Advice on What to Include in a Class

Jim Brennan

Jim Brennan

VHS Member Old Skool
I've been asked to come and speak to a group taking a "Basic Filmmaking " class.

These are people who are brand new to the concept and I will be covering an overview of (as it was put to me) "the technical stuff". The instructor is a very good screenwriter and director, and that is what he will be covering (along with pre-pro, production management and distribution). My job is to give them an overview of cameras, audio, lighting, production design and post. Obviously I can't cover all of that in a few hours, so I thought I would start with a top 10 list of the biggest tech giveaways in an amateur film. I am also going to strongly recommend that they hire a crew. But as far as covering the basics. Here's what I had in mind.

1) Cameras: Basic differences in format (film, HD and SD), aspect ratio, and media delivery. I will also touch on basic camera support, framing and movement

2) Audio: Basic sound kits, boom vs lav, basic techniques, room tone and background noise.

3) Lighting: Color temperature, white balance, basic 3 point lighting, and knowing how to judge how much juice you would need.

4) Production Design: Aesthetics and practical considerations of a location, effective props, the use of color, and wardrobe.

5) Post: Basic editing, platforms, apps, and techniques.

This class is not designed to give them answers as much as it is to lay the groundwork and give them resources to pursue. I would appreciate feedback on my syllabus, resources (books, websites, DVDs), and what you think are the most obvious technical giveaways of an amateur production.

Thanks
 
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Yeah, Jim, I think you really need to point out the importance of good sound. Too many filmmakers think of sound as an afterthought.

Also, the importance of lighting. Good lighting can raise the level of production value.

And last, I'd say something about set design. Nothing shouts amateur louder than shooting in a room with one piece of furniture and bare walls. :beer:
 
I know this isn't really technical advice but maybe you could also stress that young filmmakers use the right actor for age appropriate roles. Nothing worse than seeing a 20 year old playing a CIA agent, or even worse... a world leader!

:grin:
 
For me one the biggest amateur giveaways is when I see an apartment set with bare white walls. Unless you're making THX-1138, start painting...or find a better location. And MOVE that camera. Even a simple skateboard dolly can give you a lot of production value.
 
Thanks guys. Good stuff. I'm really going to encourage them to build a team with experience whenever they can, but I want them to have the basic knowledge to fill in the gaps when they have to.
 
I would make sure to tell them not to get too caught up in worrying about having all the right equipment and shoot with what you have.
 
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