The North Portland Multi Media Training Center trains individuals to use digital video production and editing equipment and the cable television system as a means of communication and community development. During 2007, the training center’s first year, educational activities focus on training students who want to become trainers at The Center. In the first phase of training, students work as part of a team to develop community media productions. Students learn to tell a story using the materials of television: basic storyboarding and scripting; conducting an interview in the field; learning the fundamentals of field lighting, audio, and camcorder operation; editing and the fundamental principals of journalism. Together they determine production topics, develop a plan, shoot, and edit a complete field segment to be aired on Portland Community TV.

Interested participants who demonstrate an aptitude in video production and exhibit the qualities of a team member and leader may qualify to be trained as lead facilitators in the second phase of training.
Training at The Center provides hands-on experience in an active and engaging teaching environment. Issues are discussed, support is available, and success is achievable.

Session One – Getting Started

Introduction to the North Portland Multimedia Training Center (NPMTC). Teams are determined for the eight week session. As a team students decide what project they will produce.  Students have hands on experience with the cameras as they complete a short exercise and review.  At the end of each session, teams discuss their project status and next steps.

Session Two – Camera Operation & Telling Your Story
Through hands-on camera teaching technique, the students leave session two with a working knowledge of the production camera. The second half of session two includes an ethics in journalism class.

Session Three – Field Audio Recording and Lighting Demo
Students are taught field audio and field lighting. The purpose of various types of microphones is explored and the three point lighting setup technique is taught. The second part of the session is dedicated to practice interviewing and equipment set up. The class then breaks up into project groups and finalizes the plan for the next sessions' shoot in the field.

Session Four – Shooting in the Field
Students shoot an interview in the field, taking turns behind the camera and interviewing subjects. Students meet at and return to NPMTC.

Session Five – Shoot or Log Day
Session five is either a shooting day or a log and capture day, depending on the state of each project. Students will be taught Final Cut Pro editing system using Mac Book Pros. Students take turns editing as the group makes final project decisions.

Session Six – Editing Part I
Session six dives deeper into the Final Cut Pro editing system, including trim clips, audio level adjustments, positioning clips in time line. Assemble a rough cut of the project.

Session Seven – Editing Part II
During session seven students will polish rough cuts, add transitions, search for music, and discuss copyright. Titles are created. Second half of journalism course will be taught.

Session Eight – Project Completion, Screening, and Evaluation
The class discusses the goals of the project and next steps. Students apply final touches, project compression, and the group screens their projects. Students receive certification.