Whether you are dreaming of seeing your name in lights, or just in need of a new hobby, Alkek One has the perfect place for you. The expanded YouStar Studios are open, and bigger and better than ever!
The original YouStar Video Studio 1, featuring a high quality camera, lighting and greenscreen, reopened its DIY recording space. Choose a background image from pre-programmed options or use your own and follow the simple steps to capture your performance, interview, lecture or anything else you can think of. Soon, a second video recording studio will be opening with even more features for you to enjoy.
And now, there’s much more available in the YouStar suite. Two brand new YouStar Audio Studios are soundproof and the perfect place to record your voiceover, a cover of a song or start your own podcast. If you want to make your own music, the YouStar Production Suite features a variety of instruments and beat makers. There’s even a turntable to create your own DJ set. If this all sounds overwhelming, don’t worry. There are QR codes posted with links to quick tutorials for how to use the software.
If you’d rather create in the comfort of your own home, there’s good news. We now have several pieces of production equipment available for checkout at the Alkek One Service Desk, including 4K and 360-degree cameras, ring lights and lavalier microphones. Feel free to ask the YouStar student workers for help picking the right gear for your next production. Once you have your project recorded, you can take Alkek One’s free virtual video or audio editing workshops to learn basic editing techniques and finalize your project. There are several dates for the online workshops available to fit in to your busy schedule. Just make sure you sign up beforehand!
Most importantly, we are making sure that the YouStar Studios are safe to use. Each room has strict capacity guidelines posted on the door, and the spaces are thoroughly cleaned every two hours to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Feel free to drop by the first floor any time Alkek Library is open You can make your reservations using the library’s EMS reservation system.
This article was contributed by Kira Wright, University Libraries YouStar Studios Supervisor.