Beginning Videography for Science Professionals

Duration: 9 am - 5 pm | Cost: $50 (includes boxed lunch) 
Lead Convener:  Karen McKee

Videography skills will become increasingly important for the scientist of the future to keep pace with the rapid changes in communication technology and electronic publishing. As public demand for more accessible and engaging science information increases and as competition for science jobs, research funding, and space in journals becomes more intense, those with multimedia skills such as videography will be at a distinct advantage. 21st century consumers of scientific information, both technical and non-technical, will expect media-rich content, and science professionals must be prepared to provide it. 

This 1-day workshop is designed to teach science professionals and students the basics of planning, shooting, editing, and publishing an effective and professional science video. No prior knowledge of video-making is required. We will cover equipment and software as well as how to design a compelling message. We will also discuss publishing and how to go about getting your video online. Through hands – on exercises, you will develop a brief video to convey information about your research, to develop outreach materials, or to meet some other purpose – with the goal of creating a useable, information product.

To facilitate learning and encourage continued use of video after the workshop, participants will use their own mobile devices (smartphones, tablets) to practice filming and editing. Participants need to be familiar with the camera function on their mobile device and have downloaded a movie-editing app (appropriate to their device) prior to the workshop (for example: iMovie for iOS or KineMaster for Android). Movie editing will be taught using iMovie for iOS, but the basic principles will apply to other devices and applications. Participants lacking a mobile device may bring a camera/camcorder and laptop (for movie editing) but must be familiar with their equipment and software and know how to transfer video files in the correct format.