1st stage Digital Filmmaking

Course Content of the Digital Film Making & Animation - 1st stage

Introduction to Computing and Media

This unit familiarizes students with the versatility and diversity of multimedia applications linked to contemporary personal computing from both consumer and professional perspectives.

Digital Video Basics

This section covers basic use of DV and HD camera equipment, how to maintain location recording equipment, professional terminology and signal flow. Students also learn about the different professional video formats.

Editing Techniques

This section covers rudimentary theory and the practical application of common non-linear editors such as Final Cut Pro. Students learn how to capture footage from analogue and digital sources and perform basic editing techniques. Students also learn how to optimise captured footage and format it for use with different types of file compression.

Camera, audio and light Operation

Students learn how to operate professional digital video cameras, light systems, stabilising equipment and audio recording equipment for remote location recordings. Students learn framing techniques, as well as the theory behind visual expression; weight, close/distant framing and object positioning in relation to focused subject matter.

Project Planning and Management

This section teaches students how to plan complex digital film projects. Students learn how to develop scripts, create detailed storyboards, budget projects both logistically and financially and maximise efficiency on location. Students learn how to cast and direct actors, supervise crew members and oversee a project to completion.

Digital Audio

Using professional audio recording equipment, students learn how to properly set-up microphones and digital recorders on film sets, as well as how to capture and edit audio for post production. Students learn how to use ProTools audio editors to create compelling soundtracks for their visual productions.

Advanced Editing and Lighting

Students are trained to work with uncompressed video on high-end editing workstations such as Avid or Final Cut Pro. Students also learn different lighting techniques such as hard and soft, keying, fill and back lighting. Theory classes offer students insight into the use of lighting to help enhance the style of their digital film projects.

Special FX, Compositing and 3D Graphics

This section of the course focuses on the process of combining live action footage with computer generated content to form a seamless blend of exciting and professional visual expression. Students learn tricks and techniques using industry standard software applications such as Shake, Combustion and After Effects. Students also learn how to create 3D content that can be composited with live action footage.

DVD Authoring and Delivery Formats

Students learn how to create interactive DVDs for project delivery and create menu systems using DVD Studio Pro and Adobe Photoshop. Students will also learn how to deliver finished projects in professional tape formats and to optimise files for broadband Internet delivery.

Industry Issues

Throughout the duration of the course, students will have lectures from industry professionals who will discuss relevant issues in the television and film industries. This section also covers issues pertaining to copyright laws, show reel preparation, CV preparation and job interviewing techniques.

Note: The sections outlined above do not exist as separate modules within the course and do not necessarily reflect the order in which these subjects are taught.

Assessment method

Practical:

• students submit a number of prescribed practical exercises throughout the course
• students undertake a substantial film project, within the guidelines set by the college
• students sit a final practical 'in-studio' examination
• students submit a final practical showreel presentation

Theoretical:

• students sit theoretical progress examination at regular intervals over the duration of the course
• students submit a written diploma assignment on a subject of the student's choice (subjecs must be approved by SAE Academic Staff)
• students sit a final theory examination

who is this course for?

The Digital film Making programme is for anyone who wants to professionally realise their creative vision and expression using the medium of digital film. This course offers practical training using professional equipment and technology supported by relevant theoretical background knowledge.

This course is ideal for candidates who:

• pursue an occupation in the field of professional film production or broadcast
• artists who wish to produce their own short movies
• want to start their own business or company related to film production (commercials, corporate films, documentaries)