mediabistro.com Course Listings

Instructor Bio

Laurie Scheer's Courses

Brand Yourself – (Class starts February 10)

TV Writing: Spec Script – (Class starts January 19)

Writing Scripts for Online Video – (Class starts November 24)

Laurie Scheer is a former vice president of programming for WE: Women's Entertainment and is currently a key member of the Film Faculty at Flashpoint Academy in Chicago. She has worked as an assistant, d-girl, and producer for some of the most powerful media conglomerates in the world, including ABC, Viacom, Showtime, and AMC-Cablevision. She has been a professor at numerous universities across the US and considers herself a media goddess, helping creative professionals realize their goals of working and improving 21st century media. Her book Creative Careers In Hollywood: From Extra Girls to Errand Boys (Allworth Press, 2002) chronicles and celebrates all of the movies ever made that feature women working in Hollywood. She also has a DVD, How to Pitch and Sell Your Screenplay.

Testimonials

Laurie has boundless enthusiasm and offers the opportunity to succeed. -- Paul Hagen

"Aside from priceless information and insight based on her background in TV, Laurie offers the constructive feedback and moral support that fledgling TV writers are unlikely to find elsewhere." -- Roslyn Ross

"Laurie's seminar was by far the best I have ever taken! She's the most knowledgeable instructor I've ever had, excellent on every level." -- Jamila Bey

"Laurie's class provided invaluable tips. She's one of the coolest instructors I've ever had. I would recommend her classes to anyone interested in learning more about writing for film and television." -- Imani Dawson

"Laurie's generous advice about television writing helped give me the confidence I needed to negotiate the contract process. I'll always remember that if you are a professional, you're worth it." -- Gina Laurie

"Laurie's classes are a must for anyone wanting to progress in the television industry. It is quite unusual to have someone offer to share their experiences, and even more unusual for them to truly want you to succeed." -- Tamara Federici, writer & former associate producer, Chappelle's Show

"Laurie is a professional who generously shares with her students her love and first-hand knowledge of the complex TV industry." -- Nancy West

"Laurie was informative, funny, and extremely knowledgeable. I found myself riveted and wanting to know more. If anyone is thinking of a career in television writing, this course is your starting point." -- Inger Slade

"Laurie's message of being well-researched, prepared, and realistic -- while also having supreme confidence in yourself and your ideas -- is one that all producers should hear." -- Tony Monterastelli

"Laurie gives you a thorough step-by-step process that will make you hone in on your concepts, brand, writing, and pitching skills." -- Denise Hendricks

"Laurie is friendly and personable but she will also get in the ring with you and make you face yourself." -- Laura Buchholz

"Laurie will help you plan the route between where you are now and that dream job in TV." -- Leslie Knox

"Laurie was exceptionally knowledgeable about the industry and provided insider information. I will happily take more courses with her." -- Candi Carter

"Laurie's a supremely talented, intuitive, and inspirational tutor." -- Joan Smith

"Through a series of fun exercises, Laurie helped me define my brand as a writer. I had no idea it could be so simple. And her information about marketing online is priceless. She is truly the media Goddess!" -- Tessa Smith McGovern

"I'd recommend Laurie's course to anyone interested in a career in TV writing. I found her passion for the subject matter and genuine enthusiasm in our projects very refreshing." -- Nate Paige

12/4/2009: On-Camera Media Training: One-Day Intensive - New York, NY - Debra Alfarone - 1 day, $475

Sat, 21 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

WHEN Friday, December 4, 10 am-4 pm

WHERE New York (Midtown East)

WHO Executives, entreprenuers, PR reps, writers, bloggers, content creators, educators, community managers

Lunch will be provided.

PRICE
$475 ($425 for )
more info

Add to Calendar
iCal | Outlook

Course Details

Video is increasingly vital to brand-building, client relations, and creating an overall media strategy. But on-camera appearances don't come naturally to everyone. In this intensive one-day session, you'll learn how to communicate effectively in front of the camera, no matter what the audience.

A morning training session will be followed by afternoon on-camera taping and critique.

In this course you will:

Film an on-camera appearance
Get one-on-one coaching and critique
Hone your message and deliver it succinctly
Gain confidence for any interview situation
Practice using a teleprompter

Video samples will be made available online to course participants within three business days after the class.

Course Syllabus

On-Camera Media Training: One-Day Intensive (PDF)
View a sample syllabus for this class here.

Related Courses

• Final Cut Pro – New York (Class starts January 30)

• Intro to Multimedia Journalism – ONLINE (Class starts December 7)

• Mediabistro Digital Journalism Certificate Program – ONLINE

Tell me when courses like this are scheduled.

View all courses in

Instructor Bio

Debra Alfarone's Courses

Intro to TV News Reporting – New York (Class starts January 14)

On-Camera Media Training: One-Day Intensive – New York

Debra Alfarone is a reporter at NBC30 in Hartford, CT. Previously, she worked as a general assignment reporter with News 12 Connecticut. Debra's news experience also includes 2 years of general assignment reporting at SI76, a Time Warner Cable affiliate in New York City, and a year of working as a traffic reporter in the tri-state area for News 12 Traffic and Weather.

Debra's reporting achievements include honors from the AP, Society of Professional Journalists, The Connecticut Press Club and the Telly Awards. Debra has worked her way up from camera-person at NY1, the 24-hour Time Warner Cable station in New York City, to her dream job of reporting on the people and events of southwestern Connecticut.

Testimonials

Debra's methods show the realities, trials, and tests as well as the rewards of working as a field reporter for TV news. She is bright, well-spoken, and animated and kept the energy going all the time. -- Jenna Duncan

"Debra has given me the priceless insight into this industry that I would not get in a typical J-school course." -- Kondomar Herrera

"Debra was amazing. She was very positive, honest, open, and aware. She knows the industry and gave very seasoned advice. When critiquing she employs positive reinforcement." -- Tamara Gitt

"Debra is a fantastic teacher and person. In a small amount of time I learned a great deal from her. This course was well worth the money as there is so much you can learn!" -- Nicole Mendelsohn

"Debra's story on getting started will definitely inspire anyone who wants to get in this business. She has a wonderful energy and sense of humor that keeps you engaged as she imparts her knowledge about news writing and facing the camera." -- Erica Castaneda

"I would enroll in ANY course that Debra teaches! I love her energy!" -- Fran Trelease

"Debra was awesome! She was honest about the business and very helpful. She really gives you the facts!" -- Toccara Labady

"For anyone who is interested in becoming a TV news reporter, this class is for you. If you are lucky enough to have Debra as an instructor, you are guaranteed to have an enjoyable and informative experience." -- Drue Hontz

"Debra was a great instructor. She was exciting and she had a personal concern for each of our careers." -- Tramone Miles

"This class was really fun and informative. What a great intro to on-camera reporting!" --Emily Ray Baraf

12/5/2009: Weekend Warrior: 2-Day Film School - Los Angeles, CA - Dov S-S Simens - 2 days, $414

Sat, 21 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

WHEN 1 weekend, Saturday, December 5 - Sunday, December 6, 9 am-6 pm

WHERE Hollywood, CA

MORE INFO Email us, or call 212-547-7890

PRICE
$414 ($394 for )
more info

Add to Calendar
iCal | Outlook

Course Details

If you want to be a successful screenwriter, producer, or director, or just get your script made into a movie, our 2-Day Film School is a must. 82% of producers and directors are screenwriters who, just like you, never attended a film school. Why waste 4 years and $120,000 when everything needed can be learned in one weekend with this acclaimed crash course that is credited with launching thousands of careers?

In the past decade, graduates of this program, including Quentin Tarantino, Baz Luhrman, Guy Ritchie, Queen Latifah, and Will Smith, have grossed over $6,000,000,000 within the film & television industry. This course is so superb because the instructor treats attendees like adults and cuts right to the chase with hard facts. On Saturday, you will quickly learn how to write each check (one of 38 checks you must write to see your film made) as you make your first independent feature film on budgets from as low as $5,000 to as high as $10,000,000. On Sunday, you'll learn a guaranteed step-by-step process, used by the pros, to attend film festivals, attract a distributor, and maximize revenues from the theatrical, foreign, video, cable, and broadcasting industries.

In this class, you will learn:

Producing: The secrets of packaging and dealmaking
Directing: How to break down a script and select shots
Financing: The independent method of funding films
Screenwriting: The tricks of writing & selling scripts
Budgeting: How to prepare a proper film/tv budget
Scheduling: The nuts and bolts of planning a shoot
Cinematography: Cameras and lighting techniques
Film Festivals: Which to attend and how to win
Distributing: How to secure a distributor and maximize sales
Digital Filmmaking: The nuts and bolts of DV

By the end of class, you will have:
The knowledge to finance, produce, shoot, and submit your film to festivals. All attendees receive a Filmmaker's Workbook, a Producer's Diploma, and a Graduation Certificate.

Admission requirements:
The ability to comprehend rapid information in a short period of time; the desire to make and distrubute a movie.

Related Courses

• TV Writing: Spec Script – ONLINE (Class starts January 19)

• How to Make a Documentary Film on a Shoestring Budget – Los Angeles (Seminar on December 8)

• Branding Yourself (Video) – ONLINE

Tell me when courses like this are scheduled.

View all courses in

Los Angeles, CA

Instructor Bio

Dov S-S Simens's Courses

Weekend Warrior: 2-Day Film School – Los Angeles (Class starts December 5)

Weekend Warrior: 2-Day Film School – New York (Class starts December 12)

Dov S-S Simens is considered one of Hollywood's leadings film instructors. After a decade of producing and line-producing in the syndicated television industry and the low-budget foreign market, Dov dedicated himself to film instruction. He has taught at America's three leading film schools (UCLA, USC, and NYU) and is the creator of the Hollywood Film Institute in Santa Monica, California. Dov presents the acclaimed "2-Day Film School�" 40 times per year around the world. He has also written a monthly column for Moviemaker magazine, appeared as a guest speaker at Sundance, Toronto, and Raindance Film Festivals, penned From Reel to Deal a Warner Books tome, and founded the filmmakers portal, www.WebFilmSchool.com.

Testimonials

Dov is a knowledgeable, entertaining person with a big heart. He demystified the secrets about movie-making and brought them to the group in a straightforward manner. Dov is worth every penny and more. -- Elke Weiss

"Dov is one amazing teacher! His examples were excellent and his attitude upbeat and very practical. He tells it like it is and then shows aspiring producers how to 'work with the system'." -- Sue Mirialakis

"Words cannot express the transformation you undergo in just 2 days with Dov! He is truly inspiring and worth his weight in gold!" -- Sally Lourenco, editorial director

"Dov packs a 4-year college curriculum into 2 intense days of instruction where you learn everything you need to know to make your first feature film and how to make sure people see it. Highly recommended." -- Jacqueline Jouret, editor

"Dov's course is a must for anyone with a vision who lacks the industry know-how to bring their ideas to fruition. He fueled my imagination, and de-mystified the process of executing my vision." -- Jennifer Katz

"Dov is the best instructor I've ever had. He is not only from the industry, he is the industry! Dov, thank you very much -- it was the best investment ever!" -- Monique Wegmueller

"Dov's 2 day class was the best investment in the last 10 years!!!! I learned so so so much, even though I'm coming from the film industry (post-production)." -- Monique Wegmueller

12/8/2009: How to Make a Documentary Film on a Shoestring Budget - Los Angeles, CA - Kevin Leadingham - 3 hours, $65

Sat, 21 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

WHEN Tuesday, December 8, 6:45-9:45 pm

WHERE The Meeting Room, 2999 Overland Ave., Ste. 205A, Los Angeles, CA 90064

MORE INFO Email us, or call 212-547-7890

PRICE
$65 ($50 for )
more info

Add to Calendar
iCal | Outlook

Course Details

You have a great idea for a documentary film, but don't have much money to make it. In the past when someone wanted to undertake a documentary film project one big question always arose: "Where do I get all the money I need to make it?" Today, however, the increasing accessibility and affordability of today's digital technology makes it easier and easier for first-time filmmakers to make compelling and entertaining documentaries on a shoestring budget. This course will outline some of the most important cost-saving steps needed in bringing your documentary project from conception to an audience.

In this seminar, you will learn:

What type of projects can be made on a shoestring budget
Where to save money during pre-production, production, and post-production
The best equipment to use and how to get it
Where to find free crew members to help on your project
How to go about trying to raise extra money
Some of the best ways to get your film seen by an audience

Related Courses

• Pitch Letter Essentials – Los Angeles (Seminar on December 16)

• TV Writing: Spec Script – ONLINE (Class starts January 19)

• How to Make a Successful Short Film (Video) – ONLINE

Tell me when courses like this are scheduled.

View all courses in

Journalism

Los Angeles, CA

Instructor Bio

Kevin Leadingham's Courses

How to Make a Documentary Film on a Shoestring Budget – Los Angeles (Seminar on December 8)

Kevin Leadingham splits his time working on independent documentaries and serving as a show runner on network and cable docu-series programming. His credits include shows that have aired on ABC, Fox, MTV, Discovery, TLC, ESPN, Travel Channel, and A & E.

His first documentary was the award-winning A Refugee and Me, about his relationship with a Buddhist monk living in Thailand. In 2006, Kevin completed producing the documentary film Maid In America, a portrait of Latina domestic workers in Los Angeles, which aired as part of PBS's Independent Lens. Additional documentary credits include documentary projects: Mama's Gold, (orphans in China), Children of No Man's Land, (Children crossing the U.S. border), and The Last Starlet, (1950's Blond bombshell Mamie Van Doren).

Testimonials

Kevin is friendly, accessible, and extremely knowledgeable about all aspects of documentary filmmaking. He treats all participants with courtesy, respect, and encouragement. -- Danila Oder

"Kevin was great. I felt that he was genuinely willing to share all he knew for our benefit, and his one-on-one approach made it that much better. He was honest and VERY helpful." -- Paulina Giraldo

"Kevin had the necessary knowledge and the willingness to teach what inspires people like myself to continue doing what we love." -- Arturo Garcia

"Even if I only got one idea out of a class like this, it would be worth the price. I was able to get several ideas from Kevin's class that I had not thought of before!" -- Michael Wood

"Even if you are just thinking about doing a documentary, you have to take Kevin's class. He has all the info from start to finish." -- Jerome Cleary

12/12/2009: Weekend Warrior: 2-Day Film School - New York, NY - Dov S-S Simens - 2 days, $389

Sat, 21 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

WHEN Saturday & Sunday, December 12 & 13, 9 am-6 pm

WHERE New York City (East Village)

LEVEL General

PRICE
$389 ($359 for )
more info

Add to Calendar
iCal | Outlook

Course Details

In this class, you will learn:

Producing: The secrets of packaging and dealmaking
Directing: How to break down a script and select shots
Financing: The independent method of funding films
Screenwriting: The tricks of writing & selling scripts
Budgeting: How to prepare a proper film/tv budget
Scheduling: The nuts and bolts of planning a shoot
Cinematography: Cameras and lighting techniques
Film Festivals: Which to attend and how to win
Distributing: How to secure a distributor and maximize sales
Digital Filmmaking: The nuts and bolts of DV

By the end of class, you will have:
The knowledge to finance, produce, shoot, and submit your film to festivals. All attendees receive a filmmaker's workbook, a producer's diploma, and a graduation certificate.

Admission requirements:
The ability to comprehend rapid information in a short period of time; the desire to make and distribute a movie.

Related Courses

• TV Writing: Team Sketch Comedy – New York (Class starts February 2)

• Branding Yourself (Video) – ONLINE

• How to Make a Successful Short Film (Video) – ONLINE

Tell me when courses like this are scheduled.

View all courses in

Instructor Bio

Dov S-S Simens's Courses

Weekend Warrior: 2-Day Film School – Los Angeles (Class starts December 5)

Weekend Warrior: 2-Day Film School – New York (Class starts December 12)

Testimonials

1/12/2010: Screenwriting - New York, NY - D.B. Gilles - 12 weeks, $610

Sat, 21 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

WHEN 12 weeks, Tuesdays, January 12 - April 6, 6:45-9:45 pm

WHERE New York (Midtown East)

LEVEL Intermediate/advanced

PRICE
$610 ($575 for )
more info

Add to Calendar
iCal | Outlook

Course Details

You've had a great idea for a screenplay for years. You can write and have a good eye for a story. But you just can't seem to get from concept to finished product. What you need is an in-depth look at structure, dialogue, character, and development. And what do you need the most? To finish your script!

In this intense, 12-week workshop, you'll work with like-minded classmates and veteran mb instructor D.B. Gilles (author of The Screenwriter Within) to finish and workshop a complete draft of your screenplay.

In this class, you will learn:

The three-act structure of screenwriting
How to enhance your storytelling abilities and create more drama in every scene
How to format and structure your screenplay
How to create effective, memorable characters
What to do with your screenplay when it's finished

By the end of class, you will have:
A complete first draft of your screenplay.

Course Syllabus

Screenwriting (PDF)
View a sample syllabus for this class here.

Related Courses

• Screenwriting Workshop – New York

• How to Make a Successful Short Film (Video) – ONLINE

Tell me when courses like this are scheduled.

View all courses in

Instructor Bio

D.B. Gilles's Courses

Screenwriting – New York (Class starts January 12)

Screenwriting – New York (Class starts February 6)

D.B. Gilles is the author of The Screenwriter Within and The Portable Film School. He is co-author of the George W. Bush parody W. The First 100 Days: A White House Journal. His essay on writer's block, The Short Attention Span Screenwriter, is a popular Internet download. He has also been published in The New York Times.

D.B.'s comedy Men's Singles has been produced throughout the world. He wrote the screen adaptation of the play Spinning Into Butter, which stars Sarah Jessica Parker. He is also featured in the book Ask The Pros: Screenwriting Questions Answered By Industry Professionals. D.B. teaches screenwriting and comedy writing at New York University's Tisch School of the Arts. He has also taught in the Graduate Film Division at Columbia University. He is a member of the Dramatists Guild and Writers Guild of America.

Testimonials

D.B. is the best around. His knowledge of the craft is unlimited and he pushes you to be the best writer you can be. I have taken this class twice and plan on doing it again and again for the sheer volume of work I'm creating because of it. -- Claire Bosch

"D.B. is so helpful and encouraging, devoting lots of attention to each student individually. I would recommend this course to any screenwriter who might need guidance, feedback, or just a little creative push." -- Elissa Santo

"Screenwriting with D.B. is even better the second time. Students are able to keep working on their drafts, and get even more feedback. Students who have taken this class before should definitely take it again." -- Elle Tracy

"D.B.'s class is a must. He'll help you develop an idea, create a plot outline, and provide great feedback as you flesh it out into a full-length screenplay. I've taken his screenwriting workshop series five times already." -- Carlo DeCarlo

"I wrote a play that was produced half a dozen times as a staged reading. D.B. took it from that point to a finished screenplay. I can't imagine a better way to get a script finished." -- John Tepper Marlin

"D.B. creates a focused environment that allows you to trust your instincts and gets you writing. He helps you get those words on the page, so that all you need to do is go back and make it better." -- James Babbin, Austin Film Festival quarterfinalist

"D.B. provided a solid understanding of the structure and format of a feature length screenplay. With this knowledge, insight into the business, and honest feedback I was able to complete a first draft by the final class." -- Jacquetta Szathmari

"D.B.'s knowledge of and passion for screenwriting made writing my screenplay possible. He is a generous and caring teacher with a great sense of humor, which made for a very fun and productive class." -- Elizabeth A. Kent

"D.B. is one of the most brilliant, articulate, and helpful screenwriters out there. When he reads a scene, he picks up on it, finding not only what's in the script but what's swimming around in the writer's own mind." -- Pia Sawhney

"Everyone who needs motivation to write should take this class. I started with an idea and shaped it into a finished screenplay during the length of the class." -- Susan Burns

"D.B.'s chief concern was always about crafting a workable structure for every script. He was supportive, honest, forthcoming with information, and humorous." -- Richard Boehmcke

"D.B. is excellent. If you want insightful comments, constructive criticism, and a completed script in 12 weeks, he's your man." -- Jessica Caldwell

"Being a young screenwriter, D.B. taught me invaluable information that many screenwriters don't learn early enough in their writing careers." -- Ted Papadopoulos

1/14/2010: Intro to TV News Reporting - New York, NY - Debra Alfarone - 4 weeks, $450

Sat, 21 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

WHEN 4 weeks, Thursdays, January 14 - February 4, 6:45-9:45 pm

WHERE New York (Midtown East)

LEVEL General

PRICE
$450 ($425 for )
more info

Add to Calendar
iCal | Outlook

Course Details

Learn the basics of what it takes to be a good television news reporter, including how to structure a piece, write a killer script, deliver a live report, and conduct on-camera interviews. If you have a background in print journalism (or even if you don't), this class will provide the fundamentals to pursue a career in television journalism.

Students will tape an interior report and an exterior stand-up (i.e., a "live from the scene" report).

In this class, you will learn how to:

Write a compelling script
Set up feature pieces
Turn a print article into a good television piece
Understand the video editing process
Deliver a good "stand-up"
Tell a good TV package from a bad one
Film a feature or breaking news story

By the end of this class, you will have:
Two taped appearances.

Students who have taken this class have gotten on-air jobs at:
Fox Business Channel, Fox Philadelphia, WLNY-TV 55, News 12, WDBJ News 7, and more.

Course Syllabus

TV News Reporting (PDF)
View a sample syllabus for this class here.

• TV News Writing – ONLINE (Class starts January 25)

• Mediabistro Circus: Interactive Newsroom�The New York Times (Video) – ONLINE

Tell me when courses like this are scheduled.

View all courses in

Instructor Bio

Debra Alfarone's Courses

Intro to TV News Reporting – New York (Class starts January 14)

On-Camera Media Training: One-Day Intensive – New York

Testimonials

1/19/2010: TV Writing: Spec Script - ONLINE - Laurie Scheer - 12 weeks, $610

Sat, 21 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

WHEN 12 weeks, January 19 - April 13
Online chats: Tuesdays, 8-9 pm ET

WHERE Online. Click here for more info.

LEVEL Intermediate/advanced

PRICE
$610 ($575 for )
more info

Add to Calendar
iCal | Outlook

Course Details

So you want to break into scripted television? There is only one writing sample accepted by TV agents, producers, and networks across the board: a spec script of a current show. Getting your foot in the door starts with demonstrating your ability to write for someone else's show.

And you know you don't belong in a beginner's class. After all, you've already mastered the basics: churning out words, editing yourself, meeting deadlines. If you keep up with this workshop, you'll finish the first and second drafts of your sitcom or one-hour drama script. Each week, you'll learn about essentials like structure, plot, character, and dialogue, and get feedback on your script from your instructor and fellow students. The entire last class will be devoted to reading final drafts and learning how to get your script into the right hands. By the end of the class you'll be ready to submit your spec or pilot script to potential agents and buyers.

In this class, you will learn:

How to create characters that viewers will want to invite into their homes week after week
Basic formatting for comedies and dramas (2 act to 4 act structure)
Structure: how to break for commercial, find a good ending, and wrap things up seamlessly
The secret behind perfect dialogue
Subplots: Where to put them, how to tie them in
How your script reflects the existing show and climate within the marketplace
The cyclical behind-the-scenes events of the broadcast and cable world, including a discussion about pilot season
Everything there is to know about the TV business from an industry expert

By the end of class, you will have:
A complete spec script of a one-hour drama or sitcom.

Admission Requirements:
Please submit a letter of interest (including a brief work history), and a writing sample (less than 2,000 words).

Course Syllabus

TV Writing: Spec Script (PDF)
View a sample syllabus for this class here.

Related Courses

• Writing Scripts for Online Video – ONLINE (Class starts November 24)

• How Online Video Is Changing the Internet, Part 1: Overview (Video) – ONLINE

Tell me when courses like this are scheduled.

View all courses in

Instructor Bio

Laurie Scheer's Courses

Brand Yourself – (Class starts February 10)

TV Writing: Spec Script – (Class starts January 19)

Writing Scripts for Online Video – (Class starts November 24)

Testimonials

1/23/2010: Create Quick Video for the Web - New York, NY - Karen Nourse and Zachary Bennett - 2 days, $225

Sat, 21 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

WHEN 2 days, Saturday, January 23 & Sunday, January 24, 12-4 pm

WHERE New York (Midtown East)

WHO Writers, editors, bloggers, and PR and marketing professionals who want to create video for the web

LEVEL Beginner

PRICE
$225 ($200 for )
more info

Add to Calendar
iCal | Outlook

Course Details

Popular web sites are more than just words. Pages with video get double the traffic of text-only pages, and users stay on sites with video longer. But you're not a filmmaker. How are you supposed to create great video content on your own?

The good news is that you don't need to become a cinematographer to shoot great video. You can use consumer-grade cameras, basic microphones, and limited lighting to create video that does the trick. And you can do it yourself.

In this weekend workshop, you'll learn how to write video scripts and story outlines, shoot and edit it, and broadcast your work on video-sharing sites like YouTube.com. We'll explore excellent examples of online video, discuss the cameras and microphones you'll need, and teach you to shoot, edit, and encode.

In this class, you will learn:

How you can take your content to a new level with video
Which programs you need to know
How to tag your entries to attract new viewers
Formulas you can count on to work for this medium
How to develop a style that keeps viewers coming back for more

By the end of class you will have:
The ability to shoot, edit and encode video for the web. You will get hands-on experience with a Canon HDV camera, a walk through of Final Cut Pro, and you will come away with real skills in journalistic video shooting and editing.

Note: Equipment will be provided. Students do not need to own cameras.

Course Syllabus

Create Quick Video for the Web (PDF)
View a sample syllabus for this class here.

Related Courses

• Writing Scripts for Online Video – ONLINE (Class starts November 24)

• How to Promote Yourself on Facebook (Video) – ONLINE

Tell me when courses like this are scheduled.

View all courses in

Instructor Bio

Karen Nourse and Zachary Bennett's Courses

Create Quick Video for the Web – New York (Class starts January 23)

Karen Nourse and Zachary Bennett have over 15 years of experience in digital video and media. Karen teaches digital video at Parsons: The New School for Design in the Design and Technology graduate program.

Zachary has helped setup digital studios for NBC, IVillage and Guideposts.com. Additionally, he edited the acclaimed series Spain on the Road Again for PBS with Mario Batali and Gwyneth Paltrow. They have both been instrumental in creating and enhancing video blogs, web series, and specials for clients ranging from The New Yorker, Vogue, IVillage, OnNetworks, MSN, Guideposts, Weight Watchers, Barefoot Books, and Break.com.

Testimonials

I have rarely had teachers with this combination of warmth, personality, and knowledge. Karen and Zachary know how to share and inspire. -- Rick Rodgers

"Karen and Zachary work well together. They are approachable, knowledgeable, and have great insight into the world of journalism. I am pleased that they were able to share so many crucial details about videography that I didn't know before attending this class." -- Ebony Clark

"This course will give you everything you need to know in order to make the right decisions and financial investment to get started in digital media. You'll also learn costly mistakes to avoid." -- Victoria Wurdinger

"Karen and Zachary are successful professionals and very willing to share their hard-earned experience to help students produce compelling videos for the web. This was an action-packed course with a great deal of practical information." -- Kathleen McGrath

"This class was terrific. Karen and Zachary are not only talented filmmakers, but also excellent teachers. I highly recommend their class to anyone interested in learning video for the web. You will walk away with new skills and the confidence to proceed!" -- Meryl Zegarek

"This course has inspired me. My mind is bubbling with ideas that I can't wait to try out." -- Jocelyn Sambira

1/25/2010: Screenwriting Workshop - New York, NY - Edmund Lee - 4 hours, $125

Sat, 21 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

WHEN: Monday, January 25, 6:30-10:30 pm

WHERE New York (Midtown East)

PRICE
$125 ($100 for )
more info

Add to Calendar
iCal | Outlook

Course Details

Have you ever had a movie idea but weren't sure of the best way to turn it into a full fledged script? This workshop will show you how to take the first step and translate any idea into a working screenplay. Whether you're a journalist with a feature story you always thought would make a great movie, or someone with a unique storyline for a feature film, this course will teach you how to think like a screenwriter. We will also discuss how to market yourself to potential screenwriters in a trade desperate for original ideas.

In this intensive one-day workshop -- limited to 12 students -- you will bring in your ideas, whether an article you wrote or a page of notes, to be read and commented on by the class and instructor to establish its screenplay potential. You will learn how to identify, structure, and outline a script based on your ideas.

In this workshop, you will learn how to:

Identify the dramatic elements in your story, and which elements to eliminate
Make use of key facts to make your script stand out
Format and structure your screenplay
Register your screenplay
Make the most of your screenplay and reporting knowledge in negotiations with producers

By the end of the workshop, you will have:
A written movie pitch, logline, and synopsis based on your idea as well as a working outline for a script.

Admission requirements:
Students should have pages of a screenplay already written for in-class critique.

• How to Make a Successful Short Film (Video) – ONLINE

Tell me when courses like this are scheduled.

View all courses in

Journalism

Instructor Bio

Edmund Lee's Courses

Screenwriting Workshop – New York

Edmund Lee is a freelance journalist based in Brooklyn. He has written for The New York Times, the Daily News, New York, W, and the Village Voice, for which he wrote a series of stories on the rise of Asian gangsters in New York. Using material from his research, he collaborated on a feature script with filmmaker Michael Kang to create West 32nd, which premiered at the Tribeca Film Festival in 2007. He is currently at work on feature projects.

Testimonials

After taking Edmund's class, I feel encouraged that the reporting skills I possess will be a great help in writing my screenplay. -- Shannon Mullen

"Edmund brings a lot of insight and skill to the classroom. He is an excellent diagnostician, and helped me figure out how to take what I had and turn it into something that will be much more productive. I left with a much more useful logline and synopsis." -- Carole Luke

1/25/2010: TV News Writing - ONLINE - Wendy Gillette - 4 weeks, $350

Sat, 21 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

WHEN 4 weeks, January 25 - March 1
Chats Mondays, 9-10 pm ET

WHERE Online. Click here for more information.

LEVEL Intro

PRICE
$350 ($325 for )
more info

Add to Calendar
iCal | Outlook

Course Details

There's a lot more to television news than an attractive anchor and eye-catching video. A great TV news story can only come together with effective writing, video, research, and a solid script. Even if you have prior writing experience, writing for television news is a different animal, meant to be understood by the ear, not the eye. Competition for TV news jobs is high, but there is a constant demand for TV news writers, producers, reporters, and anchors. All of these jobs require you to be a solid writer using broadcast style.

This class will give you the inside scoop on how to write effective and attention-getting TV news copy. You'll learn why a conversational tone is key, and why -- when it comes to broadcast news -- everything your grammar teacher taught you can pretty much be thrown out the window. Whether you're just breaking in or already have some experience writing news copy, this class will help you sharpen your TV news writing skills.

In this class, you will learn:

The differences between a reader, anchor intro, voiceover, and package -- and how to write all of them
How to write for the ear
The differences between writing for print and television
What should be included in stories and what should be left out
How to write to video
How to devise a compelling first line that will get viewers to pay attention
Which jobs in the industry you are best suited for
How to get a job interview and ace a TV news writing test

By the end of the course you will have:
At least eight samples of your television news writing (including a reader, several voiceovers, and numerous packages that follow the format for TV news stories)

The online classroom has several interactive components:

Instructors post lectures once a week. You can read them online, print them, or download them at your convenience.
Students post completed assignments for feedback and discussion by the instructor and class.
Weekly chats allow your class to get together via instant message. Transcripts are available for review if you can't attend.
Technical support is available from mediabistro staff.

Course Syllabus

TV News Writing (PDF)
View a sample syllabus for this class here.

• Produce Your Own Internet Series (Video) – ONLINE

Tell me when courses like this are scheduled.

View all courses in

Journalism

Instructor Bio

Wendy Gillette's Courses

TV News Writing – (Class starts January 25)

Wendy Gillette is a television reporter, producer and anchor with more than 12 years experience. She currently produces and reports for CBS NewsPath, providing reports for all the CBS affiliates in the country. She previously worked as a reporter and anchor in five local markets including New York's WCBS. She received her bachelor's degree from Rutgers College and her master's degree from Boston University.

Testimonials

Wendy is a passionate, giving, and inspiring instructor who brings energy and enthusiasm to the classroom. She gives priceless advice that you will not find anywhere else to aspiring journalists. -- Irina Gorodetskaya

"Wendy is fun, down-to-earth, and understands how to relate to us in a serious yet accessible way. She has a good eye for improvements and offers the most beneficial constructive criticism." -- Samaia Hernandez

"A must-take class for anyone with an interest in appearing before a camera, whether for an interview, XYZ-TV, or You Tube. This class will teach you to be comfortable as you relay news about your business or the world. Wendy was down to earth, engaging, and provided valuable feedback." -- Lois Weiss

"Wendy is an awesome instructor. Her coaching was invaluable. I gained tremendous insight about my performance, feel very prepared, and am looking forward to landing a job in broadcasting. The course was given as a gift to me and truly it's like the best gift I could have ever gotten!" -- Arlene Mukoko

"This class is a perfect place to be if you've been considering a career as a reporter but are not quite sure where to begin. She strikes a perfect balance of being tough but very encouraging. I would definitely recommend this class to anyone looking to start a career as a reporter." -- Christina Marrazza

"Wendy is a very good judge of on-air performance. Her critique was insightful and very helpful." -- Lorraine Aronowitz

"Wendy is generous with her time and her advice, offering valuable insight into the world of TV news." -- Eloise Parker

1/30/2010: Final Cut Pro - New York, NY - Karen Nourse - 2 days, $425

Sat, 21 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

WHEN 2 days, Saturday, January 30 & Sunday, January 31, 10 am-4 pm

WHERE Midtown West

LEVEL Beginner

PRICE
$425 ($400 for )
more info

Add to Calendar
iCal | Outlook

Course Details

Just because Final Cut Pro is the standard for professional video editing doesn't mean a you can't master the basics in a weekend. In this two-day hands-on course, you'll learn how to perform basic editing functions in a fun, friendly classroom just for media professionals.

Topics include basic setup, adjusting and customizing preferences and settings, capturing video and audio, organizing your media, editing and trimming techniques, audio editing and audio creation, finishing, and final output. You'll also learn what kind of Mac to use to get the most out of Final Cut Pro.

Each student will work on a Mac computer fully loaded with the latest version of Final Cut Pro (version 7) and sample media.

By the end of the class you will have:
The ability to edit and encode video using Final Cut Pro and Quicktime. You will get hands-on experience on a Mac and you will come away with real skills in non-linear, random access video editing from capturing to outputting.

Note: This class is taught on Macintosh computers, but you should also be able to use the the skills you learn on a PC. Email us if you have any questions.

Admission Requirements:
Students should be comfortable with working on a Mac. Please submit a letter of interest (including a brief work history).

Course Syllabus

Final Cut Pro (PDF)
View a sample syllabus for this class here.

Related Courses

• Create Quick Video for the Web – New York (Class starts January 23)

• Produce Your Own Internet Series (Video) – ONLINE

Tell me when courses like this are scheduled.

View all courses in

Instructor Bio

Karen Nourse's Courses

Final Cut Pro – New York (Class starts January 30)

Karen Nourse teaches in the graduate MFA program at Parsons: The New School for Design. She received great praise and four awards for her entry into the 48 Hour Film Festival in NYC in June 2009, where she won Best Directing, Best Editing, Best Musical Composition, and Best Supporting Actor for her film The Gift. She and her partner Zachary won the WNYC Radio Soundcheck Music Video contest for the video she produced for The Fiery Furnaces song The End is Near.

Additionally, she heads the video department at Guideposts magazine and owns a growing content development company, content.io. To see links to all of her work, visit www.kzfilms.com.

Testimonials

Karen had tons of experience. The class was a focused group wanting to further their understanding of Final Cut and how it could help their careers. Thanks, Karen! -- Kathleen Drew

2/2/2010: TV Writing: Team Sketch Comedy - New York, NY - Kevin Allison - 8 weeks, $499

Sat, 21 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

WHEN 8 weeks, Tuesdays, February 2 - March 23, 6:45-9:45 pm

WHERE New York (Midtown East)

LEVEL General

PRICE
$499 ($475 for )
more info

Add to Calendar
iCal | Outlook

Course Details

Whether you have taken a sketch comedy writing/acting workshop before or not, this course is unlike any other. The emphasis here is on writing sketches with your classmates, as you would on a professional writing staff. All sketches brought into this workshop or originating in this workshop become the collective property of every member of the class. Each week, we will do collaboration exercises (at least one new exercise per week and repeats of the most fundamental exercises) in groups as small as two and as big as the whole class. Students will bring in sketches they authored individually, but those sketches will be used in exercises wherein other members of the class revise the material. Each student will meet privately with the instructor three times during the course to discuss their progress as a team writer. While most sketch comedy workshops might include one or two collaborative assignments, this one brings a collaborative component into every script.

In this class, you will learn:

How to structure a scene
What keeps an audience in suspense
How to build scripts with others
What makes characters funny
How to revise sketches in rehearsal

By the end of class, you will have:
A co-authored sketch package ready for submission

Students who have taken this class have been featured on:
BET's Comic Views One Mic Stand

Course Syllabus

Sketch Writing (PDF)
View a sample syllabus for this class here.

• On-Camera Media Training: One-Day Intensive – New York

Tell me when courses like this are scheduled.

View all courses in

Creative Writing

Instructor Bio

Kevin Allison's Courses

TV Writing: Team Sketch Comedy – New York (Class starts February 2)

Kevin Allison is a member of the legendary sketch comedy troupe The State, best known for their self-titled series on MTV. Recent film and TV appearances include Reno 911!: Miami, The Ten, The Next Girl I See, VH1's Best Week Ever, and HBO's Flight of the Conchords. Kevin's writing has appeared in The Village Voice, Giant, Premiere, and Film Journal International. He has served as the artistic director of The Peoples Improv Theater in NYC and writes for Blue Man Group Productions. His second one-man show of character sketches, F*** Up, has played in New York, San Francisco, and Philadelphia. The State's DVD box-set of their MTV series will be released during the summer of 2009.

2/6/2010: Screenwriting - New York, NY - D.B. Gilles - 12 weeks, $610

Sat, 21 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

WHEN 12 weeks, Saturdays, February 6 - May 8, 1-4 pm

WHERE New York (Midtown East)

LEVEL Intermediate/advanced

PRICE
$610 ($575 for )
more info

Add to Calendar
iCal | Outlook

Course Details

You've had a great idea for a screenplay for years. You can write and have a good eye for a story. But you just can't seem to get from concept to finished product. What you is need an in-depth look at structure, dialogue, character, and development. And what do you need the most? To finish your script!

In this intense, 12-week workshop, you'll work with like-minded classmates and veteran mb instructor D.B. Gilles (author of The Screenwriter Within) to finish and workshop a complete draft of your screenplay.

In this class, you will learn:

The three-act structure of screenwriting
How to enhance your storytelling abilities and create more drama in every scene
How to format and structure your screenplay
How to create effective, memorable characters
What to do with your screenplay when it's finished

By the end of class, you will have:
A complete first draft of your screenplay.

Course Syllabus

Screenwriting (PDF)
View a sample syllabus for this class here.

Related Courses

• Screenwriting – New York (Class starts January 12)

• Screenwriting Workshop – New York

• How to Make a Successful Short Film (Video) – ONLINE

Tell me when courses like this are scheduled.

View all courses in

Instructor Bio

D.B. Gilles's Courses

Screenwriting – New York (Class starts January 12)

Screenwriting – New York (Class starts February 6)

Testimonials

1/1/3000: Breaking Into Broadcast (Video) - ONLINE - 7 minutes, $

Sat, 21 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

SYNOPSIS

In this brief tutorial, you�ll get the latest info on the broadcast media industry, including insight on where the field is going, and the skills you�ll need to break in.

Chris Ariens, Executive Editor of Mediabistro.com, will be your guide.

DURATION/TIME
3 videos

7 minutes

Add to Calendar
iCal | Outlook

Course Details

This Crash Course is an On Demand Video.

Click here to preview and read more details.

• Media Life Skills: Cool Tools for Goal Setting (Video) – ONLINE

• Mediabistro Circus: New World Intimacy-- Social Media and Twitter (Video) – ONLINE

Tell me when courses like this are scheduled.

View all courses in

1/1/3000: How Online Video Is Changing the Internet, Part 1: Overview (Video) - ONLINE - Manoush Zomorodi - 21 mins., $

Sat, 21 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

PRICE
Get access to all Mediabistro on Demand videos for only $19 per month ($15 for ).

SYNOPSIS
Video on the web is rapidly expanding beyond the "clip culture" of amateur videos of skateboarding dogs. This Crash Course walks you through the latest trends in the continuing convergence of video, internet, print, mobile, and other media. Understand how online video works, where and how it's being used on the web, what makes it effective, and what lies ahead.

DURATION/TIME
1 video
21 minutes total running time

Add to Calendar
iCal | Outlook

Course Details

This Crash Course is an On Demand Video.

Click here to preview and read more details.

Related Courses

• How to Start a Blog (Video) – ONLINE

• Publishing: From Print to Digital (Video) – ONLINE

• Making Sense of Social Media (Video) – ONLINE

Tell me when courses like this are scheduled.

View all courses in

How Online Video Is Changing the Internet, Part 1: Overview (Video) –

Instructor Bio

Manoush Zomorodi's Courses

How Online Video Is Changing the Internet, Part 2: Making Your Mark -- and a Healthy Profit (Video) –

How to Write an Arts and Culture Review (Video) –

Writing for the Web: Guidelines for Writing Online (Video) –

Writing for the Web: Is Writing for the Web Different from Print? (Video) –

Writing for the Web: Understanding How Readers Use the Web (Video) –

Manoush Zomorodi is a reporter, anchor, and host. Her stories air on Reuters Television and the BBC, and she presents many of mediabistro.com's on-demand videos. She also specializes in on-camera media training and has coached city officials, authors, and print journalists.

Testimonials

Manoush manages to condense years of field experience into energetic and informative classes. -- Emile Menasche, editor-in-chief, In Tune Monthly

"Manoush is amazing! Her class is so hands on. She really took the time to look at everybody's work and provide individual feedback. I definitely recommend taking one of her classes, if not all of them." -- Alexandra Perakis

"Manoush laid out the principles of a successful interview in ways that allied fears and provided a working model I will rely on in years to come." -- Sharon Glassman

"Manoush is encouraging and frank. This is a powerful mix." -- Emily Alp

"Manoush is a refreshing and engaging instructor. She keeps your attention with her lively, witty presentation, yet she somehow manages to cover all the bases." -- Stan Reaves

"You could tell Manoush brought years of experience to the table. She did a great job of understanding everyone's purpose for being there and catering the course to individual needs." -- Kerry Snow

"Manoush is a superb instructor. Her broad experience combined with her skill as a trainer made every minute of the class valuable." -- Paul Einarsen

"Manoush has the magic touch. With excellent editing skills and a genuine interest in her students'goals and concerns, she shows great enthusiasm from beginning to end. The class was entertaining too!" -- Andreas Fuchs

1/1/3000: How Online Video Is Changing the Internet, Part 2: Making Your Mark -- and a Healthy Profit (Video) - ONLINE - Manoush Zomorodi - 15 mins., $

Sat, 21 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

PRICE
Get access to all Mediabistro on Demand videos for only $19 per month ($15 for ).

SYNOPSIS
Is it possible to make money with online video? Well, some people are doing it. In this Crash Course, you'll learn about the business models that successful amateurs, corporations, and mainstream media use and find out how you can apply them to your site. You'll also discover the six basic rules for creating online videos that work.

DURATION/TIME
1 video
15 minutes total running time

Shot and edited by Resolution Seven

Add to Calendar
iCal | Outlook

Course Details

This Crash Course is an On Demand Video.

Click here to preview and read more details.

Related Courses

• Be A Blog Star, Part 1 (Video) – ONLINE

• How Online Video Is Changing the Internet, Part 1: Overview (Video) – ONLINE

• How to Make a Successful Short Film (Video) – ONLINE

Tell me when courses like this are scheduled.

View all courses in

How Online Video Is Changing the Internet, Part 1: Overview (Video) –

Instructor Bio

Manoush Zomorodi's Courses

How Online Video Is Changing the Internet, Part 2: Making Your Mark -- and a Healthy Profit (Video) –

How to Write an Arts and Culture Review (Video) –

Writing for the Web: Guidelines for Writing Online (Video) –

Writing for the Web: Is Writing for the Web Different from Print? (Video) –

Writing for the Web: Understanding How Readers Use the Web (Video) –

Testimonials

1/1/3000: How to Make a Successful Short Film (Video) - ONLINE - 1 hour 23 min, $

Sat, 21 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

PRICE
Get access to all Mediabistro on Demand videos for only $19 per month ($15 for ).

SYNOPSIS
Four filmmakers who cleaned up on the festival circuit reveal how they made their short films and moved on to write and direct great features.

You'll hear how they solved real-world problems like:

- getting a movie made on a beg-borrow-and-steal budget
- motivating the best people to work for food (really)
- writing when the well is dry
- dealing with feedback from everyone from deep-pocketed producers to well-meaning family
- creating structures that will help you produce work
- establishing a network without going to film school
- figuring out how long your short film should be to get maximum exposure

DATE OF PANEL
December 13, 2007

Add to Calendar
iCal | Outlook

Course Details

This Panel Discussion is an On Demand Video.

Click here to preview and read more details.

• Improve Your Web Life: New Sites, New Uses, New You (Video) – ONLINE

• Sree Sreenivasan: Blogs Every Media Professional Should Know (Video) – ONLINE

Tell me when courses like this are scheduled.

View all courses in

1/1/3000: Online Video: Power to the People (Video) - ONLINE - 1 hour, 11 minutes, $

Sat, 21 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

PRICE
Get access to all Mediabistro on Demand videos for only $19 per month ($15 for ).

SYNOPSIS
In this lively presentation at the Mediabistro Circus 2008, Robert Scoble (Fast Company TV), Jim Louderback (Revision 3), and Dina Kaplan (blip.tv) take on the rapidly expanding and seemingly unruly world of online video.

The question everyone wants to answer is �How do you make money with online video?� Louderback produces high-quality programming with different advertising models. Kaplan takes us through the entertainment industry�s intellectual property struggles and show how her own distribution model works. Robert Scobel�well, he gets excited about a lot of things, and you�ll get excited about them, too. There�s a world-wide talk show going on, and you better be participating.

Watch to find out how online video fits into your site and your strategy.

DURATION/TIME
5 videos
1 hour, 11 minutes total running time

Add to Calendar
iCal | Outlook

Course Details

This Crash Course is an On Demand Video.

Click here to preview and read more details.

• When Life Throws You a Curve: Responding To Industry Changes That Affect Your Career (Video) – ONLINE

• Advertising: The New Creative Agency (Video) – ONLINE

Tell me when courses like this are scheduled.

View all courses in

1/1/3000: Produce Your Own Internet Series (Video) - ONLINE - 1 hour, 50 minutes, $

Sat, 21 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

PRICE
Get access to all Mediabistro on Demand videos for only $19 per month ($15 for ).

SYNOPSIS

Thom Woodley�s web sitcom, The Burg, was one of the first and most critically acclaimed webcoms. In an interview with mediabistro.com�s Carmen Scheidel, the Brooklyn-based filmmaker discusses how he turned his idea for a TV pilot into a successful online series (with zero budget!). He�ll tell you what to do to create and promote your series and how to get the attention of investors, advertisers, and Hollywood.

DURATION/TIME
4 videos
1 hour, 50 minutes total running time

Add to Calendar
iCal | Outlook

Course Details

This Crash Course is an On Demand Video.

Click here to preview and read more details.

• Be A Blog Star, Part 1 (Video) – ONLINE

• Mediabistro Circus: Relevance and Influence: Can Data Bring You Closer to Your Audience? (Video) – ONLINE

Tell me when courses like this are scheduled.

View all courses in