This course presents the basic concepts, techniques, and processes of filmmaking, including story boarding, shooting, and computer editing. Narrative/dramatic, documentary, and experimental genres will be discussed and the students will participate in directing and producing a short film. Final Cut Pro and Adobe CS 4 software will be used on a Macintosh OSX operating system. Knowledge of the operation of your camera is required.
Digital Filmmaking students should bring the following to class the first day:
· Digital video camera with a fire wire port or USB port (consumer grade camera is acceptable)
· Firewire cable is necessary for MiniDV Tape Cameras and USB for HDD, Flash, and DSLRs
· Firewire cable for connecting MiniDV camera to a computer (4 Pin to 9 Pin) Firewire 800
· Tripod
*No consumer DVDRam camcorders may be used. Bring MiniDV Tape, Flash, HDD (hard drive), or DSLR camcorders only. A camcorder with both a microphone and headphone jack is strongly suggested. If looking to purchase, visit B&H Photo/Video online.
Some suggested DSLR Still Cameras for Video include:
Canon EOS Rebel T2i (500D) Digital SLR Kit w/EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS Lens - $750 *****
Nikon D90 SLR Digital Camera Kit with Nikon 18-105mm VR Lens - $1000 ****
Canon EOS 5D Mark II Digital Camera Kit with Canon 24-105mm f/4L IS USM AF Lens $3300 *****
Also bring to class with you:
· 5 blank MiniDV tapes (If your camera uses tapes.)
· 10 blank DVD-R discs
· Headphones
· Notebook, binder, and pen
· Optional: 160GB external hard drive USB 2.0 or Fire wire 800 only (for personal storage)
Before attending the first class please read the following books:
Making it Big in Shorts: The Ultimate Filmmaker's Guide to Short Films - 2nd edition (Paperback)
ISBN-10 1932907580
Ascher & Pincus. The Filmmaker's Handbook: A Comprehensive Guide for the Digital Age
ISBN-10: 0452286786
Instructor Bio: Dana Ollestad
Dana Ollestad earned his BFA from California State University at Fullerton, and is a MFA Candidate at Virginia Commonwealth University. His work includes still and moving images, sound and kinetic installation, as well as participation works and art in social context works. He has had various classroom experiences in VCU’s Photo/Film Department and looks forward to working with the Intensive Film students.