Stronger Skatepark
Produced by Ed Hanson
Videography by David Ainsworth, Jenni Denekas, Ed Hanson
Coached by David Larson
ABOUT
A core experience for master’s students at the University of Oregon School of Journalism and Communication is the Story Arc Cinematic Journalism Workshop, held every two years in Portland (Covid notwithstanding). Professionals in documentary filmmaking, multimedia journalism, video production, and other relevant fields serve as coaches for small teams in this highly collaborative endeavor. Stories typically highlight “individuals and organizations who are working to make the world around them a better place” (About Us).
In June 2022 I was teamed with Ed Hanson (MMJ alum) and David Ainsworth (J alum), and coached by David Larson of Early Light Media. Together we covered the story of Stronger Skatepark, an intentionally inclusive space for skaters of all ages and abilities created by AJ Waters (he/they) in Milwaukie, Oregon.
PROCESS
Each Story Arc team was assigned a local business or organization and given a C300 and C70 for the duration of the workshop. We took it from there, filming an all-day skate camp for kids for two days and interviewing AJ Waters (he/they), the founder, owner, and operator of Stronger Skatepark.
I took point on interviewing AJ, researching their business, formulating interview questions, building a rapport with them over our time on-site, and conducting the interview with them. We connected well and had a lively, far-ranging conversation.
My teammates did the heavy lifting on filming the interview and the skate camp, although I did contribute some videography with the C70 and C300. I especially benefitted from the opportunity to practice shooting with a telephoto lens and filming fast subjects. Previously, I had filmed relatively stationary things like an orchard, murals, and many interviews!
I helped to build the foundation of the script, writing what became the first half of the video. Ed Hanson took it and ran with it, building the amazing final product. David Larson also provided great support as our coach. Ultimately, this was a great experience working in a team with a fast-paced topic and in a fast-paced workshop.