Workshops

Straight from MacWorld! Digital Photo Workshop: Shoot & Edit Like a Pro, Part 1 - BEG

No matter which camera you own, this informative and entertaining two-part class will teach you how to achieve better shots in-camera, plus what to do with them afterwards. In the first part you’ll learn the basics of camera operation and handling, which setting to use when, the secret to visually pleasing composition, and tips for getting the photos out of your camera and into your computer. Camera and laptop are not required.

Straight from MacWorld! Digital Photo Workshop: Shoot & Edit Like a Pro, Part 2 - BEG

This session is devoted to editing your images with the affordable and user-friendly, Photoshop Elements. You’ll learn basic editing skills like cropping, color correction, how to fix red-eye, and sharpening. Glean the secrets to creating gorgeous grayscales, color tints, partial color effects, creative frames, and more! Last but not least, you’ll learn how to print perfectly-sized borderless images each and every time. Laptops not required.

Graphic Secrets for Presenters – BEG

“An image is worth a thousand words,” the saying goes. If that’s true, why are you still using so much text in your slides? In this session you’ll learn how to communicate through imagery in order to create visually pleasing presentations. Discover where to get some of the most beautiful (and affordable!) royalty-free images you’ve ever seen. Glean the truth about resolution and understand how to resize images from your digital camera–and stock companies–appropriately without losing quality. Using the affordable cross-platform Adobe Photoshop Elements, you’ll learn how to knock out backgrounds, fade one image into another, export transparent images, change file formats, and more. Finally, you’ll be able to turn the images you have into the images you need! Laptops not required.

Intro to Photoshop BEG

In this beginner session, get a general overview of Photoshop and learn the tools you’ll use the most. Finally understand the mystery behind resolution and resizing images for print and web use. Learn a few quick tips to improve any photo, such as simple transformations to straighten and crop images. If you’ve never used Photoshop before and want to try, this is the class for you. (You do not have to have a computer or Photoshop software for this workshop)

Photoshop … the Next Step INT

You know the basics of Photoshop, you’re familiar with most of the tools and are switching between layers in your sleep, so now what? We’ll show how adjustment layers and layer masks can increase productivity and improve photographs. Learn the correct way to remove objects and merge photographs. Discover some editing tips of the pros and learn how to think outside the box. (You do not have to have a computer or Photoshop software for this workshop.)

Becoming Proficient on my PC! BEG

Beginner: Understanding the basics of computers. Learn the basics of getting around on your computer, including copy and paste concepts, shortcuts, data/file management. Customize your desktop to suit your needs. (You do not need to have a computer for this workshop.)

Intermediate: Learn advanced features and functions that will help you work more efficiently on your PC with Office applications. Tips and tricks in Outlook & Express/ as well as Word, Excel and Internet surfing. (You do not need to have a computer for this workshop.)

PC Maintenance and Troubleshooting a/k/a Be your own Techie! BEG/INT

Intermediate: Basic tasks to ensure your PC is safe and to prevent problems. Do you have a back up plan in place? What is RAM and do you have enough? Safely install new software and/or updates. Basic troubleshooting and what to try before calling tech support. (You do not need to have a computer for this workshop.)

Advanced: What to look for and change if your machine is running slowly, including how to clean up your machine of unneeded software and files. What to do if you think you have you have a virus. Advanced troubleshooting and what to try before calling tech support. (You do not need to have a computer for this workshop.)

iGoogle – Do You? BEG

If you’re like most people, you use Google’s products several times a day to search for information or check email. Most people don’t know, however, how many useful tools Google has to make research and time management much easier. This workshop is designed to showcase a few of the products Google offers that may be worth trying for personal and business use. (You do not need to have a computer for this workshop, but you are welcome to bring one.)

Google II: The Sequel – Now that You Google, Let’s Measure it! INT

Now that you have a basic understanding of Google we are now going to tackle some of the other wonderful applications Google offers, such as Advanced Search, Google Maps, Google Analytics and other tools Google uses to measure just how well websites measure up. Prerequisite: Basic understanding of Google or having taken the workshop “iGoogle – Do You?”

So you want to build a website?

Introduction to HTML & Dreamweaver BEG

In this beginner session topics covered will be securing a domain and hosting account, transferring your files to the host server with FTP, basic HTML and the basic Dreamweaver user screens and tool menus. (You do not need to have a computer for this workshop, but are welcome to bring one.)

Dreamweaver Design, Layouts, and Styles oh my! INT

Now the fun begins! Discover all the best practices for design and layout of web pages and the more in-depth options for interactive content -embed video, basic contact forms, Google Maps and photo galleries. Also in this workshop an overview of Dreamweaver’s preset layouts and an introduction to cascading stylesheets. (You do not need to have a computer for this workshop, but are welcome to bring one.)

Dreamweaver Crazy Cool Extensions and Widgets ADV

This workshop is designed for the intermediate/advanced user who wants to take website design to the next level. Discover Behaviors, Spry Widgets, Server side commands and animation. Note: Software and laptop not required, though if you have Dreamweaver CS3/4 and laptop feel free to bring to class. Adobe does have free 30 day trials of Dreamweaver to Download Here

Intro to InDesign BEG

If you’re sick of creating everything in Photoshop or Publisher and want to learn a better way, come see what all the fuss is about with InDesign. Learn how to create custom pages, add text and import graphics to create flyers, stationary and newsletters. Print or create PDF documents from your files to send to customers or printers. (You do not need to have a computer or InDesign software for this class.)

InDesign … Beyond the Basics INT

If you’ve been working with InDesign, Quark or PageMaker, we’ll have a quick overview then get into the good stuff! You’ll learn how to increase productivity with styles, add flare to graphics and type, import excel files and create tables. We’ll also show examples of how InDesign is used with the Adobe Creative Suite. (You do not need to have a computer or InDesign software for this class.)

Intro to your Mac – Getting Started – BEG

So you bought a Mac and want to know how to use it, or you have always wondered how a MAc works and what is the difference between Pc and Mac. This workshop is perfect for you. It will cover the basics of a Mac, the difference between PC and Mac, some basic information to get started and provide you with a basic understanding of using a Mac. (Laptop not required, but you are welcome to bring your Mac laptop.)

Mac: Beyond the Basics – Applications and More – INT

Now that you know the basics, let’s look at some of the applications. In this class we will review the applications consistent with Mac’s iWork and focusing on Keynote, Pages, Numbers, iTunes and more. Prerequisite: Basic knowledge of Mac, or having taken the “Intro to your Mac – Getting Started” workshop. Laptop not required, but you are welcome to bring your Mac laptop.)

Video Basics BEG

Basic info on camera, audio, minimum editing equipment, what to look for in a camera, what are the important features. Video basics: framing & basic composition. Length of video, timing, editing basics. (You do not need a laptop or video camera for this workshop.)

So You Want to be on YouTube!?! INT

The How’s & why’s to using video on the web. Video for your business, video as a marketing tool, how to compose you
r video, how to prepare your videos for youtube – other options and why

Wordpress – It’s more than just a Blog INT

In this class you will learn all about Wordpress basics, themes, add-ons, using Wordpress for as your CMS website.

Beginning Social Media BEG

Everyone’s talking these days about social media. Some even say, “If you’re not on a social network, then you’re not online.” This workshop gives an overview of recent statistics that reflect demographics, usage, and trends. We’ll go over the most popular platforms today, who’s using them, and what they’re using them for. In addition, we’ll discuss some of the many reasons why you should begin using social media and how to get started. No laptop or prerequisite required.

Twitter for Business! INT-ADV

Today, many web enthusiasts are all atwitter about Twitter. This popular microblogging platform has taken the Internet world by storm. What started out as a simple site that asked users the question, “What are you doing?” has become an overnight business phenomenon. Learn about the various uses of Twitter and how it’s being used as a powerful marketing channel and customer support tool. See what companies are making great case studies and what best practices you can execute to help your Twitter use. Prerequisite: Recommended that attendees have already created a Twitter account and have a basic understanding of its features.

Getting Hired in a Web 2.0 World – INT -ADV

So you’re on a different social networks and have a basic understanding of how to use the tools. Now what? Let’s start thinking bout creating a personal brand for yourself that will help you stand out in today’s competitive job market. Learn how to use social media to make meaningful professional connections, land job interviews, and put your best foot forward. No laptop required. Prerequisite: Beginner Social Media.

The Power of LinkedIn for your Business or Career – BEG

What’s the Power of LinkedIn as a business owner and for your career? In this workshop, you will understand the value of using LinkedIn, learn how to create an effective profile page, learn to build your connections, and learn how to grow your reputation using groups. No laptop required.

Facebook: The Ultimate Personal Networking Tool – BEG

Everyone wants to stay in touch with friends in family in this mobile times. This workshop will focus on the personal/non-business side of Facebook to accomplish those goals. Understand the value of using Facebook, learn how to create an effective profile page, learn to build your connections and understand privacy controls. No laptop necessary.

The Power of Facebook for Business – BEG

If you have a business or non-profit, or organization you want to promote as well as connect with others who may share similar interests, Facebook is a great tool for accomplishing these goals. In this workshop you will understand the value of using Facebook for business, know how to create an effective profile page, learn how to build your connections, and learn how to grow your reputation using groups. No laptop necessary.

Email Marketing Basics – BEG/INT

Email Marketing is a very effective way to grow your business or organization, market your business to past clients and create great measurability with the right tools. Learn all the rules you need to create effective campaigns, keep inside the law with SPAM rules, build your lists and learn about the many tools available. No laptop required.

QuickBooks- BEG

Learn how to manage essential financial tasks using Simple Start or QuickBooks Pro in a live computer lab with a practice company. Accounting
101, what is the Chart of Accounts, how to write an Income Statement, Balance Sheet. See how QuickBooks can make managing your business easier.
(You do not need a computer or QuickBooks software on your laptop for this class.)

Intermediate QuickBooks – INT

Anyone who has taken the basic class, or if you have an understanding of QuickBooks should take this class. A hands-on lesson practicing how to
create, modify and benefit from the many Reports QuickBooks offers for analyzing your financial data. (You do not need a computer or QuickBooks software on your laptop for this class.)

Get your Google on: Search Engine Optimization for Beginners – BEG

Ever wonder why your company’s website doesn’t come up highly on Google searches? This class will help demystify Google and how it ranks websites, and will teach you basic techniques to optimize your company’s website to come up better in search engines. Even if you don’t do the updating on your website, you can communicate what you learn to your web developer. No laptop required

Getting traffic to your website: Website Marketing for Beginners – BEG

There are many easy ways to build traffic to your website, including email marketing, paid links, paid search, social media, and “offline” sources. Some are free, some cost money. This class will help you figure out a simple marketing plan to build traffic your website, which builds your business. No laptop required.

The ABC’s of Blogs – BEG

There are so many parts to a blog – and they all work together to make your internet space a success. So, if these words sound like Chinese: headers, tags, categories, widgets, plugins, links and more – then this workshop is for you! We’ll define them and discover how to use them on your blog. Beginner Level, laptop NOT needed.

Setting up your Free Blog – BEG

This workshop will walk you through setting up a free and easy blog on two most popular blog software platforms: Wordpress and Blogger. We’ll also discuss the pros and cons of each choice. And talk about the benefits of paying for hosting and setting up your own, independent blog space. Beginner Level, laptop NOT needed.

Blogging for business (without sounding like a used car salesman) – BEG/INT

How can a blog help your business authentically? We’ll explore ways to use a blog to build a mailing list and a subscriber list, create and grow real client relationships, sell products and services, advertise, promote yourself, connect with other business partners and establish yourself as an expert in your field. Appropriate for Beginner & Intermediate Levels., laptop NOT needed.

Blog writing. Yes! It is different than other writing! - BEG/INT

Yes! It is different than other writing! This workshop will cover voice, audience, purpose, strategy, content, length and formatting for blog writing. We’ll explore the ins and outs of different kinds of blogs – depending on who’s in the workshop. Appropriate for Beginner & Intermediate Levels. Laptop NOT needed.

The importance of using Social Media to drive traffic to your website – BEG

First you needed a website, then a blog, now you’ve also got to be active in social media (Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, Squidoo)…find out what the buzz is all about and how it will help your business. Beginner Level. Laptop NOT needed.

Twitter! And why it will change your world and your business – BEG/INT

Twitter is one of the most influential social networks today – with over 5 million users and growing at a rate of 5-10,000 per day. This workshop will help you set up a profile and teach you how to use it effectively as a marketing tool. Appropriate for Beginner & Intermediate Levels. Laptop optional.

Podcasting for Beginners – BEG

If you’ve ever wondered about podcasting, then this session is for you. Join Lesa Snider King, co-host of the popular Internet radio show Your Mac Life, to get the scoop on what a podcast really is, who listens to them, how you can make one yourself, and how to get folks to listen to it once you do. Enjoy a sneak peek of a few “cream of the crop” podcasts and learn their secrets to success! Laptops not required.

Geek Girl Camp