The Verizon Media Center (VMC) consists of two areas: the iMac editing workstations, and the camera shoot area. The iMac workstations are located on the first floor of the library, and the camera shoot area is located on the second floor, in the Media Room.
Step 1: Decide what you'll need to complete your project.
Will you need video or photography? Or, are you doing audio only? Will you upload your video to the internet, or burn it to a DVD? Do you want to create a podcast? To see a comprehensive list of what's available in the VMC, see the Resources and Training page
Step 2: Learn about the tools you'll use
Visit the Resources and Training page to see what resources and training are available. We have comprehensive training videos and web resources for you to get started. If you'd like, reserve some time with one of the iMac editing computers to explore and experiment before you begin your project.
Step 3: Gather your materials
You'll need to bring the right materials to the VMC while you're working on your project
- If you'll be using the VMC video camera, bring your own Mini DV tape for use in the camera. Allthough the video camera comes supplied with a Mini DV tape, you can't take it with you when you're done, so bring your own tape if you want to keep a copy of your footage.
- Bring storage media to save your project's video, audio, and picture files. Although storage space is available on the iMac computers, we don't recommend storing your project on a public lab computer! Because of the large size of video and multimedia files, the VMC computers will be erased on a regular basis. Some examples of storage devices are:
- An external hard drive (best option for large projects)
- USB flash disk
- Blank CDs or DVDs (best for storing your final production)
- Gather any props, scripts, or digital files you'll use for your project
Step 4: Reserve equipment and computer time
You can reserve time with one of the three iMac editing computers using the Reservations page. Cameras, equipment, and training resources can be checked out from the library circulation desk as you need them. More information on checking out equipment can be found here.
