Introductory Film & Video at RARA - 8-Week Hands-On Workshop

REGISTRATION IS NOT FINAL until you register with the Rochester Avon Recreation Authority at ***https://rara.activityreg.com/selectactivity_t2.wcs?leaguesid=559***

Discover the art of storytelling through film! In this hands-on, 8-session course, you’ll explore the basics of visual storytelling, camera operation, lighting, and editing. Designed for beginners of all ages (teens, adults, and seniors), this class will guide you through the entire filmmaking process. With support from instructor Caitlin Reid, an experienced videographer and educator, you’ll learn to plan, shoot, and edit a 1-minute short film, and leave with the skills to bring your creative ideas to life.

Register today with the Rochester Avon Recreation Authority!

• $150 for Rochester residents
• $170 for non-residents

Great value for an 8-week hands-on course!

COURSE CURRICULUM
Session 1: Introduction to Filmmaking and Visual Storytelling

• Topics Covered: Course overview, basic principles of visual storytelling, framing, angles, and camera movement.
• Activities: Group introductions, discussion on favorite films and why they work, an overview of 1-minute short film examples.
• Learning Outcome: Understanding the fundamentals of visual storytelling, framing, and the power of angles.

Session 2: Storyboarding and Developing Ideas

• Topics Covered: Storyboarding basics, brainstorming ideas, developing a storyline for a 1-minute film.
• Activities: Create a simple storyboard based on a short film concept; storyboard templates provided for guidance.
• Learning Outcome: Ability to translate ideas into visual plans and organize creative thoughts into storyboards.

Session 3: Introduction to Camera Operation and Cinematography

• Topics Covered: Basic camera functions (e.g., focus, exposure, framing), shot types, and composition.
• Activities: Practice using personal cameras or smartphones; hands-on camera exercises in small groups.
• Learning Outcome: Comfortable operation of basic camera settings, understanding shot composition, and the importance of different shot types.

Session 4: Lighting Essentials

• Topics Covered: Types of lighting (natural vs. artificial), three-point lighting, and how light affects mood and tone.
• Activities: Experiment with different lighting setups using in-class lighting gear; discuss how lighting influences storytelling.
• Learning Outcome: Awareness of lighting techniques and how to use lighting to create mood and enhance storytelling.

Session 5: Sound and Audio Basics

• Topics Covered: Importance of sound in film, basics of capturing quality audio, and using sound to enhance storytelling.
• Activities: Record audio samples with smartphones or basic audio equipment; experiment with dialogue, ambient noise, and effects.
• Learning Outcome: Basic understanding of sound design, techniques for capturing clear audio, and the role of sound in film.

Session 6: Filming and Production Day

• Topics Covered: Practical application of storyboarding, camera, lighting, and sound skills in a production setting.
• Activities: Each participant films their 1-minute short film, with guidance and feedback from the instructor.
• Learning Outcome: Practical experience in setting up and filming, using foundational skills to bring their storyboard to life.

Session 7: Introduction to Editing

• Topics Covered: Basics of editing, using free software, arranging clips, adding transitions, and using sound/music.
• Activities: Hands-on editing using provided software; work on arranging and refining footage.
• Learning Outcome: Knowledge of basic editing skills and familiarity with editing software, creating a cohesive narrative from raw footage.

Session 8: Final Edits, Screening, and Feedback

• Topics Covered: Fine-tuning edits, peer feedback, and sharing the final films.
• Activities: Final edits, group screening, constructive feedback session, discussion on the filmmaking journey and what’s next.
• Learning Outcome: Confidence in presenting a finished short film, understanding the value of peer feedback, and celebrating creative accomplishments.