The Bread of Video-Making

You know that part of the story maybe about three-fourths of the way through the book? It’s the part that’s the most exciting; you just can’t seem to put the book down because you are smack-dab in the middle of the action. I feel like that is my life right now. I am at a climax.

It is my busiest semester and it’s also my last semester at MPTC. While I am not a full time student, I am taking two 3-credit classes this semester on top of my full time job and an internship.

Yes, I just mentioned I have an internship this semester! I will be working and learning at WBCTV. I haven’t started yet, but I think it’s going to be a wonderful learning experience that will help me reach my career goals. I will be working with professionals and professional equipment. My instructors are always looking for ways for students to get real-world experience, so I very much appreciate my instructor brining this opportunity to my attention. Thank you!

After attending the first week of class, I can see there is still much to learn in the classroom about making videos in addition to what I have learned already and will be bringing to my internship. I am taking both Pre-Production and Post-Production, which I refer to as the “bread” of the video-making process (with production – the actual filming – as the meat).

Pre-Production is the planning part. We only had an overview of what pre-production is in class, but from what I remember this includes the script, storyboard, delegating roles and responsibilities of crew members, equipment needed and deciding what you may need to create in post-production for effects. I’m sure there is even more to it than that, and I will have the rest of the semester to learn more.

Post-Production is the editing part of video-making, to put it simply. It includes sound and video editing, title sequences, special effects, sound effects and touching up errors that may have occurred during filming. Your job in post-production is to mesh everything together into one cohesive story. As I learn more, I’ll be sure to share my class experiences with you. I’ll also be sharing my internship experience, and whatever else this semester brings, in my blog. Keep reading to find out what happens next in the story of my life, my future and my MPTC.

This Summer

This summer is going by quickly. Summer always does, especially when it’s busy. But I’m okay with that because I am looking forward to taking my last two classes. Along with Pre Production, I have recently signed up for a second class, Post-Production. That means I will be earning my certificate a semester earlier than originally planned. I’m really looking forward to Pre-Production where we will delve into storyboards a bit more. I love coming up with stories and planning them. Storyboards are a great way to show your ideas to others and make sure everyone involved understands the plan.

I’ve been working overtime every week this summer, but I have managed to have some fun outside of work, too. I went to Summerfest where a friend and I shared a paddleboat ride. A half hour paddling will sure earn you some muscle! I also hosted my annual Peep Roast. My friends and I have been roasting Peeps for several years now. The sugar melts and turns into a crunchy, golden glaze. It really is the best way to eat a Peep.

I’ve managed to carve out some time for career-related things as well. Since I have several more items to add to my portfolio, I’m working on updating my portfolio website. I’ve had to refresh my memory on a few things, which is why I’m glad I’ve kept my notes from when I was enrolled in the web design courses at MPTC.

Helping others is something important to me, so I’m pleased to have the opportunity to do so for two events this summer. One, which already took place in June, was an event to honor and help veterans; another one, which is happening this week, is called GISHWHES. If you haven’t heard of it, look it up. It’s a scavenger hunt that raises money for charities and encourages participants to do random acts of kindness.

For my friends heading back to class this fall, enjoy the rest of your summer vacation. With the slightly-cooler-than-normal temperatures we’ve been having, I’m hoping for a mild fall. And if you’ve never roasted a Peep over a fire, I highly recommend trying it before summer is over!