Click here for the VideoBasics Course Syllabus in PDF format
Where do you get a camcorder and a tripod for this course?

You have three options:

  • Use your own camcorder and Tripod
    • You may use your own camcorder. If it records onto mini-DV videotape, your set.
    • If you have something other than a mini-DV format camcorder (like VHS, VHS-C, 8MM, Hi8mm, Internal Hard Drive, etc.) you can still use it. But, you must copy the video from your tape to a mini-DV tape (provided by the instructor). You can copy your tape to a mini-DV tape at the Student Multimedia Studio (SMS) on the 1st floor of the library as long as you take your camcorder and any cables needed to connect it to another recorder (AV cables) to the SMS.

  • Borrow a "free" mini-DV camcorder and tripod from Audio Visual Services.
    • These are free for students but there are limited supplies so you need to reserve them in advance. You should try to pick a day and time that you will be borrowing the camcorder every week for the 3 weeks you need it for this course and reserve those days/times right away. You can reserve A CAMCORDER AND A TRIPOD by calling 330-672-3456.
    • Camcorders can be picked up at the Customer Service Counter in the AVS Dept. on the 3rd floor of the Library. Ask about the checkout policies and make sure you return borrowed equipment on time because there are fines for late returns and they increase "hourly" after the due date/time.

  • Pay $25 to use a JMC camcorder and tripod.
    • First, you need to go get a "ticket" from the JMC Equipment Checkout on the first floor of Franklin Hall for a mini-DV camcorder.  Tell the JMC Equipment Checkout staff that you are in the Videography Basics course. 
    • Secondly, take the "ticket" to the Bursar's Office and pay the bill. The Bursar will give you a record of payment.
    • Then, take the record of payment back to the JMC Equipment Checkout and you will be put on the list of students who can check-out camcorders.
    • You must reserve the times you want to borrow a camcorder from JMC. You are allowed 2 "blocks" of time for borrowing a camcorder per week. There are morning, afternoon and overnight / weekend blocks. Call: 330-672-2468 for more information.