Courses
Download the July through December class schedule here
Coronavirus status:
To ensure everyone's safety and prevent the spread of COVID-19, our implemented safety rules and measures have limited the available number of student spaces per course. Some of our lecture courses have transitioned to online learning using Zoom, however, our core equipment training workshops remain in-person to provide the essential hands-on attention and instruction to learn the various production related equipment.
Furthermore, our small course sizes ensure individual attention but please stay tuned for possible further updates relating to our COVID-19 safety protocols.
Public Access stations provide a forum for all. The key to our success is the public interest and the involvement of residents in the community. Whether you are interested in television production, hosting your own radio show, or just expanding your knowledge and skills with contemporary media and innovative technology, FPA will provide you with the tools you need in pursuit of your goals. Our courses vary in length from a single 3-hour session to workshops lasting 8 sessions. Prices range from $35 to $400 dollars.
For information regarding registration policies and procedures, please check the Training F.A.Q. section. For additional help or to register for a class you may also contact the Training Department at 571.749.1102 or 571.749.1105 or at jerausquin@fcac.org or sburgoon@fcac.org
CORE COURSE DESCRIPTIONS
In this workshop you will learn the basics of digital recording, audio editing, and processing -as well as mixing voice with sound effects and music- using the industry standard Adobe Audition CC program. The class is designed to teach the necessary skills to edit radio shows or creating audio promos. Furthermore, you'll gain an understanding on how to prepare audio files for podcasting or web purposes. Upon completion of this course, use of this equipment is authorized for volunteer purposes or for those working on their own approved FPA program.
We highly recommend beginner students take our Radio Production course first to learn all the capabilities available in our Radio Fairfax and WRLD Radio studios prior to registering in this class.
(Class fee includes course textbook)
Student prerequisite: FPA membership, orientation & knowledge of computer concepts.
Prerequisite: Orientation & knowledge of basic computer concepts.
4 sessions, 3 hours each
Min students: 2
Max students: 6
Adobe Premiere is a real-time computer video editing software application applicable to both the beginner enthusiast 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. Note: some class time will be dedicated to review the FPA computer lab rules and procedures.
Class fee includes course textbook
Prerequisite: Orientation & knowledge of basic computer concepts.
Certification requires the completion of class project.
6 sessions: of 3 hours each
Min students: 2
Max students: 6
Audacity is a free software program that will let you edit your audio files quickly (available for both PC’s or MAC’s). During this 3 hour audio editing workshop, you will learn to develop your audio abilities by editing audio files, mixing music, voice, and sound effects while learning the operations of this easy-to-use multitrack editor. You will also learn how to apply special effects such as reverb, echo, and frequency equalization. This program can be downloaded from www.audacityteam.org. Students will need to have an external storage device such as a flash drive to save the class project.
Pre-requisites: Orientation & knowledge of basic Computer concepts.
1 session: 3 hours
Min students: 2
Max students: 6
Learn the key concepts to conduct an electronic field production. From pre-production planning to on-site preparation, all while learning the use of our latest field camera equipment and all FPA available field gear accessories to enhance such productions. The class uses a mix of lectures with hands-on demonstrations to teach items such as proper camerawork, lighting, audio and recording techniques when using our JVC HM professional camcorders and specialty equipment such as camera mounts and dolly system. This is the core recommended course for members interested in using FPA field equipment to produce a show outside a formal television studio environment such as field interviews, concerts, events and/or documentary style projects.
(Class fee includes course textbook)
Prerequisite: Studio Camera
Required: purchase of 1 SD Card
8 sessions: 3 hours each
Certification requires the completion of class project.
Min students: 3
Max students: 9
For those interested in producing their own television shows using our facilities and/or equipment, this 6-hour class teaches the participants the pre-production, production and post-production responsibilities of an FPA TV Producer. The class covers all key policies and procedures, along with crew planning needs, which students need to learn and prepare for in order to successfully produce their own programs. Completion of this class is a requirement for approval of an FPA television program proposal.
Prerequisite: Studio Camera
Certification requires passing the producer test.
2 sessions: 3 hours each
Min students: 2
Max students: 9
This course is designed to teach the key operating functions of FPA’s radio studios and includes topics such as: operating the audio board, the use and mixing of multiple sources, proper on-air presentation, and the essential station policies and procedures. 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 a show of their own.
Prerequisite: Orientation & knowledge of basic computer concepts.
4 sessions, 3 hours each
Certification requires the completion of class test and on-air assignments.
Class min/max student capacity: 2
This class is designed to teach students how to operate our latest state of the art “virtual set” studio and become certified in all major technical crew positions found in studio C (Technical Director, Audio Operator, CG/Graphics and Teleprompter operator). A major component of this course is learning the operation functions of the NewTek TriCaster system and control surface.
Note: The class does not include a volunteer requirement but practice and continued use of the equipment is highly recommended to improve your understanding and television production skills.
Prerequisite: Studio Camera & knowledge of computer concepts.
6 sessions: 3 hours each
Min students: 3
Max students: 5
This introductory course provides hands-on training in the operation of FPA’s studio cameras. By attending this course the participant becomes proficient enough to volunteer as a camera operator on studio shows produced at FPA, and can begin to earn production experience. At the completion of the class and the one session volunteer requirement, you will be certified as a camera operator for Studios A and B. This course is a prerequisite for many of our TV Production classes.
Prerequisite: Orientation
Certification requires the completion of 1 volunteer studio camera assignment.
1 session: 3 hours
Min students: 3
Max students: 9
Studio Package is an all-encompassing course that provides hands-on training in all the equipment elements needed to help produce a television program using FPA’s Studio A or B. Key equipment positions covered include Camera operations, Lighting, Set-Design, Audio operations, graphics Character Generator, Chroma Key/Green Screen, Technical Directing, the basics of using the Lightworks program and proper production planning tips. If you would like to know how to create a show in Studios A or B – whether it’s a talk show, sports, news or interview segments 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 authorized to volunteer in equipment positions for studio A/B productions. Note: volunteering and continued practice with the equipment is key to improve one’s skills and experience.
Prerequisite: Studio Camera
8 sessions: of 3 hours each
Certification requires the completion of 1 volunteer session in a control room equipment position.
Min students: 3
Max students: 9
ADDITIONAL COURSE DESCRIPTIONS
After Effects is an industry standard digital-postproduction program that provides a comprehensive set of 2D and 3D tools for creating graphic animations, and effects used for broadcast television, web and other video production needs. Using the program, you can composite layers in various ways, apply and combine sophisticated visual effects to enhance a presentation, image or a particular video project. Through the use of class demonstrations and practice sessions this course is designed to teach the essential functions of this program to beginners and those with editing experience alike.
(Class fee includes course textbook AE CC)
Student prerequisite: FPA membership, orientation session. Knowledge of basic computer non-linear video editing is recommended. We also recommend each student to bring their own external hard-drive as part of the course.
Certification requires the completion of class project
6 sessions, 3 hours each
Min students: 2
Max students: 6
This course is designed as a continuation of our Adobe Premiere course and is intended to highlight some of the more advanced features of the program. Students will learn time saving tips and ways on how to streamline their workflow. Topics that will be covered include: Advance trimming, Keyframing, video/audio filters, chroma key, plus multi camera editing.
Prerequisite: Adobe Premiere Essentials
Note: Students must well versed in topics covered in level 1.
Certification requires the completion of class project.
6 sessions, of 3 hours each
Min students: 2
Max students: 6
Course description: Behind every great radio or TV production is great writing. This class will introduce students conducting interview style productions with tools to help them develop the best possible quality stories. Focus will be given to discussing the importance of preproduction logistics, the strategies on how to best craft the story, and how-to tips in handling the challenges that develop in the process. By working with actual examples, students will learn to write effective introductions, and interview questions for use in the studio or in the field.
Student prerequisite: FPA membership, orientation sessions, plus we recommend students to be either TV or Radio FPA producers.
3 sessions: 3 hours each
Min students: 2
Max students: 6
Great looking shows must incorporate great audio to be successful. This course is designed to help achieve that by teaching fundamental ways to improve the audio quality of studio TV productions. Topics covered in the class include: understating the different types of microphones, positioning them on the set and talent, conducting the essential microphone sound checks and monitoring audio during production.
Student prerequisite: FPA membership, orientation session.
Certification requires the completion of 1 volunteer audio assignment.
2 sessions, 3 hours each
Min students: 2
Max students: 6
Learn about the character generator graphic system and how to prepare graphic templates for studio A and B productions. Students will be taught CG theory, file structure, graphic creation (compositions, lower third graphics, and opening / closing credit rolls), along with sequencing (creating sequences, editing sequences, & sequence shortcuts). This course allows students to become proficient enough to volunteer as character generator graphic operators in A and B studio productions.
Student prerequisite: FPA membership, Studio Camera class & knowledge of basic computer concepts.
Certification requires the completion of 1 volunteer CG/Teleprompter assignment.
3 sessions, 3 hours each
Min students: 3
Max students: 6
Appearance is one of the most influential factors in the audience's initial decision concerning the credibility of the performer! Learn all about the essential makeup application techniques and supplies and tools needed to help on-air talent personalities look their best. To look effective on camera, makeup application will not only enhance your production, it will give the performer the added confidence they need to help make the show a success.
Prerequisite: Orientation (beginner level course)
3 sessions: 3 hours each
Min students: 2
Max students: 8
Advance your skills as a host, interviewer, and speaker. Learn how to present your 'best' self, vocally and visually, so that you will feel comfortable, confident, and relaxed in front of any TV or video camera. Learn how to evaluate the set environment and make it work for you. Learn how to prepare for interviews and pre-interview your guests. Learn how to write and deliver clear and powerful messages. Learn how to operate and read scripts from a TelePrompter. Learn how to answer impromptu questions from journalists, reporters, and talk show host effectively.
Prerequisite: Orientation (beginner level course)
3 sessions, 3 hours each
Min students: 2
Max students: 8
This workshop is geared for the motivated producer interested in learning the essential elements and importance of script writing as a way to develop their television show ideas. Topics covered include conceptualizing the idea, understanding script formats' terms and concepts, and an overview of the role of script writing in the industry.
Prerequisite: Studio Camera & it is recommended for students to complete the Producer's Workshop prior to this class
4 sessions: of 3 hours each
Min students: 2 / Max students: 6
Social media is a broad term and this particular workshop is designed to help our current and future producers find ways to use the multitude of available online tools to properly promote and market their program. The course will touch on items such as branding, using open web sources to create startup sites, and locating resources online to network and establish a following.
Prerequisite: Orientation & knowledge of basic computer concepts.
Recommendation: Students should be an FPA
TV / Radio producer with active shows
2 sessions: of 3 hours each
Min students: 2
Max students: 6
Studio Lighting is a combined demonstration and lecture workshop designed to cover the proper setup and functions of the lighting grid in Studio B. Topics covered include: usage of the lighting console, planning a lighting scheme (explanation of the difference between the orange and green tape lights in our grid), the 3 point lighting system, usage of gobo accessories, plus routine safety practices. The overall goal is to improve the visual quality of shows using this studio.
Note: FPA’s studio A and C have a preset lighting grid and the lights cannot be altered but they can be dimmed using the appropriate light console in those studios.
Prerequisite: Studio Camera
2 sessions, 3 hours each
Certification requires the completion of 1 volunteer lighting assignment.
Min students: 2
Max students: 9
Having a technical director operating the switcher is a crucial crew position to have in order to complete a successful show in either Studio A or B (for studio C please refer to the Studio C course). As part of this class students will learn how to properly operate the video switcher, become acquainted with the terminology and duties associated with this crew position, discover the group dynamics involved in working with the Director/Producer, plus understand the available options on how to record a show. This includes understanding our technical standards and acceptable video formats and the available recording equipment options in the control rooms, such as the SD recorders, the SSD reader, how to record using Lightworks and even the option on how to isolate the raw footage from each camera if needed.
Prerequisite: Studio Camera & knowledge of basic computer concepts.
Certification requires the completion of 1 volunteer TD assignment.
3 sessions: 3 hours each
Min students: 3
Max students: 6
The affordability and expanding capabilities of DSLR cameras are leading novices and professional filmmakers alike to embrace this technology into their set of took kits. DSLR cameras allow almost anybody to operate and capture high quality photos or video but the function of these cameras are often misused or their full capabilities remain unutilized by beginners. This course will provide a thorough explanation on their function to allow students to use them like a pro.
Prerequisites: FPA member, basic photography and computer experience.
Recommended: Our instructor will highlight the use of DSLR cameras using FPA’s latest camera model, however, students are welcomed and encouraged to bring their own to better grasp the capabilities and maximize your own cameras’ features.
Prerequisite: Studio Camera
3 sessions: 3 hours each
Min students: 2
Max students: 8
This course continues exploring the use of DSLR cameras for videography purposes. Building upon the functions and terms covered in our Level 1 DSLR course, we will introduce advanced concepts, discuss the wide variety of accessory options available in the marketplace, and wrap-up with an introduction to post-production solutions.
Prerequisite: DSLR Level 1
3 sessions, 3 hours each
Min students: 3
Max students: 8
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
Min students: 2
Max students: 5
This workshop will cover FPA’s rules and policies regarding program underwriting, in-kind donations vs. monetary donations rules, the underwriting credit and announcement rules, tips for budget creation, and recommendations on how to target and begin an underwriting campaign. As a bonus, we will touch upon the basics of distributing your show elsewhere, and share resources to help you better understand the rules on FAIR USE and COPYRIGHT CODES.
Prerequisite: Producer’s Workshop or Radio Production
1 session: 3 hours each
Min students: 2
Max students: 9
FPA SUMMER CAMPS FOR TEENS (ages: 12-18) Attention: All camps are currently full; however, in case of any withdrawal changes we are keeping track of a wait list as a part of each camp.
TV101 introduces youths from ages 12 to 18 to all aspects of Television Production. As part of each camp students will work as a team to create a 30-minute TV program; therefore, we are looking for the best, most dedicated students interested to learn about this exciting media. Students will develop a script / story board idea, learn the appropriate equipment and shoot their show. As part of the TV Studio and Field Camp, the instructor will highlight how to edit the video footage but students will not learn how to edit themselves.
For students interested in learning how to edit we recommend attending the TV Post-Production Camp instead.
Each camp is open for students ages 12 – 18.
The cost of the camp includes FPA’s annual membership fee for each student a - $26 value. We also recommend camp students to remain active for the year and volunteer in the various shows produced at FPA to apply what they learn in the camp and earn production experience.
Download the Summer Camp Registration forms here.
Choose between the two different camps.
TV 101 Studio Camp A& B:
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 how to create a studio TV production and create a half-hour program that will air on Channel 10!
Student prerequisite: FPA membership
10 sessions, 4 hours each + 1 hour meet and greet orientation w/ instructor
Min students: 3
Max students: 10
TV 101 Field Camp:
TV 101 Field Camp: participants will get hands-on training using the JVC HD Pro field cameras and accessories while learning how to conceptualize and produce an electronic field production project. Classroom facilities will be booked for each session; however, a great deal of time will be spent outdoors gathering the footage for the show. During post-production, students will learn the basics of non-linear editing and create a half-hour program that will air on Channel 10.
The TV101 camp fee includes a 1yr FPA membership*
(Book included: The Bare Bones Camera Course for Film and Video)
Student prerequisite: FPA membership
10 sessions, 4 hours each + 1 hour meet and greet orientation w/ instructor
Min students: 3
Max students: 10
*Additional information:
The TV 101 Studio and Field camp fees include 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 and parental consent forms.
TV101: Post-Production (Adobe Premiere) Video Editing Camp:
Are you interested in learning how to tweak and edit videos and better understand the role of a professional video editor?
Participants in this camp will learn the functions of the widely used Adobe Premiere video editing software and the essential techniques to become proficient at editing videos. The camp objectives include two goals, teaching students the tools and workflow on how to properly use this software program and the concepts of basic story-telling to create more compelling TV, Film or online videos. Leading to a more rounded editor.
The Post-production camp fee includes a 1yr FPA membership*
Prerequisites: Orientation
5 sessions, 4 hours each day
Min students: 3 / Max students: 6
Since its inception, radio has had a great impact in the culture of the world. Music, news & conversation, storytelling & humor; radio has an impact in all things and continues to do so.
In our WRLD Radio Summer Camp students will write, produce, direct, edit promos, and work towards creating their very own radio show. Class time is non-traditional with a mix of workshops, in class discussions and hands-on training. During the camp, students will understand the needs of each radio show genre and review the specific requirements for each. In addition, students will know how a radio studio works, take part in workshops devoted to the use of the radio board, develop scripts for radio news, weather report, and/or produce voice-over segments. Students will also learn how to interview their peers and review the art of audio editing using Adobe Audition. During the camp, students will rotate and share key production roles as they bring these projects together and create their very own radio show.
(This is a 1-week Camp: Monday thru Friday, 9am-1pm)
*Additional information:
The 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.
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 form.
REFRESHERS AND RECERTIFICATIONS
Refreshers are not equivalent to the courses we offer. However, if you have taken a prior course with us at FPA but life’s busy schedule has kept you from using the equipment and you simply need a short refresher with one of our instructors then scheduling a 1-on-1 session might be possible. As long as the equipment has not changed from the time a member completed their certification completing one of these 2-hour refresher sessions might help go over any questions or equipment functions a member may have. Doing so will confirm a members’ proficiency with the equipment and confirm that the certifications are up to date.
Note: As a short 2 hour session equipment refreshers will need to focus on specific equipment rather than a general overview of everything the student is certified on. If a member has a wide range of equipment they need to cover either scheduling multiple refresher or attending the class again may be required.
Scheduled by appointment with Training Dept. Fee $75 each.
TECHNICAL PROFICIENCY TESTS
FPA offers various Technical Proficiency Tests options for those members that have prior education and/or experience. If your level of skills are sufficient and you wish to quickly become certified in the use of FPA production equipment then these opportunities may be the right option for you.
All test-outs are schedule by appointment through the Training Department and are designed to determine a member’s operational level of understanding and safe usage of the equipment. The test can consist of a series of hands-on exercises, completion of a short project assignment, completion of a written test, or a mix of each. Each equipment test consists of a final PASS or FAIL grade determined by the instructor/staff evaluation results. Students that do not pass a proficiency test cannot retake it and must therefore pass the appropriate training workshop to become certified.
Proficiency test-outs include the following FPA equipment options.
Studio A/B Equipment, Studio C Equipment, Field Equipment, Radio Equipment and Adobe Premiere Editing.
Prerequisites: FPA member and past education and/or work experience
1 session: 2 hours
Price: $75 per equipment test