New equipment at Lynn CAM allows locals to learn how to edit filmwork

LYNN – Amateur filmmakers and aspiring media moguls now have the opportunity to create their own works of art at Lynn CAM TV with the help of new, state-of-the-art equipment.Executive Director of the non-profit media station Ken Kinna said four editing computers, which arrived in November at the Tremont Street studio, have been a hit with locals looking to learn how to edit.”We got them up and going quickly and there have been lots of kids learning Final Cut Pro ever since,” he said. “After they become members and train with us, they are basically set free to create whatever they want.”The two PCs are fully equipped with Adobe Creative Suite 3 Production Premium, and the two iMacs have Final Cut Studio 2 and iMovie for the public to utilize.For those who don’t want to jump into the world of high tech editing just yet and would prefer to take a slower approach, Kinna said there is also a program called Let’s Edit 2.Joseph Leblanc, a local resident who trained on the editing program, has created his own wrestling show that airs regularly on Lynn CAM.The show features arm wrestling competitions, wrestling skits with his friends and other sketches he has been creating the past year.”It’s so easy, anyone can learn on it,” he said. “Eventually I want to learn how to edit on an iMac.”Aside from the latest computer programs, Kinna said members could learn how to direct their own local show by using the Broadcast Pix Switcher.The equipment allows the user to create a show by simply pushing buttons to insert graphics, clips, pictures, switch cameras and so on.Studio production courses are offered for $75 and consist of a 2-hour a week class for six weeks. Sound mixing, camera operation, computer generated graphics and basic information is covered in the program.Kinna said new members are required to take a free one-hour overview of the station, to understand its rules and how to get involved.A field production class is also available as an introductory course in digital camera use and editing, which is required to take out and use one of the cameras. The cost is $75.”You can be young or old to take part in these programs,” Kinna quipped. “We’re working on having a staff member on site at all times so students can ask a question if they need to and walk them through step by step.”Lynn CAM staff member Dave Riley, who trains students on Tuesdays from 6-8 p.m., works alongside Kinna, staff member Pedro Diaz Jr., and various interns in the editing studio.Swampscott resident Mark Pothier, who is learning how to edit on one of the iMacs with Riley, said he is thrilled to have the opportunity.”I’m new to final cut and I’m really glad that Lynn CAM was able to get this new software,” he said.For more information or to sign up for a class contact the station at 781-596-9641 or send an email to: [email protected]