CMS 4410 Study Guide: Whittaker

Whittaker's fifteen guidelines for effective composition are included in modules 22-25.

Module 22 Composition: Setting the Scene

This module introduces the concept and practices of good composition.

Module 23 Elements of Composition

1. Clearly establish your objectives.
2. Strive for a feeling of unity.
3. Compose around a single center of interest.
4. Observe proper subject placement.

Module 24 Composition 2

5. Maintain tonal balance.
6. Balance mass.
7. Create a pattern of meaning.
8. Make use of lines.
9. Frame the central subject matter.
10. Make use of visual perspective.

Module 25 Composition 3

11. Convey meaning through colors and tones.
12. Avoid mergers.
13. Control the prime number of objects.
14. Balance complexity and order.
15. Utilize the meaning suggested in the direction of movement.

Modules 63-1, 63-2, 64, 68, 69-1, 69-2, and 70 offer basic information and advice about careers in broadcast and video production. The lists below indicate the information for which you are responsible.

Module 63-1 News and Documentaries 1

• Where the public gets its information.
• Differences between ENG, DNG, and EFP.
• The influence of broadcast news.
• Handling controversial subject matter.

Module 63-2 News and Documentaries 2

• ENG personnel.
• Video Journalists (VJ's).
• Reporter's and news producer's checklists.

Module 64 News and Documentaries 3

• Newsworthiness.
• News sources.
• On-location interviews.

Module 68 Non-broadcast TV

• Institutional video.
• Avocational video.

Module 69-1 Careers, Getting a Job 1

• Factors that predict career success.
• On-camera vs. behind-the-camera careers.
• College degrees and majors.
• Broadcast schools.
• Salaries.

Module 69-2 Careers, Getting a Job 2

• Internships.
• Résumés and cover letters.
• Résumé reels.
• "Knockout Factors."

Module 70 A Final Word

• "Paying" for this book.