Broadcast Journalism for Young Artists


Learn the fundamentals of shooting, developing, researching and writing varied types of news stories

This two-week program is designed for high school students between the ages of 14 and 18.

There is a rising demand for multi-skilled journalists on television, radio and the internet. This hands-on workshop will help the next generation of journalists to navigate the evolving landscape of broadcast journalism. Participants will be immersed in the methods of conveying news, material and commentary through a variety of media.

Students learn to develop, research and write stories, learn the fundamentals of shooting, polish interview techniques, and gain basic editing.  Students acquire skills regarding camera operation and other electronic news gathering equipment and learn how to produce different types of news segments including feature packages and breaking news.

Students also participate in discussions on professional and ethical conduct, careers in journalism and methods of finding their ideal job in this challenging and exciting field.

This workshop provides students with a strong introduction to the techniques, fundamental principles, and craft of contemporary broadcast journalism.

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.