The Backpack Journalist: Moosehead Lake, Maine


Explore the creation of documentary video and the pristine wilderness of Maine

© Geoff HancockThis workshop is a unique opportunity to explore the world of journalism and the pristine wilderness of Maine.

This course is for nature enthusiasts, outdoor adventurers and conservationists looking to gain experience shooting documentary video in the beautiful and rugged Moosehead Lake region. This awe-inspiring body of water is nestled among scenic mountain ranges and surrounded by vast forested wilderness.

Students will develop story ideas inspired by the rich history and current events of the region. They will be encouraged to think creatively and capture the images you can only find off the beaten path. At the end of the week, students will have a chance to see their project come to life through the editing process and present their stories from The North Woods of Maine.

Students will learn how to plan everything from their story to the logistics of the expedition, troubleshoot and improvise in sometimes difficult conditions and be resourceful in a remote environment.

Other topics that will be covered:

  • Capturing a documentary/news/nature story
  • Camera composition
  • Shot sequencing
  • Working with available light
  • Operating audio recording equipment and creative use of natural sound
  • Shooting interviews
  • Choosing the ideal equipment based on budget and ability to transport
  • Preparing for and editing a story in post-production.

We will talk about how to respect specific wildlife we may encounter while still getting great shots in natural habitats, as well as safety precautions that are essential to a successful outdoor expedition.

Students will acquire the skills necessary to adapt to the environment in which they work and live and practice “leave no trace” outdoor ethics used by all major outdoor conservancy organizations.

Pricing includes tuition, shared rustic accommodations and meals.   S’mores will be served.

Instructors

Geoff Hancock

Geoff Hancock

“I learned this, at least, by my experiment; that if one advances confidently in the direction of his dreams, and endeavors to live the life which he has imagined, he will meet with a success unexpected in common hours.”

—Henry David Thoreau, Walden

Geoff’s professional career began in St. Louis where he worked as Camera Operator, News Photographer and Editor for KPLR – TV. He also spent time as a Camera Operator and Associate Producer in the fast paced world of sports, working for a show airing on St Louis' Fox Sports Midwest.

Geoff’s first documentary project was for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society where he spent nine months following a young man during his struggle with cancer. Soon after this project, Geoff relocated to Springfield, Missouri, where he worked shooting live Springfield Caridinals baseball, and other sporting events throughout the Midwest.

A pivotal event in 2007 changed the path of Geoff’s career and his outlook on life. He spent five months backpacking on the Appalachian Trail between Georgia and Maine. When Geoff hit the Maine State Line, he realized that he had discovered his future home.  Since moving to the beautiful Pine Tree State, he has refocused his career to follow his passion for documentary filmmaking.  His love of nature and the wilderness inspired him to move to Maine where he currently works as a Camera Operator and Editor on documentary films.

Geoff’s work as a Teaching Assistant at Maine Media Workshops earned him high praise from his students and instructors alike; his dedication to helping others realize their creative dreams is infusive, and his enthusiasm for the subject matter – contagious.

Geoff is currently filming a documentary that retraces the expeditions of Henry David Thoreau into the Northern Woods of Maine. Geoff’s attitude toward life and art is reflected in the heart and spirit of Thoureau’s journey.