WCTV Classes/Training

In order to use the equipment and facilities of Wilmington Community Television, members need to be trained in its use (or show proficiency in its use based on prior knowledge).WCTV staff members conduct basic training classes for our members on an individual basis by appointment only. To reserve time with an instructor, call us at 978-657-4066 or send an email to Operations Manager, Bill Robert.

Here are the basic training classes currently available to WCTV Members:

General Orientation
One hour session including an overview of public access, a brief tour of WCTV and an overview of our resources and opportunities. This program is mandatory for new WCTV members.

Basic Camcorder Techniques
Learn the basic use of a portable digital video camcorder. Instruction includes basic camera operation, shot composition, focus and zoom techniques as well as the use of both natural and artificial lighting.

Basic Studio Production
Learn how to operate equipment in a television studio for a live (or live-to-tape) television studio environment. Instruction includes operation of studio cameras, camera directions, and the use of audio mixers as well as graphic generators. PREREQUISITES: Basic Camcorder Techniques

Introduction to Video Editing
Learn the difference between linear and non-linear video editing. Instruction includes selection of in points and out points, addition of video and audio inserts, capturing and outputting digital video footage as well as the addition
of on-screen graphics.
PREREQUISITE: Basic Camcorder Techniques

Advanced Digital Editing
Make your productions sing with advanced digital video editing skills and techniques. Instruction includes the use of filters for lighting and color correction; slow-motion, fast-motion and other motion effects; the incorporation of specialized transitions; and DVD authoring.
PREREQUISITES: Basic Camcorder Techniques, Introduction to Video Editing

Digital Workflow
Learn how to shoot, edit, and produce programs without tape. Instruction includes the usage of WCTV’s new FireStore portable video recorders and non-linear editing systems.
PREREQUISITES: Basic Camcorder Techniques, Introduction to Video Editing

Graphics for Video
Learn how to make your programs stand out with amazing still and moving graphics. Instruction includes the composition of graphics using 3-D animation software; alpha channel and keyed graphics; and the use of image and video textures. Software use includes Adobe AfterEffects and Ulead Cool3D Studio.
PREREQUISITES: Basic Camcorder Techniques, Introduction to Video Editing

Advanced Camcorder Techniques
Learn how to use the settings on your camcorder to incorporate more into your projects. Instruction includes the use of menu-driven special effects; setup of location lighting kits; and shooting for post-production effects using things like blue and green screen backgrounds.
PREREQUISITE: Basic Camcorder Techniques

Studio Direction
Learn how to take the helm on your own live and live-to-tape studio projects. Instruction includes studio lighting and audio setup; use of a special effects generator for switching between camera shots; co-ordinating video and audio roll-ins; and use of the blue screen wall for chroma-key effects.
PREREQUISITE: Basic Camcorder Techniques, Basic Studio Production

The Next-Generation Studio
Course on use of WCTV Control Room and Studio concentrating on digital program capture, Chroma Keying, freeze-frame buffers and the use of Digital Video Effects. Course will highlight our networked computer capture and storage system as well as the advanced features found on our new Control Room video switcher.
PREREQUISITE: Basic Camcorder Techniques, Basic Studio Production, Studio Direction