Here are some of the most commonly asked questions we hear … click on a question to see the answer:
- What is PortMedia?
- I would like PortMedia to video an event – how should I proceed?
- Can I join PortMedia?
- Why join PortMedia?
- Sounds like fun, but I have to be some kind of tech genius, right?
- If I join PortMedia, do I need my own equipment?
- Are there any restrictions on the content of my program?
Q: What is PortMedia?
A: PortMedia is a non-profit PEG (Public, Education, Government) Cable Access television facility that cablecasts programming on Newburyport’s Comcast Channels 8 and 9. PortMedia has the only television studio located in Newburyport.
PortMedia is not affiliated with Comcast.
Q: I would like PortMedia to video an event – how should I proceed?
A: Although we’re sure that your event will be very interesting/entertaining/noteworthy, PortMedia is not a video production house. In other words, we don’t have the staff needed to provide this service. However, if you’re a member of PortMedia, you can use our equipment, studio, and editing stations to video your event and produce the show yourself.
Q: Can I join PortMedia?
A: If you live, work, or go to school in Newburyport you may join. Joining is easy. The best way is to come to our office and studio with some evidence of your connection to Newburyport (for example, your driver’s license, a business card, letter from your employer on company stationery showing a Newburyport address, etc.). You’ll fill out a membership form and pay your ridiculously affordable dues (currently, $45 for adults, $25 for students and seniors). That’s all there is to it!
Q: Why join PortMedia?
A: If you have an idea for a television show that would be of interest to people that live in Newburyport, if you are creative and are looking for a medium to express your creativity, if you have a special talent or knowledge you’d like to share with others, if you would like to help local government be more transparent, if you like to work with the techie gear we have, if you’d like to meet some great people and work on a project where you’ll have near total creative and content control. That’s enough reason, don’t you think?
Q: Sounds like fun, but I have to be some kind of tech genius … right?
A: Most of our members have advanced degrees in video production and computer science … only kidding! Actually, many of our members had never seen a television studio before joining PortMedia. Some basic computer skills are helpful, but not required. We provide all of the training you need to operate our cameras, insure that the audio you record will be of a good quality, edit your video, including adding those snazzy graphics you see on TV. We can also help you with your projects so that you get a final product that you’ll be proud to show on our channels.
Q: If I join PortMedia, do I need my own equipment?
A: No you don’t need your own equipment. Of course, if you have equipment you’re free to use it, but it is not required. We have cameras, tripods, and microphones that you may borrow free of charge. We have several editing stations that you may reserve and use during our office hours. We have a real studio and control room that can be used for a variety of programs. Just attend training and they’re all yours to use.
Q: Why join PortMedia?
A: Well, first, you get to use all of our equipment. Second, we’ll teach you how to use it. Third, you can make a television show about nearly anything you want, and it will really be on TV! Fourth, you’ll meet some great people. Fifth … do you really need a fifth reason?
Q: Are there any restrictions on the content of my program?
A: You cannot include any copywritten material, whether it be music, images, or moving images, unless you have permission from the copyright holder. You cannot include obscene material. Adult content that is not obscene may only be shown on our channel between 10pm and 3am. You cannot libel or slander anyone. Most any other content is OK, but you’ll be stating in writing that your program complies with our rules and guidelines that you will receive a copy of when you join.
Our Sponsors
