Workshop: Self-Taping for Success

Amanda Melby, left, records member Francesca Jarvis at the May 21 conservatory workshop.

When the SAG-AFTRA group gets in the “workshop” mode and sends out the invites, we get a full house! Such was the outcome on May 21 at 12:30 p.m. at Amanda Melby’s Verve Studios. This informative and highly technical workshop arranged and hosted by our very own Margie Ghigo had us all on high-power brain waves (nothing like learning lines), during the first eight segments of the class, leaving some of us with fizzled cranial connections as Amanda effortlessly explained the post-production phase.  

Amanda’s teaching style was easy to follow and understand. She took us through location, lighting, sound, slating, framing — and what to do with all of that in post-production. Amanda then chose volunteer Francesca Jarvis to help with a demonstration. Francesca’s read was outstanding, reminding us all again why we look up to her!    

When we get our incentives back here in Arizona, we may all have to utilize these lessons to self-tape on our phones, tablets and cameras. Those of us who need to “up” our technical know-how should begin now. We will need to be ready when our state returns to being a haven for our industry. 

Many of our talent already know how this works and are busy using it and getting roles right now. Thanks to all who attended this workshop. We will keep them coming so we can all learn more about the new era of our industry.  

This item was originally featured in the July 2016 local newsletter.