Klein Media Teaching Video Production to Kids

A few weeks ago, I had the privilege of speaking to a group of 7th and 8th graders at Faribault Lutheran School (FLS) in Faribault, Minnesota. I spoke to them about how to do basic video production. With COVID-19 and lockdowns still affecting everyone, I felt it was important to share my knowledge about video with the increased odds of kids having to learn remotely. Joyce Kromminga (or Mrs. K) was my middle school teacher when I went to FLS. In early September, I got a call from Joyce and she was insistent that I share my expertise on video production with her students. I’ve always wanted to teach a basic video production course so this was a perfect opportunity to try it out!

I thought it’d be best to start with a crash course in video production since there was a chance I’d only have one opportunity to give an in-person presentation before the school closed down again due to COVID. I wanted the students and staff to at least have some basic tools to get started in case I wouldn’t make it back to teach more lessons. 

So with a face shield on, I gave my presentation on how to make a video from start to finish. I went over planning, writing, shooting, editing, and uploading. I also showed the class some gear and software that is available to them at little to no cost. I wanted my presentation to include career opportunities in the video production field as well, so I shared how people can get into the field through filming weddings or covering live sports broadcasts. It was a lot of information to give the kids in one session, but it was something for them to start with as I could potentially give more lessons down the road.

All in all, I’m grateful for this opportunity to teach a younger generation of potential filmmakers. Even without the impact of COVID, there would still be a growing demand for video content. Additionally, businesses are needing more video content to push out to their followers and clients, so it is valuable for people who work in other fields to understand the basic concepts of filmmaking. Knowing at least a little bit about creating a video can put these students a step above the rest. And who knows, maybe something ‘clicked’ with one of those kids and they want to make videos for a living, like me.