Welcome to 9B: Intermediate Video Production

(Above photos: Past BCC 9B Students in Action!)

What's this class all about?

In this class, you will analyze and interpret story concepts and scripts for practical and aesthetic requirements; plan logistics and preproduction documents for more complex video shoots; and further develop your skills using advanced video, lighting and sound production gear, including the Netflix-approved Sony Fx6 camera, interchangeable lenses, tungsten studio lighting, and various professional LED lights.

When, Where and How to attend class:

Class meets Thursdays in "The Studio" - Room 218, at Berkeley City College.

Class hours are: 8:30am-12:15pm, with a break around 10:20am. PLEASE BE ON TIME.

Instructor and contact information

Instructor: Kelly Whalen

The Canvas Inbox is the best way to contact me. Look for the "Inbox" icon on the Canvas menu to the left. I will typically answer your email within 24-48 hours Monday through Friday. I reserve the right to wait until Monday to reply to messages sent over the weekend ;-)

Email address: kwhalen@peralta.edu

Come to my office hours Thursdays 12:30 - 1:30pm or email me: kwhalen@peralta.edu

By default, all communication from me goes to your peralta.edu student email account. If you do not feel comfortable using it, please make sure your Peralta email forwards to your regular email inbox or change your email preferences in your Student Center here: https://sa.peralta.edu/

If you have a question or comment for me and you think it will be beneficial for your classmates, post your question in "Ask The Teacher" Discussion Forum. Unlike the email communication mentioned above, all students in the group will see your questions and teachers' answers.

If we haven't worked together before, you are welcome to use my first name: “Kelly." If you are uncomfortable with that, then "Professor" or Ms. Whalen is fine too. Also, please help me understand how to pronounce your preferred name and record it in Name Couch.

What Will Help You Succeed in This Class

A Problem-Solving Attitude: In the professional world of filmmaking, you face unexpected challenges -- A LOT. A camera or piece of equipment malfunctions. The weather interrupts production plans. You run out of time. To stay in the game, it's important to show up prepared to problem-solve. As you learn new concepts and skills and put them into practice, try to wear your problem solving hat and seek creative and technical solutions whenever you face challenges.

Strong Communication and Engagement: Communicate with me if you run into any stumbling blocks or challenges that impact your ability to complete your work. I want you succeed and get a lot from this class. I need to know if something is tripping you up.

Also rely on your classmates. "Student Lounge" Discussion forum: this is the group area open for your introductions and questions to your fellow-students. Throughout the semester, you can post questions about the class topics here where your fellow students might be able to help you. There's a range of talent here! Questions posted here are intended to be viewed and answered by your peers and not by your instructor.

I'll also use CANVAS to post videos and reading materials. Here you will will find and submit assignments, and post in discussion forums for help, inspiration, and conversation. For Canvas and technical support -- click on the Help icon on the left-side Canvas menu. Additionally, here's a link for Canvas Chat Support.

Showing Up: Attend EVERY lecture and lab on time, ready to engage and learn with one another. Let's strive to make the class environment safe and comfortable for everyone. Here we will be working on the issues that connect us as humans, not divide. Please do not use offensive or belittling language, be generous in spirit (don't make assumptions), and always respect your classmates.