Camera operators vying for best shot

While all eyes are on the athletes during a football game, there are several sets of eyes behind the scenes watching for the best scene or play to film to provide video for both fans in the stands and, now, fans at home or far away.

Five juniors and seniors at Pea Ridge High School, all students of the Pea Ridge Manufacturing and Business Academy, are constantly competing to get the best shot and working hard to provide quality video while learning to improve their skills.

Disney Humphrey, William Littrell, Hannah Pederson, Faith Wilson and Norma Mater are talented camera operaators and also are learning how to add graphics and work the tri-caster, a piece of equipment that helps them select which video from which camera to put on the electronic billboard on the south end of the field.

“It’s so much fun — our little competition,” Faith said.

Instructor Mark Laster explained that all during the games, he evaluates the shots and comments on them. Each student is constantly trying to capture the best shot and compete with one another. Laster announces the unofficial winner at the end of the evening.

Littrell, 16, is the son of Angela Littrell. Pedersen, 16, is the daughter of Jim and Leslie Pedersen. Wilson, 16, is the daughter of Cheryl and Kim Wilson. Humphrey, 18, is the

TIMES photograph by Annette Beard Students in the audio-visual class at Pea Ridge Manufacturing and Business Academy work with teacher Mark Laster, center, videotaping athletic events and other special events at the school. Each of the students studied the AV classes offered at Pea...