First Day of DP Video

The new class of DP Video students were on time and ready to start the program. We started off by reviewing the contract as a group which they all signed. The first part of the class consisted of paperwork and signing them up for gmail accounts. We decided that they will take their break during the first 15 minutes of class and work straight through until 7pm. Krystal suggested this alternative because it worked well last year. Once we got that out of the way we dove right into introductions. They worked in pairs interviewing eachother and then introducing their partner to the class. We have a good mix of students from different high schools.

Krystal showed her first film that she created in the DP Video program

OVER TIME and I showed my first film, FABRICATION. We showed our personal films as a way to introduce ourselves and also as an example of the style of films they will create during the first semester. We saw INCOMMUNICADO by Rosie Byers, a DP Video graduate. We discussed Rosie's story and aesthetic choices. There was quite a reaction to the strong emotions expressed in the piece.

I introduced them to the beginnings moving images by bringing in my film projector and projecting an 8mm, black and white, home movie reel from Mexico City (30s 40s). We talked about the difference between film + video and they got to see it firsthand. Students needed clarification that the film was not made for public entertainment, but instead a family portrait for home use similar to a family photo album.

Krystal and I did most of the talking with some participation from the students. They were a bit quiet on their first day of class. This will probably change as we develop rapport with eachother.

They will bring a couple of story ideas for their project on Wednesday so we can begin brainstorming. Felice will also be joining us around 6pm to get them started on their BAVC producer profiles.