MCC Communication Students Get Inside Look at Local Production Studio

In March, the Middlesex Community College Communication, Art and Design division participated in the Camera Operator Bootcamp hosted by Red Sky Studios with the Mass Production Coalition (MPC). The day-long experience allowed students to see and hear from professionals who work in various camera roles on productions.

“My friends and I want to collaborate more on film and video projects and this experience was a great way to see what efficient communication looks like and all the pieces involved to make the process as smooth as possible,” said Max Gofstein, an MCC Communication student from Lowell. “It was a lot to take in but was well worth the trip. The amount of people you meet [at these events] is immense and the opportunity to learn from professionals is one you don’t want to miss.”

Gofstein and classmates enjoyed learning about the different roles on set, as well as how to build camera rigs, frame shots, follow actors, and pull focus manually, among other skills. Throughout the day, the students engaged in breakout sessions, hands-on demonstrations, a career panel, and question and answer sessions.

Joining the students were MCC’s Director of Media Production François de Costerd, MCC’s Media Production Coordinator Jeff Caplan and part-time Communication employee – and MCC alumna – Cristina Rivera.

“Students were able to get firsthand experience with cinema equipment that is out of reach for 99 percent of schools,” de Costerd said. “In addition, being able to speak with film professionals directly was very exciting. It allows them to see what ‘being on set’ entails and find out what they like to do. Several of our students found their calling that day.”

As part of the MPC, Middlesex has more access to filmmakers, production companies, creative agencies and studios. MCC students interacted with industry professionals who worked on productions filmed in the area, such as “American Hustle,” “The Holdovers,” “Spirited,” “Defending Jacob” and “Little Women.”

This connection allows for more “experiential learning” opportunities that help students – and MCC’s program – advance.

“As I was leaving the studios, David Hartman – the Director of MPC – remarked to me how great a job we were doing with the program at MCC,” de Costerd said. “These opportunities are great for students to get a sense of the opportunities that exist for them outside of MCC, but there’s also plenty for them here at the college."