DERRY - The cameras were manned. The director was in the control room. And the on-air talent was taking a final read-through of the script.

For the pre-teens and teens taking part in the Youth Media Camp sponsored by Derry Community Television and the Community Alliance for Teen Safety, Wednesday was their big day as they put the finishing touches on their 30-minute video productions.

During the three-day camp at the DCTV studio, 18 youngsters learned all aspects of television production, including audio, lighting, hosting, cameras, producing, directing, graphic design and editing.

“I'm a media freak,” said Caleb Brunelle. “I've been interested in it since I watched my first TV show. I wanted to know how the lights work and how the sets are made.”

This is the second youth media camp, with the initial one two years ago proving popular. For the current camp, DCTV reporter and video producer Kim Haas said participation was capped at 18 kids, working in three teams of six to make the productions more manageable.

“With the groups of six, the kids can get more distinct roles as producers, camera operators and on-air talent, but they still get the opportunity to learn a little bit of everything,” she said.

Most of the participants have expressed an interest in the media in the past, and several are currently volunteers at the cable studio.

“I've been interning at DCTV for the summer, and this has been a good experience to learn,” said Katie Silverman. “It's a lot of fun, and we also get free lunch.”

In the control room, Paul Boyd was going over the final marks for the production of his group's 30-minute show, a satirical newscast.

For Boyd, there was no question that he would volunteer to be the director.

“I like to be in charge and I like to be the leader,” he said. “But this is the first time I've touched any kind of equipment like this.”

Also assisting with the camp were Derry cable coordinator Chris Martin, assistant coordinator Debbie Roy, producer and director Sean Zajac, and retired communications professor and media expert Bob Comenole.

In addition to creating the 30-minute TV production, the groups also created public service announcements.

“Because we're not a commercial station, we are doing the PSAs as breaks,” said Haas. “I think it's interesting that all three groups chose the topic of bullying for their public service announcements.”

aswift@newstote.com