Getting Into the Spirit: The Value of Competition
Success breeds success. This article talks about the importance of getting your students involved in video and film competitions.
The World’s Most Riggable Camera is HERE!!
The “World’s Most Riggable Full Frame Camera” has arrived!!! I know you were waiting on it! It’s finally here!! I have to admit, I wasn’t sure where to start when Blackmagic Design backed up the new product truck for NAB and unloaded them all in an over 2 hour broadcast but I figured the “World’s Most Riggable Full Frame Camera” would be a good place to start for a lot of reasons not the least of which is the fact that it’s the most riggable camera in the world… The Blackmagic Design Pyxis is a 6k camera that comes ready for the world.
The Best Mistake In Live Sports Production
Tom shares how the most famous shot in golf was almost missed and a timely lesson on live production with a Masters focus
Doin’ It DifferentLy
Tom shares how comparing your program to others is dangerous but there are three ways that you can help get to where you want to be without driving yourself over the line.
Student Project: Short Vertical Film
Looking for a fun project to meet your students where they are? Consider running a vertical short film festival in your program. This article dives into that process.
Portfolios: What They Are and Why Students Need Them
I have to face facts… the world is moving and I am getting left behind. I did not learn how to create for a vertical world. But now, more than ever, our students need to be creating for the consumer who knows only tall skinny video. That applies to everything, especially their portfolios. This article talks about the importance of creating a good reel and making it relevant in a doom-scrolling society.
Premiere Gal: Next-Gen Video Editing: Exploring AI's Role in Student Filmmaking
We are so excited to have Kelsey from Premiere Gal contribute this article to us. Check out this article on how AI can reshape your video editing landscape.
Nickelodeon’s Super Bowl Coverage Should Be A Goal For Your Classroom
Tom describes how you can leverage Nickelodeon’s Super Bowl broadcast for your classroom. Find out how to teach about target audience, branding, and more.
Is Industry in the dna of your program?
Tom discusses why you need an effective advisory council and how to build one.
Elevate Your Video Production: Creating a Professional iPhone Rig
In the realm of filmmaking, my iPhone 15 Max Pro, accompanied by a strategic selection of accessories, has become a powerhouse for professional video production. Anchored by the sturdy SmallRig cage and the reliable K&F Concept tripod, my budget-friendly rig is a testament to innovation. The Belkin USB-C hub takes the spotlight, offering seamless connectivity for high-speed data transfer, external recording, and simultaneous charging. Short Rixmie USB-C cables, though compact, prove their versatility in creative setups. This setup, a narrative of adaptability, includes essential components like the Anker Power Supply, Sandisk SSD, Hollyland Lark Max, and the iPhone 15 Pro Max, collaborating harmoniously to redefine the potential of smartphone filmmaking in a single handheld device. Join me on this cinematic journey, where every element contributes to a story of breaking barriers and unlocking the full spectrum of filmmaking possibilities.
Sometimes work just sucks.
Discover the transformative power of daily positivity in the world of teaching as we delve into the candid experiences of an 18-year classroom veteran. Facing the challenges of burnout and the quest for renewed passion, this article explores the impact of making intentional, positive choices each day. Drawing inspiration from Dr. Amy Cuddy's TED Talk on "faking it until you become it," the narrative unfolds with humor and honesty.
Unleashing Creativity: A Cinematic Journey with My Students
Josh recently had the chance to get out of the classroom and get back to the reason he is in the classroom… making movies with his students. This article looks at that incredibly and invigorating experience.
Don’t Be That Teacher: Extra Credit Doesn’t Exist…
As the teacher that I hope you are, you have poured everything into trying to get everything right and tried to improve every day. You have worked through plans, created engaging assignments, and pushed yourself and your students to be the best possible. Only to be told that you didn’t do enough for that student to reach their goal, no matter if that goal is to pass or for an A. It’s all your fault because your 95% effort wasn’t enough to get them over the 45% effort.
Starting Over and Moving Forward
“If I had known then what I know now” those words from one of my favorite Pearl Jam songs have been echoing in my head for the last two months. The “then” in this case was late February 2010, when I started my first job in education. I was hired as a Program Assistant for a federal grant at a small school in South Georgia. I was 24 years old and I had no idea what I was doing.
How To Remove Buzz From Audio Recordings
“Noisy Audio” is always a struggle. Here are steps to remove the audio before and after you hit record!
Just do It: How To Start Student Play By Play
Tom details points of focus if you are starting your program’s play by play and color commentary for your live shows.
Teaching To The Test Pattern Podcast Episode 129: Where HAve You Been?
In this episode of Teaching To The Test Pattern, Tom discusses his new job, why he made the change, and how it will impact StreamSemester.com and the podcast.
What Are The 5 Major Problems With Wireless Microphones?
Wireless microphones are convenient and versatile devices that allow you to move freely on stage or in the room without worrying about cables. However, they also come with their own challenges and potential issues that can affect the quality and reliability of your sound. This blog post will discuss the five major problems with wireless microphones and how to solve them.
Clean Your Room… Clear Your Mind
Over the last decade, I have visited a lot of video production classrooms and met with hundreds of video production educators. There are some truths that I have realized lately that I felt need to be shared as the expectations of you continue to increase.
The Blackmagic Camera App Should Change Your Classroom
On September 14th, Grant Petty and his Mary Poppins desk gave the IBC 2023 Update. There are two times each year that you can be guaranteed that Blacmagic will announce new products and this year was no different. But this one is different! There were several things announced including new cameras and other tools but this announcement should change the way you teach students how to use cameras.