Week 1: Introduction & Cinema Grammar
8/25 & 8/27
Course overview and discussion of digital cinema as a medium, cinema grammar, and digital tools. No assignments due this week.
Weekly Modules
Week 2: Framing & Camera Basics
9/1 & 9/3
The fundamental principles of visual composition through the lens: framing techniques, lighting basics, and establishing spatial continuity. No assignments due this week.
Week 3: Continuity Editing & Camera Coverage
9/8 & 9/10
Editing principles and how to achieve continuity across multiple shots. Skills in basic camera coverage and continuity editing.
Due: Framing Assignment
Week 4: Making & Breaking Space
9/15 & 9/17
Cinema narration through continuity and discontinuity editing.
Week 5: Sound 101
9/22 & 9/24
Sound design for story and mood. Record and integrate audio into a short sequence.
Due: Continuity Assignment
Week 6: Story Structure & Scripts
9/29 & 10/1
Develop and organize narrative through scriptwriting. Work on 30 sec marketing video for fictional project.
Week 7: Storyboards & Pre-production
10/6 & 10/8
Visualize your film through sequential sketches and plan camera setups. Use AI tools to generate details and production design.
Week 8: Montage & Rhythm
10/13 & 10/15
Shape your narrative through editing rhythm, montage techniques, and timing.
Week 9: Visual Evidence & Documentary Portrait
10/20 & 10/22
Plan and shoot documentary-style scenes emphasizing visual storytelling and character.
Due: Montage Assignment
Week 10: Interview Setup & B-roll Integration
10/27 & 10/29
Shoot interviews with supportive b-roll footage to enhance narrative flow.
Week 11: Effects & Post‑Production
11/3 & 11/5
Apply final visual touches, transitions, and design elements. Finalize short film preparations.
Due: Profile Project Rough Cut
Week 12: One‑Minute Shorts – Small‑Group Planning
11/10 & 11/12
Shoot and begin editing your group project. Focus on timing and expressive economy.
Due: One-Minute Script/Storyboard
Due: Profile Final Project
Week 13: One‑Minute Short– Production
11/17 & 11/19
Refine and finalize your short. Present work and prepare for critique.
Due: One-Minute Rough Cut
Week 14: One Minute / Post-Production / Rough Cuts
12/1 & 12/3
Work on One Minute projects: reshoots, editing rough cuts, sound mix, titles, effects, color correction.
Week 15: One Minute Screenings
12/8 & 12/10
Showcase One Minute Video. Peer review and prepare final cut.
Due: One-Minute Final Cut