project. 

Parent's permission required for youths between 12-18 years old. 

To register please contact the Training Department or mail in the appropriate camp registration form and parental consent from. 

FPA is offering a 5% early registration discount for our 2013 Television and Radio Teen Summer Camps.  In order to qualify for the discount all paperwork including registration forms, parental consent forms and payments must be received by May 31st, 2013. 

-TV 101 Discount Fee = $475.00

WRLD Radio Summer Camp

WRLD Radio Camp: student groups will write, produce, direct and edit a Radio show.  Class time is non-traditional (a mix of hands on workshops and in class discussions) covering various components from operating the radio board, the use and mixing of multiple sources, and the proper on-air presentation.  Furthermore, students will learn the basics of digital recording and editing using Adobe Audition 3.0.  As they complete these projects students will rotate and share key production roles in order to create their own radio show that will air on Channel 37! 

(This is a 1-week Camp: Monday thru Friday, 9am-1pm)

*Additional information: WRLD radio camp fee includes a 1 year FPA membership. 

Prerequisites: Orientation. 

Students will cover 5 sessions of 4 hours each day & completion of a class project. 

Parents permission required for youths between 12-18 years old. 

To register please contact the Training Department or mail in the appropriate camp registration form and parental consent form. 

FPA is offering a 5% early registration discount for our 2013 Television and Radio Teen Summer Camps.  In order to qualify for the discount all paperwork including registration forms, parental consent forms and payments must be received by May 31st, 2013. 

-WRLD Discount Fee = $332.50


REFRESHER & RECERTIFICATION WORKSHOPS

If you have taken prior courses at FPA (within a year or two) but life's busy schedule has kept you from using the equipment frequently our refresher and recertification workshops are ideal for students that wish to familiarize themselves with the equipment once again. Students receive a 1-on-1 hands-on review with the instructor in each of these 1-2-hour review and recertification sessions.

TV Producers R & R Studio Package

Prerequisite: previously been certified in this class  

1 session: 1-2 hour

Workshop scheduled by appointment with Training Dept.

Price: $75

TV Producers R & R Field Package

Prerequisite: previously been certified in this class  

1 session: 1-2 hour

Workshop scheduled by appointment with Training Dept.

Price: $75

Radio Producers R & R Radio Production

Prerequisite: previously been certified in this class  

1 session: 1-2 hour

Workshop scheduled by appointment with Training Dept.

Price: $75

TV Producers R & R Studio C

Prerequisite: previously been certified in this class  

1 session: 1-2 hour

Workshop scheduled by appointment with Training Dept.

Price: $75

TV Producers R & R Video Editing

Prerequisite: Previously been certified in either Final Cut Pro, Premiere or Avid.

1 session: 1-2 hours

Workshop scheduled by appointment with the Training Department

Price: $75


TECHNCIAL PROFICIENCY TESTS

Technical Proficiency Test (Studio Package)

Are you looking to become a certified FPA Studio Producer? If you have prior experience and wish to quickly be certified in the use of our equipment then this opportunity is for you. Our proficiency test consists of a hands-on studio equipment test and a short written exam.  

Prerequisites: None

1 session: 1-2 hours

Schedule test by appointment with Training Dept.

Price: $75

*For an additional $25 students have the option to register for a 1hr refresher course with the instructor prior to the test

Technical Proficiency Test (Field Package)

Are you looking to become a certified FPA Field Producer? If you have prior experience and wish to quickly be certified in the use of our equipment then this opportunity is for you. Our proficiency test consists of a hands-on Field equipment test and a short written exam.  

Prerequisites: None

1 session: 1-2 hours

Schedule test by appointment with Training Dept.

Price: $75

*For an additional $25 students have the option to register for a 1hr refresher course with the instructor prior to the test

Technical Proficiency Test (Radio Production)

Are you looking to become a certified FPA Radio Producer? If you have prior experience and wish to quickly be certified in the use of our equipment then this opportunity is for you. Our proficiency test consists of a hands-on radio studio equipment test and a short written exam.  

Prerequisites: None

1 session: 1-2 hours

Schedule test by appointment with Training Dept.

Price: $75

*For an additional $25 students have the option to register for a 1hr refresher course with the instructor prior to the test

Technical Proficiency Test (Video Editing)

Students with prior video editing experience can register to be tested on our non-linear equipment (our computer lab is currently set up with Final Cut Pro version 7, Adobe Premiere 6, and Avid Media Composer 6).  Once certified you will be allowed to use our Edit 1 lab computers to work on your FPA show or other projects that will air on our stations. 

Prerequisite: None

1 session: 1-2 hours

Schedule test by appointment with the Training Department

Price: $75

*For an additional $25 students have the option to register for a 1 hour refresher course with the instructor prior to the test.