by Anthony Rifilato
These are imaginary sequels, obviously, but the technology being used for the artwork is the real deal and the class uses the same computer programs used in the media industry, mainly Adobe Photoshop. "I wanted to bring this into the class," said Leis, 25. "It fosters creativity."
Originally started in the technology curriculum under the name communication arts, Leis said the name was changed to media production last year in order to reflect how the class has evolved into a modern-day media environment.
Here, students design advertising logos, CD covers, and 3-D animation, among others. Students said that the class not only gives them the opportunity to be creative, but teaches them skills that they can potentially translate into a lucrative career.
"I'm trying to get these kids accustomed with programs being used in the business world," said Leis. "[Adobe Photoshop] is being used in all the advertising agencies."
For students interested in the media arts, room 217A is definitely one of the places to be at Baldwin High School. There are ten computers for a class of 14 students. Many pair off and work side by side, helping each other with their assignments. Leis said that last year, one of his students used the class to design the cover of a skateboard video he had produced and plans to market. "I encourage their creativity," said Leis. "They pump out good work."
For this latest project, Leis was able to get 150 blank DVD cases in order for students to create realistic DVD covers.
"It's one of the more fun classes," said senior Lisa Newman, who was designing a DVD cover for her take on the Hunter S. Thompson novel that was turned into a film starring Johnny Depp.
Newman, who said she is interested in a career in advertising, was designing a cover for "Fear and Loathing in New York City." For her project, she used a photo of a friend who had dressed up as Depp in the movie, with sunglasses and a rimmed fisherman's hat, and scanned the photo onto the computer. Then, by using Photoshop, she added sunglare, the New York City skyline, and distorted the photo in order to resemble the original movie poster.
"I was basically able to do what I want with it [the project]," said Newman, adding that the technology wasn't as daunting as she initially thought. "It's kind of easy to learn."
Also fixated on their computer screen were sophomores Tiffany Grimes and Lee Eitelberg. Grimes was making the cover for "Shrek II," with a little help from Eitelberg, and both said they took the elective because it sounded appealing. "I really liked the way it sounded in the book," he said. "It's my favorite class."
Grimes, an honor student with distinction, said students are able to bounce ideas off each other. "I really learned a lot," said Grimes, whose project was looking so good it was indistinguishable from the real thing.
"Yeah, with my help," joked Eitelberg.
Other students said that the class allows them the freedom to be creative. "It's a good experience," said sophomore Matt Dockery, who paid homage to Leis in his version of "Godzilla," entitled "Godzilla vs. Leisacon," which features an enlarged photo of Leis about to duke it out with the gigantic monster. "You see this stuff on DVD covers and it's easier to do than you would think."
The next phase of the 20-week course will be to use a program called Adobe After Effects, in which students will be able to design animated graphics and video clips. "It's all about putting graphics into motion," said Leis.
Leis also teaches an adult education course at night, called digital imaging, which uses much of the same technology used in his high school class. In that class, adults learn everything from touching up old photos to brushing up on their technology skills to help their careers.
Soon, the high school students will wrap up their imaginary films as the course comes to an end. This is one class that they will miss, they said. "This is basically what I want to do," said Newman. "This class makes me want to do it more."
