Course Resources Archive

The module aims for students to gain a detailed knowledge of the level 4 production equipment, develop an understanding of content, form and critical theory and to gain an insight into the production process and, as a result, the roles and responsibilities of all those involved.

Whether you are making a drama or a documentary you are fundamentally telling a story. The challenge, to convey via light, movement and sound, an idea, a fact or a narrative.

This module provides students with an essential technical grounding in all aspects of Cinematography, Editing and Sound. – including the Sony VG10 camera, Depth of Field, Focus, Aperture, White Balance, Lighting and use of the sound kit Tascam, Microphones and  Final Cut Pro X software. Through a range of lectures, screenings and workshops students will explore the medium initially through a range of simple projects then by making a series of short films. Each project will be discussed at a CRIT with lecturers and fellow students to help develop an understanding of content, form and critical theory and an appreciation of how this relates to the aesthetic of the finished production. This also establishes the importance of being able to reflect upon what you have learnt.

Students will be divided into a variety of small groups to make sure they all get to know one another and that through working as part of a crew they will gain an insight into the production process and, as a result, the roles and responsibilities of all those involved. There is one exam, one role research paper and several crits during the module to clarify the importance of clear and effective communication, both in verbal and written forms.

Although this is one module it is taught very specifically in conjunction with Screenwriting I (MD4901) and Introduction to Pre Production (MD4701) so that all aspects of production directly relate to their practice.

1. To gain a working knowledge of the level 1 production equipment and in so doing to remove one of the barriers to successful film-making.

2. To develop an understanding of content, form and critical theory and an appreciation of how this relates to the aesthetic of the finished production.

3. To gain an insight into the production process and, as a result, the roles and responsibilities of all those involved, including Health and Safety considerations.

4. To understand the need to work in a professional manner and to apply this to all aspects of the production process.

5. To understand the importance of clear and effective communication, both in verbal and written forms.

6. To understand the value and importance of reflecting upon what you have learnt.

The Library Catalogue contains full details of the current reading list for this module. Further details may also be found in the Module Guide.