Students, with instructors approval, are welcome to use this studio for interviews, presentation of papers, and various other tapings and functions.
How we built it:
Using donated equipment racks as back support, we purchased custom cut plywood to size by Benjamin Brothers, brushed aluminum trim, carpet from Home Depot, black velvet and batting from Fabric Mall in Bergenfield. The book shelves came some years back donated by a Tenafly resident. Mounted vertically on the plywood are LG 43″ monitors (purchased from Micro Center, Paterson) individually connected to a computer with 4 video cards with free software enabling our using a high-resolution photo as a “view” of our choice. Adjustable blinds soften the changeable background. Many thanks to Mark Fleming for assistance in the design, construction, and wiring of the studio to the control room.
Efficient use of legacy equipment:
We will extend the life of 3 Sony HVR-Z1U HD cameras purchased in 2006 and use camera pedestals and teleprompters donated by NYC broadcasting companies. We look forward to placing this facility into regular use for a variety of programs.
A bit of history:
About ten years ago, one of our graduates was interning at MSNBC. He alerted us of MSNBCs intention to get rid of some set pieces. Upon picking up the desk below, we were told in passing it once was used on the Phil Donahue set. Here you see the desk being used by a PD taping with Marc Gold, Jessica Fox and Brian Ross . . .
. . . some years later through posted video we confirmed our desk in fact once belonged to Phil Donahue . . .
. . . using the Donahue set as a guide, we built this set in our back room connected to our library.