Welcome to the webpage for DFM 25S and VP 20S. All important course information and resources will be posted on this page.
Important Note: You do not need DFM 25S as a prerequisite for VP 20S. There is an error in the handbook. If you are enrolled in both you will need to drop one of the courses.
Thanks for a great semester!
Don't forget to sign up for VP 30S. You can also consider signing up for other courses such as Digital Imaging and Editing & Effects.
See you at the Video Festival in May!!
Jan. 6
Happy New Year!
We only have thirteen days left (counting today). That doesn't leave us a lot of time for your last project. I can't stress how important it is to get going right away.
VP 20S
Final Project:
Create a trailer for a film that has not been made. Believe it or not, there have been a few instances in which filmmakers have made trailers for movies that do not exist. Some of those trailers ended up as feature films! Now is your chance to make your own trailer...that may end up as a feature film one day.
Your trailer must:
- be at least one minute in length.
- must include a wide variety of shots (we'll talk about this in class)
- must show the semblance of a story
- must not be goofy humor
You will be marked on your ability to match the elements of a trailer. We will spend some time looking at trailers in class today.
As well, this project will follow the usual expectations for shots, color correction, editing, titles, credits, and audio.
Dec. 17
It's great to be back!
Today, we'll be watching another short film. This time, we'll watch a short that Wes Anderson made for Prada.
I will also talk briefly about memory cards. I'll will be referencing this article.
Also, don't forget that Assignment 6 is due by the end of the week.
Dec. 2
VP 20S
We're moving on to the next assignment. If you are not finished the last assignment, make sure that you get it in asap.
Assignment 6
This assignment is an opportunity to make your first short. You will be able to showcase all the skills and techniques that you have learned so far.
Your video will be a short narrative that is no longer than five minutes in length. It must meet the following requirements:
- You must have a particular genre in mind when you come up with the idea. A large portion of the mark will be based on your understanding of the genre that you selected. If you choose a genre, such as comedy, you will need to show that you have an idea of what types of stories, shots, and scenes fit into that genre. You will have to do some research.
- Create a script using Celtx.
- Add titles, music (only royalty free or your own), and credits.
- As with any of your videos, you will need to apply the skills and techniques learned throughout the course. Sound quality and color correction are just a couple examples of what I am talking about.
I can provide a theme if groups are having trouble coming up with ideas.
Nov. 27
DFM 25S
Last class, we looked at some examples of establishing shots. In case you missed it, we viewed Payback and School Ties.
Remember, an establishing shot can setup both the setting and the character(s). A strong establishing shot can set the mood for a movie.
Here's your assignment (Assignment 5):
You are going to need to come up with an idea for a short narrative.
Part 1
To do so, you are going to start by creating a character. Spend some time brainstorming with your group. Come up with a clear idea of who this character is, what drives them, what scares them, what their interactions are like. Once you've done that, create a detailed description of your character on a separate piece of paper. Here's what it should include:
1. A short description of who the character is. Feel free to provide some back story if you wish. Provide as many details as you can. Remember, you are describing this person to someone who has never met them.
2. A list of characteristics for that character. Think of any trait that this person might have. If you are stuck on what to write, go here. There are 447 traits for you to choose from. Please use point form for this portion of the write up.
3. A sketch of your character. Consider everything from how they dress to how well groomed they are. No stickmen (or stick people) allowed.
Part 2
Create a script for an opening scene from your movie. Yes, it is possible that this script may not have any dialogue. That's ok. Consider that this is the opening for a much longer movie. We are only going to be filming this portion. We are emphasizing establishing shots!
Part 3
Film the opening of the movie. Your scene should aim to meet the following requirements:
- It must establish the setting.
- It must provide context about the character.
- It must set the tone for the movie.
You will also be expected to color grade your footage and improve your sound quality. I would like each group to incorporate at least one sound effect.
Nov. 25
VP 20S
Friday will be the deadline for your current project. Make sure that you check the assignment requirements before submitting your work.
Also, please make sure that you have exported projects 3 and 4 to the proper folders.
Nov 7
We're going to continue with our character driven projects. I'll also hand back the tests today. For those who didn't do that well, remember that there are extra credit options available.
Also, please check out the the CAA video contest. We have two Massey videos that are currently vying for top spot.
Oct. 29
VP 20S
Yesterday we looked at some examples of establishing shots. In case you missed it, we viewed The Village, Payback, and School Ties.
Remember, an establishing shot can setup both the setting and the character(s). A strong establishing shot can set the mood for a movie.
Here's your assignment (Assignment 5):
You are going to need to come up with an idea for a short narrative.
Part 1
To do so, you are going to start by creating a character. Spend some time brainstorming with your group. Come up with a clear idea of who this character is, what drives them, what scares them, what their interactions are like. Once you've done that, create a detailed description of your character on a separate piece of paper. Here's what it should include:
1. A short description of who the character is. Feel free to provide some back story if you wish. Provide as many details as you can. Remember, you are describing this person to someone who has never met them.
2. A list of characteristics for that character. Think of any trait that this person might have. If you are stuck on what to write, go here. There are 447 traits for you to choose from. Please use point form for this portion of the write up.
3. A sketch of your character. Consider everything from how they dress to how well groomed they are. No stickmen (or stick people) allowed.
Part 2
Create a script for an opening scene from your movie. Yes, it is possible that this script may not have any dialogue. That's ok. Consider that this is the opening for a much longer movie. We are only going to be filming this portion. We are emphasizing establishing shots!
Part 3
Film the opening of the movie. Your scene should aim to meet the following requirements:
- It must establish the setting.
- It must provide context about the character.
- It must set the tone for the movie.
You will also be expected to color grade your footage and improve your sound quality. I would like each group to incorporate at least one sound effect.
Oct. 23
As mentioned in class, we will be having a term test. The date for the test will be Friday, November 1. All of the information that you need can be found in the Video Production Terminology and Important Information sheet.
More info to come. Stay tuned.
Also, we will be moving on to Assignment 5 next week. That means that you will no longer have class time to work on Assignments 3 & 4 after this week.
Include opening titles (which must also match the mood).
Export to the Assignment 5 folder.
Oct. 22
VP 20S
As promised, here is the marking scheme for Assignment 4. Take a look at this before you submit your project.
Oct. 16
Before you get too far with Project 3, take a look at the marking scheme. If you need to make any last minute changes, now is the time to do so.
Oct. 15
VP 20S
Remember our talk about color grading and color correction? Someone does that for a living! Check out this article from Creative Cow about Natasha Leonnett.
Oct. 11
Because of the condensed classes this morning, we will not be shooting today. Instead, we are going to look at color correction. Aside from sound quality, this is one of the best ways to make your video better.
Here are some tutorials that we will look at:
Adobe TV - Adding Adjustment Layers in Premiere Pro
Creative Cow - Color Correction
Oct. 10
DFM 25S
Today we will look at spatial connection, and in particular, the 180 degree rule. Here are a few videos that we will look at in class today to help reinforce these techniques:
Indy Mogul 180 Degree Rule
Lights Film School 180 Degree Rule (and Camera Dynamism)
Scene from Jerry Maguire
Scene from The Dark Knight
Here are the details of your next assignment:
Assignment 3
For Assignment 3 you will be making two videos that you will be combining into one. Each scene will revolve around a conversation. Also, the goal of Assignment 3 is to introduce you to spatial connections (and continuity), the 180 degree rule, and depth of field (with the 50mm lens).
Part 1
Using Celtx, create a script for a short video that will focus on a conversation between two people. The conversation must start off somewhat casual and then escalate into a tense scene.
Plan your scene by deciding on the location and the shots that you will use. Your shots will need to match the emotion of the scene (camera dynamism).
Film your scene with a 50 mm lens. Remember, the 50mm lens is a prime lens (there is no zoom). Make sure your actors know their marks and that they stick to them.
Edit your footage in Premiere. Make sure that you include opening titles, credits and a soundtrack (if necessary).
Part 2
The goal of Part 2 is to build on skills and techniques learned in Part 1, and to introduce you to temporal continuity.
Using Celtx again, create a script for another short video. This time you will be creating a conversation between two people that only somewhat makes sense. Think: absurd.
Film this scene with a standard lens, but do so in such a way that you break spatial and temporal continuity between your shots. Yes, you are encouraged to do some bad filmmaking.
Import your footage to your local machine. Edit in Premiere (same timeline as the Part 1 - the two scenes will be part of the same video). Add titles, credits and a soundtrack (if need be). Export to the Assignment 3 folder with your group members names in the file name.
Oct. 7
VP 20S
As I mentioned on Friday, we will spend some time looking at getting rid of background noise. Here are two of the tutorials we will be looking at today:
Removing Background Noise (Premiere Pro)
Removing Background Noise (Audition)
Oct. 2
VP 20S
We are now entering into the world of external audio. We'll talk about using the Zoom and how to set up your audio recording.
A few things that you need to remember about filming external audio:
- You need to set a mark (possibly a clap of the hands) to help sync your audio in post.
- Someone in your group must have headphones. You won't believe what these mics pick up.
- Always check your audio levels before you begin. Every shot should start with the "check, check, check" noise.
- Import your audio immediately before or after you import your footage. The two should go hand in hand.
- Always format your card after importing. Always format your card before filming (you don't want someone else's audio mixed in with yours).
Sept. 30
VP 20S
Today is depth of field day. We're going to look at a couple of videos and a great article about the good and bad of depth of field.
Sept. 25
VP 20S
If you haven't completed Assignment #2, make sure that you do so as soon as possible. We are moving on to Assignments 3 & 4.
We are going to work on two assignment at once to allow everyone the chance to work with specific equipment - the zoom mic and the 50 mm lenses.
For these assignments, you will need to work in groups of three. You will also need to start a Celtx account for screenwriting purposes.
Assignment 3
The goal of Assignment 3 is to introduce you to spatial connections (and continuity), the 180 degree rule, and depth of field (with the 50mm lens).
Using Celtx, create a script for a short video that will focus on a conversation between two people. The conversation must start off somewhat casual and then escalate into a tense scene.
Plan your scene by deciding on the location and the shots that you will use. Your shots will need to match the emotion of the scene.
Film your scene with a 50 mm lens. Remember, the 50mm lens is a prime lens (there is no zoom). Make sure your actors know their marks and that they stick to them.
Import your footage to your local machine. Edit. Add titles, credits and a soundtrack (if need be). Export to the Assignment 3 folder with your group members names in the file name.
Assignment 4
The goal of Assignment 4 is to build on skills and techniques learned in Assignment 3, and to introduce you to temporal continuity. You will also be working with external audio.
Using Celtx again, create a script for another short video. This time you will be creating a conversation between two people that only somewhat makes sense. Think: absurd.
Film this scene with a standard lens, but do so in such a way that you break spatial and temporal continuity between your shots. Yes, you are encouraged to do some bad filmmaking.
Record each shot using one of the zoom mics. Remember to mark your clips by clapping at the beginning.
Import your footage to your local machine. Edit. Add titles, credits and a soundtrack (if need be). Export to the Assignment 3 folder with your group members names in the file name.
We will view the following videos before we start (to help explain some of the concepts):
Indy Mogul: The 180 degree rule
Lights Film School : 180 degree rule and other shot sequence tips
Leon the Professional - 180 degree rule
Sept. 24
VP 20S
Today is your last day to work on Assignment #2. Make sure that you export the video with the proper settings. Also, don't forget to include all of your group members' names in the file name.
DFM 25S
It's time to start on your next assignment. You will have a chance to explore many of the camera's manual settings with this next project.
You will need to get a variety of shots that have varying frame rates, and exposure settings. Make sure that you keep a list of all your shots and the settings that you used for each shot. Here are the shots that you need:
1. 24 fps
2. 30 fps
3. 60 fps
4. Cinema quality footage (as outlined in the video that we watched in class - shutter and frame rate)
5. ISO 200, 1600, 6400 (indoors)
6. ISO 200, 1600, 6400 (outdoors)
7. Shutter speeds 100, 200 (all at 24 fps)
8. *New* The lowest aperture setting.
9. *New* The highest aperture setting.
10. 60 fps converted to 24 fps.
Note: #'s 4-7 are at 24 fps. #s 1-6 are at shutter speed of 50.
You must also include the following types of shots (in the clips above):
-Long shot (or wide shot)
-Medium shot
-Close up
-Extreme close up
-Bird's eye view
-Ant's eye view
-POV shot (point of view)
-Over the shoulder
Need help finding these shots? Check out this page from Media College.
The theme for this video is sadness. Try to make this video is melancholy as possible. Similar to your first video,
you will need to add titles and a soundtrack (think sad). You will also need to add a title to each of the clips that details what settings you have (which of the assignment criteria you are meeting). Please order the clips in the same order that they are listed above.
Sept. 16
VP 20S
The first thing we will do today is look at one of the most important videos that you will see in this class. How do we achieve the "film look"? Here's how.
Let's test this theory. It's time for a video scavenger hunt (of sorts). You and your group will need to film footage with the following requirements:
1. 24 fps
2. 30 fps
3. 60 fps
4. 60 fps (converted to 24 fps)
5. Cinema quality footage (as outlined in the video - shutter and frame rate)
6. ISO 200, 1600, 3200, 6400 (indoors)
7. ISO 200, 1600, 3200, 6400 (outdoors)
8. Shutter speeds 50, 100, 200 (all at 24 fps)
You must also include the following types of shots (in the clips above):
-Long shot (or wide shot)
-Medium shot
-Close up
-Extreme close up
-Bird's eye view
-Ant's eye view
-POV shot (point of view)
-Over the shoulder
Need help finding these shots? Check out this page from Media College.
The theme for this video is sadness. Try to make this video is melancholy as possible. Similar to your first video, you will need to add titles and a soundtrack (think sad). You will also need to add a title to each of the clips that details what settings you have (which of the assignment criteria you are meeting). Please order the clips in the same order that they are listed above.
Friday, Sept 13
As promised yesterday, here is the link to Adobe TV (tutorials to help you learn the program).
Today we will focus on exporting our projects. To do so, I will show you the process.
As I will mention, you will need to have the following settings:
Format: H.264
Preset: 1080p 23.976 fps (29.9 for those who shot at 30 fps)
When naming the file, include the group member(s) name(s) and the assignment name. For example, you would save your file as "joe smith and bob smith assignment 1". All projects need to be saved on the server.
Groups>Video Production>Video Production 20S>Assignment 1 Final Product
I'll also talk a little about the Massey Video Club again today. We'll watch the video that we showed at the clubs fair yesterday.
Tuesday, Sept 10
It's time to use the cameras. Not only that, we'll also learn how to edit using Adobe Premiere Pro.
Here's what we'll be doing:
1. Watch a video example of this first project.
2. Listen to a brief talk about using the cameras and filming in the school.
3. Get into a group (no more than five per group).
4. Get a camera from Mr. Manness or Mr. Gaudes.
3. Take turns running the camera, directing, and acting.
4. Go out and film two shots of each member of your group posing. Pick different areas for the actors to pose. Try to be creative. You could try Tebowing or planking, if need be.
5. You must have at least one pan and one tilt shot.
6. Bring your footage back to class and upload to the server.
7. Have each group member copy the footage to their local machine.
8. Edit the footage in Adobe Premiere Pro, add a soundtrack and export the final product as an H.264 file (1080p
24 fps).
9. Copy the final product to the Video Production Folder>Assignment 1 (DFM 25S students will save to the DFM folder). The file should have your name and the project title (for example "John Smith Assignment 1").
10. Pat yourself on the back for a job well done.
Monday, Sept 9
VP 20S
We'll continue from where we left off on Friday. In groups of two (one group per computer) complete the scavenger hunt from Friday's class. Try to be as thorough as possible.
Once the scavenger hunts have been taken care of, we will spend a little bit of time talking about the cameras that we will be using in this course - DSLRs. First, we will watch a short video that explains how DSLRs work. Next, we'll put a camera in your hands and talk about some of the traps that students fall into when shooting video with these cameras.
If there is time, I will explain what your first project will be.
Friday, September 6
DFM 25S
Welcome to the course. We'll start today with a quick survey and some introductions (including the course outline). You'll also need to complete this scavenger hunt as a group.
VP 20S
Your user accounts are ready! We'll review the surveys from yesterday, go over the course outline, peruse the weebly and complete a scavenger hunt as well.
Don't forget to sign up for VP 30S. You can also consider signing up for other courses such as Digital Imaging and Editing & Effects.
See you at the Video Festival in May!!
Jan. 6
Happy New Year!
We only have thirteen days left (counting today). That doesn't leave us a lot of time for your last project. I can't stress how important it is to get going right away.
VP 20S
Final Project:
Create a trailer for a film that has not been made. Believe it or not, there have been a few instances in which filmmakers have made trailers for movies that do not exist. Some of those trailers ended up as feature films! Now is your chance to make your own trailer...that may end up as a feature film one day.
Your trailer must:
- be at least one minute in length.
- must include a wide variety of shots (we'll talk about this in class)
- must show the semblance of a story
- must not be goofy humor
You will be marked on your ability to match the elements of a trailer. We will spend some time looking at trailers in class today.
As well, this project will follow the usual expectations for shots, color correction, editing, titles, credits, and audio.
Dec. 17
It's great to be back!
Today, we'll be watching another short film. This time, we'll watch a short that Wes Anderson made for Prada.
I will also talk briefly about memory cards. I'll will be referencing this article.
Also, don't forget that Assignment 6 is due by the end of the week.
Dec. 2
VP 20S
We're moving on to the next assignment. If you are not finished the last assignment, make sure that you get it in asap.
Assignment 6
This assignment is an opportunity to make your first short. You will be able to showcase all the skills and techniques that you have learned so far.
Your video will be a short narrative that is no longer than five minutes in length. It must meet the following requirements:
- You must have a particular genre in mind when you come up with the idea. A large portion of the mark will be based on your understanding of the genre that you selected. If you choose a genre, such as comedy, you will need to show that you have an idea of what types of stories, shots, and scenes fit into that genre. You will have to do some research.
- Create a script using Celtx.
- Add titles, music (only royalty free or your own), and credits.
- As with any of your videos, you will need to apply the skills and techniques learned throughout the course. Sound quality and color correction are just a couple examples of what I am talking about.
I can provide a theme if groups are having trouble coming up with ideas.
Nov. 27
DFM 25S
Last class, we looked at some examples of establishing shots. In case you missed it, we viewed Payback and School Ties.
Remember, an establishing shot can setup both the setting and the character(s). A strong establishing shot can set the mood for a movie.
Here's your assignment (Assignment 5):
You are going to need to come up with an idea for a short narrative.
Part 1
To do so, you are going to start by creating a character. Spend some time brainstorming with your group. Come up with a clear idea of who this character is, what drives them, what scares them, what their interactions are like. Once you've done that, create a detailed description of your character on a separate piece of paper. Here's what it should include:
1. A short description of who the character is. Feel free to provide some back story if you wish. Provide as many details as you can. Remember, you are describing this person to someone who has never met them.
2. A list of characteristics for that character. Think of any trait that this person might have. If you are stuck on what to write, go here. There are 447 traits for you to choose from. Please use point form for this portion of the write up.
3. A sketch of your character. Consider everything from how they dress to how well groomed they are. No stickmen (or stick people) allowed.
Part 2
Create a script for an opening scene from your movie. Yes, it is possible that this script may not have any dialogue. That's ok. Consider that this is the opening for a much longer movie. We are only going to be filming this portion. We are emphasizing establishing shots!
Part 3
Film the opening of the movie. Your scene should aim to meet the following requirements:
- It must establish the setting.
- It must provide context about the character.
- It must set the tone for the movie.
You will also be expected to color grade your footage and improve your sound quality. I would like each group to incorporate at least one sound effect.
Nov. 25
VP 20S
Friday will be the deadline for your current project. Make sure that you check the assignment requirements before submitting your work.
Also, please make sure that you have exported projects 3 and 4 to the proper folders.
Nov 7
We're going to continue with our character driven projects. I'll also hand back the tests today. For those who didn't do that well, remember that there are extra credit options available.
Also, please check out the the CAA video contest. We have two Massey videos that are currently vying for top spot.
Oct. 29
VP 20S
Yesterday we looked at some examples of establishing shots. In case you missed it, we viewed The Village, Payback, and School Ties.
Remember, an establishing shot can setup both the setting and the character(s). A strong establishing shot can set the mood for a movie.
Here's your assignment (Assignment 5):
You are going to need to come up with an idea for a short narrative.
Part 1
To do so, you are going to start by creating a character. Spend some time brainstorming with your group. Come up with a clear idea of who this character is, what drives them, what scares them, what their interactions are like. Once you've done that, create a detailed description of your character on a separate piece of paper. Here's what it should include:
1. A short description of who the character is. Feel free to provide some back story if you wish. Provide as many details as you can. Remember, you are describing this person to someone who has never met them.
2. A list of characteristics for that character. Think of any trait that this person might have. If you are stuck on what to write, go here. There are 447 traits for you to choose from. Please use point form for this portion of the write up.
3. A sketch of your character. Consider everything from how they dress to how well groomed they are. No stickmen (or stick people) allowed.
Part 2
Create a script for an opening scene from your movie. Yes, it is possible that this script may not have any dialogue. That's ok. Consider that this is the opening for a much longer movie. We are only going to be filming this portion. We are emphasizing establishing shots!
Part 3
Film the opening of the movie. Your scene should aim to meet the following requirements:
- It must establish the setting.
- It must provide context about the character.
- It must set the tone for the movie.
You will also be expected to color grade your footage and improve your sound quality. I would like each group to incorporate at least one sound effect.
Oct. 23
As mentioned in class, we will be having a term test. The date for the test will be Friday, November 1. All of the information that you need can be found in the Video Production Terminology and Important Information sheet.
More info to come. Stay tuned.
Also, we will be moving on to Assignment 5 next week. That means that you will no longer have class time to work on Assignments 3 & 4 after this week.
Include opening titles (which must also match the mood).
Export to the Assignment 5 folder.
Oct. 22
VP 20S
As promised, here is the marking scheme for Assignment 4. Take a look at this before you submit your project.
Oct. 16
Before you get too far with Project 3, take a look at the marking scheme. If you need to make any last minute changes, now is the time to do so.
Oct. 15
VP 20S
Remember our talk about color grading and color correction? Someone does that for a living! Check out this article from Creative Cow about Natasha Leonnett.
Oct. 11
Because of the condensed classes this morning, we will not be shooting today. Instead, we are going to look at color correction. Aside from sound quality, this is one of the best ways to make your video better.
Here are some tutorials that we will look at:
Adobe TV - Adding Adjustment Layers in Premiere Pro
Creative Cow - Color Correction
Oct. 10
DFM 25S
Today we will look at spatial connection, and in particular, the 180 degree rule. Here are a few videos that we will look at in class today to help reinforce these techniques:
Indy Mogul 180 Degree Rule
Lights Film School 180 Degree Rule (and Camera Dynamism)
Scene from Jerry Maguire
Scene from The Dark Knight
Here are the details of your next assignment:
Assignment 3
For Assignment 3 you will be making two videos that you will be combining into one. Each scene will revolve around a conversation. Also, the goal of Assignment 3 is to introduce you to spatial connections (and continuity), the 180 degree rule, and depth of field (with the 50mm lens).
Part 1
Using Celtx, create a script for a short video that will focus on a conversation between two people. The conversation must start off somewhat casual and then escalate into a tense scene.
Plan your scene by deciding on the location and the shots that you will use. Your shots will need to match the emotion of the scene (camera dynamism).
Film your scene with a 50 mm lens. Remember, the 50mm lens is a prime lens (there is no zoom). Make sure your actors know their marks and that they stick to them.
Edit your footage in Premiere. Make sure that you include opening titles, credits and a soundtrack (if necessary).
Part 2
The goal of Part 2 is to build on skills and techniques learned in Part 1, and to introduce you to temporal continuity.
Using Celtx again, create a script for another short video. This time you will be creating a conversation between two people that only somewhat makes sense. Think: absurd.
Film this scene with a standard lens, but do so in such a way that you break spatial and temporal continuity between your shots. Yes, you are encouraged to do some bad filmmaking.
Import your footage to your local machine. Edit in Premiere (same timeline as the Part 1 - the two scenes will be part of the same video). Add titles, credits and a soundtrack (if need be). Export to the Assignment 3 folder with your group members names in the file name.
Oct. 7
VP 20S
As I mentioned on Friday, we will spend some time looking at getting rid of background noise. Here are two of the tutorials we will be looking at today:
Removing Background Noise (Premiere Pro)
Removing Background Noise (Audition)
Oct. 2
VP 20S
We are now entering into the world of external audio. We'll talk about using the Zoom and how to set up your audio recording.
A few things that you need to remember about filming external audio:
- You need to set a mark (possibly a clap of the hands) to help sync your audio in post.
- Someone in your group must have headphones. You won't believe what these mics pick up.
- Always check your audio levels before you begin. Every shot should start with the "check, check, check" noise.
- Import your audio immediately before or after you import your footage. The two should go hand in hand.
- Always format your card after importing. Always format your card before filming (you don't want someone else's audio mixed in with yours).
Sept. 30
VP 20S
Today is depth of field day. We're going to look at a couple of videos and a great article about the good and bad of depth of field.
Sept. 25
VP 20S
If you haven't completed Assignment #2, make sure that you do so as soon as possible. We are moving on to Assignments 3 & 4.
We are going to work on two assignment at once to allow everyone the chance to work with specific equipment - the zoom mic and the 50 mm lenses.
For these assignments, you will need to work in groups of three. You will also need to start a Celtx account for screenwriting purposes.
Assignment 3
The goal of Assignment 3 is to introduce you to spatial connections (and continuity), the 180 degree rule, and depth of field (with the 50mm lens).
Using Celtx, create a script for a short video that will focus on a conversation between two people. The conversation must start off somewhat casual and then escalate into a tense scene.
Plan your scene by deciding on the location and the shots that you will use. Your shots will need to match the emotion of the scene.
Film your scene with a 50 mm lens. Remember, the 50mm lens is a prime lens (there is no zoom). Make sure your actors know their marks and that they stick to them.
Import your footage to your local machine. Edit. Add titles, credits and a soundtrack (if need be). Export to the Assignment 3 folder with your group members names in the file name.
Assignment 4
The goal of Assignment 4 is to build on skills and techniques learned in Assignment 3, and to introduce you to temporal continuity. You will also be working with external audio.
Using Celtx again, create a script for another short video. This time you will be creating a conversation between two people that only somewhat makes sense. Think: absurd.
Film this scene with a standard lens, but do so in such a way that you break spatial and temporal continuity between your shots. Yes, you are encouraged to do some bad filmmaking.
Record each shot using one of the zoom mics. Remember to mark your clips by clapping at the beginning.
Import your footage to your local machine. Edit. Add titles, credits and a soundtrack (if need be). Export to the Assignment 3 folder with your group members names in the file name.
We will view the following videos before we start (to help explain some of the concepts):
Indy Mogul: The 180 degree rule
Lights Film School : 180 degree rule and other shot sequence tips
Leon the Professional - 180 degree rule
Sept. 24
VP 20S
Today is your last day to work on Assignment #2. Make sure that you export the video with the proper settings. Also, don't forget to include all of your group members' names in the file name.
DFM 25S
It's time to start on your next assignment. You will have a chance to explore many of the camera's manual settings with this next project.
You will need to get a variety of shots that have varying frame rates, and exposure settings. Make sure that you keep a list of all your shots and the settings that you used for each shot. Here are the shots that you need:
1. 24 fps
2. 30 fps
3. 60 fps
4. Cinema quality footage (as outlined in the video that we watched in class - shutter and frame rate)
5. ISO 200, 1600, 6400 (indoors)
6. ISO 200, 1600, 6400 (outdoors)
7. Shutter speeds 100, 200 (all at 24 fps)
8. *New* The lowest aperture setting.
9. *New* The highest aperture setting.
10. 60 fps converted to 24 fps.
Note: #'s 4-7 are at 24 fps. #s 1-6 are at shutter speed of 50.
You must also include the following types of shots (in the clips above):
-Long shot (or wide shot)
-Medium shot
-Close up
-Extreme close up
-Bird's eye view
-Ant's eye view
-POV shot (point of view)
-Over the shoulder
Need help finding these shots? Check out this page from Media College.
The theme for this video is sadness. Try to make this video is melancholy as possible. Similar to your first video,
you will need to add titles and a soundtrack (think sad). You will also need to add a title to each of the clips that details what settings you have (which of the assignment criteria you are meeting). Please order the clips in the same order that they are listed above.
Sept. 16
VP 20S
The first thing we will do today is look at one of the most important videos that you will see in this class. How do we achieve the "film look"? Here's how.
Let's test this theory. It's time for a video scavenger hunt (of sorts). You and your group will need to film footage with the following requirements:
1. 24 fps
2. 30 fps
3. 60 fps
4. 60 fps (converted to 24 fps)
5. Cinema quality footage (as outlined in the video - shutter and frame rate)
6. ISO 200, 1600, 3200, 6400 (indoors)
7. ISO 200, 1600, 3200, 6400 (outdoors)
8. Shutter speeds 50, 100, 200 (all at 24 fps)
You must also include the following types of shots (in the clips above):
-Long shot (or wide shot)
-Medium shot
-Close up
-Extreme close up
-Bird's eye view
-Ant's eye view
-POV shot (point of view)
-Over the shoulder
Need help finding these shots? Check out this page from Media College.
The theme for this video is sadness. Try to make this video is melancholy as possible. Similar to your first video, you will need to add titles and a soundtrack (think sad). You will also need to add a title to each of the clips that details what settings you have (which of the assignment criteria you are meeting). Please order the clips in the same order that they are listed above.
Friday, Sept 13
As promised yesterday, here is the link to Adobe TV (tutorials to help you learn the program).
Today we will focus on exporting our projects. To do so, I will show you the process.
As I will mention, you will need to have the following settings:
Format: H.264
Preset: 1080p 23.976 fps (29.9 for those who shot at 30 fps)
When naming the file, include the group member(s) name(s) and the assignment name. For example, you would save your file as "joe smith and bob smith assignment 1". All projects need to be saved on the server.
Groups>Video Production>Video Production 20S>Assignment 1 Final Product
I'll also talk a little about the Massey Video Club again today. We'll watch the video that we showed at the clubs fair yesterday.
Tuesday, Sept 10
It's time to use the cameras. Not only that, we'll also learn how to edit using Adobe Premiere Pro.
Here's what we'll be doing:
1. Watch a video example of this first project.
2. Listen to a brief talk about using the cameras and filming in the school.
3. Get into a group (no more than five per group).
4. Get a camera from Mr. Manness or Mr. Gaudes.
3. Take turns running the camera, directing, and acting.
4. Go out and film two shots of each member of your group posing. Pick different areas for the actors to pose. Try to be creative. You could try Tebowing or planking, if need be.
5. You must have at least one pan and one tilt shot.
6. Bring your footage back to class and upload to the server.
7. Have each group member copy the footage to their local machine.
8. Edit the footage in Adobe Premiere Pro, add a soundtrack and export the final product as an H.264 file (1080p
24 fps).
9. Copy the final product to the Video Production Folder>Assignment 1 (DFM 25S students will save to the DFM folder). The file should have your name and the project title (for example "John Smith Assignment 1").
10. Pat yourself on the back for a job well done.
Monday, Sept 9
VP 20S
We'll continue from where we left off on Friday. In groups of two (one group per computer) complete the scavenger hunt from Friday's class. Try to be as thorough as possible.
Once the scavenger hunts have been taken care of, we will spend a little bit of time talking about the cameras that we will be using in this course - DSLRs. First, we will watch a short video that explains how DSLRs work. Next, we'll put a camera in your hands and talk about some of the traps that students fall into when shooting video with these cameras.
If there is time, I will explain what your first project will be.
Friday, September 6
DFM 25S
Welcome to the course. We'll start today with a quick survey and some introductions (including the course outline). You'll also need to complete this scavenger hunt as a group.
VP 20S
Your user accounts are ready! We'll review the surveys from yesterday, go over the course outline, peruse the weebly and complete a scavenger hunt as well.