The learning cliff

Shaver discovers the wonders of the Avid title editor.

Not a day goes by that I don't thank the heavens I've already climbed the Avid learning curve.  I feel for those around me that struggle, and try to help whenever I can.  The military teaches at a much faster pace than high school or college.

It can be a stressful job, especially for servicemembers that just randomly picked it, instead of gunning hard to get in.

Sergeant Dea, left, and Sergeant First Class Medina explain microphone and mixer setup.

We've moved past focusing and framing into the realm of sound.  When used properly, good sound can add punch to a production.  Used improperly, it can destroy it.  Imagine an outdoor interview when instead of the subject's voice, all you hear is wind.  Not good.

Students are presented with a daunting array of wires.  Green takes a photo to help with setup later.

After a demonstration, we're cut loose to try it for ourselves.  This involves a lot of trial and error, but it's the best way to learn.  The instructors are always close by if we have questions.

Youmans, whose good nature and strong work ethic are bottomless, studies his script under red mood lights.

My group had a little faster microphone setup time, since I'd seen all the wires before in college and 'A' school.  Our task was to reenact a scene from Silence of the Lambs.   

The red light makes it scaaaaary.

Mendoza chats it up with her fellow Soldiers during a quick break from shooting.

There are many places for us to sit and relax on breaks or after the day's done.  They are all well used. In the military, you never pass up a chance to rest. :)