After Effects is an industry standard digital post-production 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.  By 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).

Prerequisite: 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

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 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)

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 importing, project management, trimming clips, creating titles, and final outputting.

Note: some class time will be dedicated to review our station’s computer lab rules and procedures (Class fee includes 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

(A Studio Production Mentoring Workshop)

Lights, Camera, Action!

Enjoy the benefits of this workshop by participating in the steps required to complete a successful studio production.   As part of this instructor-lead workshop, everyone is expected to participate as talent, collaborate in developing a script, and execute the plan from inception to studio completion.  This course is recommended for members that have completed any of our core studio equipment workshops, or, for TV producers looking to gain practical experience in conducting a studio production.  Furthermore, if you are looking to complete one of our studio volunteer requirements, participation in this class fulfills such requests.  

Disclaimer: Please note that the intention of this workshop is not designed to certify members in the use of any equipment.  

Prerequisite: TV Producer and/or a studio class 

6 sessions/3 hours each

Min students: 3 / 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 operators in A and B studio productions.

Prerequisite: Studio Camera & knowledge of basic computer concepts.

Certification requires the completion of 1 volunteer CG assignment.

3 sessions, 3 hours each

Min students: 3 / 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 all our available field gear to enhance such productions. The class uses a mix of lectures with hands-on demonstrations to teach items such as proper camerawork, lighting and audio recording techniques when using our JVC cameras and accessories such as camera mounts and prompter system. This is the core course for members interested in conducting field interviews, concerts, events and/or documentary style projects. Upon completion students are certified in the use of station field camera equipment & all accessories for approved productions (Class fee includes course book).

Prerequisite: Studio Camera

Students are required to purchase one SD Card

8 sessions, 3 hours each

Certification requires the completion of project.

Min students: 3 / 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

Recommended for TV Producers (hosts/hostess)

4 sessions, 3 hours each

Min students: 2 / Max students: 8

Are you looking for a way to produce professional live streams from home? OBS (Open Broadcaster Software) is a free program for screen recording and livestreaming. It’s Mac and Windows compliant and provides an open canvas approach by allowing users to capture and mix audio and video sources into one video source which can then be recorded or stream directly to platforms such as YouTube, Twitch, Facebook and others. Learn how to configure the basic settings, manage sources, scenes and transitions in OBS studio and customize it for different purposes or platforms. 

Prerequisite: Strong familiarity with computer concepts. 

Certification requires the completion of project.

2 sessions, 3 hours each

Min students: 2 / Max students: 6

This course is designed to teach the key operating functions of our station’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 mini radio show and present it 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.

5 sessions, 3 hours each

Min students: 2 / Max students: 5

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 format terms and concepts; and an overview of the role of script writing in the industry. 

Prerequisite: Orientation & knowledge of computer concepts.

Recommendation: Students should be station TV and/or radio producer

4 sessions, 3 hours each

Min students: 2 / Max students: 6

Discover the capabilities and learn how to use our Studio D (Recording Pod) facility. Whether

your goal is to use the space as a solo recording studio, record voice-overs or use it

synchronously with our other recording facilities, the accessibility of the space offers

producers many new options. As part of this self-taught workshop, students are provided

with both written and video tutorial materials covering the use of the RODECaster Pro

studio mixer, the equipment accessories and various equipment configuration settings.

Training includes two weeks of practice time and certification requires completion of a 1on1

test-out with the Training Department. 

Prerequisite: Orientation & knowledge of basic computer concepts.

Arrange access to the training materials and inquire about the 1-hr Q&A session with us at the Training Department.

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 our studio A or B facilities. Key equipment positions covered include Camera operations, Lighting, Set-Design, Audio operations, graphics Character Generator, ChromaKey/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 a performance style show 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 productions held in studios A or B.   Note: practice is key for success.

Prerequisite: Studio Camera

8 sessions, 3 hours each

Certification requires the completion of 1 volunteer session in a control room equipment position.  

Min students: 2 / Max students: 6

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 and SSD recorders, 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

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 pre-production 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.

Prerequisite: Studio Camera

3 sessions, 3 hours each

Min students: 2 / Max students: 5