Documentary film making: a practical course

Ever had a subject you thought would make a documentary film but lacked the knowledge and skills required to make it happen? This is a practical hands-on course learning the various elements needed to make a short documentary; and developing skills that will enable you to make your own short film. .

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Key course information

Dates
10/10/11 - 12/03/12

Day(s)
Mon

Duration
20 weeks

Time
10:30 - 13:30

Fees
Full fee: £486
Senior fee: £317

Venue
KS - Keeley Street

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Course code
VG388

Availability
This course has finished

No concessionary fees are available as the limit has been reached.

This course has finished

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Still got questions?
visualarts@citylit.ac.uk or call 020 7492 2700

Course outline

What is the course about?

Have you ever wanted to make a short documentary film about a subject that appeals to you? This course will give you an overview of documentary film history, film techniques, and the basic skills needed to shoot your own short film.

What topics will we cover?

You will learn a brief history of the genre, examine the structure of different types of documentary film, look at researching subject matter and writing a proposal, shooting techniques, operation of digital camcorder, interviewing subjects, using sound and some basic editing skills.

By the end of this course you should be able to:

• Identify different styles of documentary film.
• Research your own idea for a short film (approx. 5 mins long).
• Write a proposal for a short film from your own research.
• Operate a digital camcorder.
• Use film language to create a scene and montage sequence.
• Film an interview.
• Understand how sound contributes to a finished film.
• Use basic editing to create a short film.

What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?

You need to have an interest in the field of documentary, film and photography. Some basic experience of using a camcorder or stills camera useful but not essential. Some basic computer IT skills, basic numeracy and literacy needed.

You should be able to follow simple written and verbal instructions, demonstrations, hand-outs and health and safety information, and will be invited to take part in group discussion. You should be able to use numbers and be able to do simple measurements and calculations.

Please look at the rest of the course outline carefully to decide if you may benefit from support in your English and Maths skills to help you to take part fully in this class.

How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?

There will be class work and some practical sessions at locations near City Lit. You will need to do research and project work in your own time outside of the sessions.

Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?

You will need to buy your own SD cards for shooting and are responsible for any costs relating to your own film project such as location fees or release forms. During the class you can use the Digital Arts studio's HD cameras for project work. If you own a camcorder this may be useful if you wish to shoot outside of college time. You may need to pay for travel costs to your own project locations. Most importantly bring enthusiasm and a burning desire to create your own short documentary film!

Do I need to have an interview before I can enrol?

No.

What feedback will I get?

You will receive regular feedback from your tutor throughout the course, as and when appropriate. At the end of the course you and your tutor are asked to assess the progress you have made. There will be on-going group discussions about your work in progress.

How will I be able to give my views on the course?

Please complete the evaluation form at the end of your course. These are monitored and help us to continually improve our courses.

How do I find out if I can get some support for my learning?

You may be interested in: education and careers advice; financial and childcare support; disability support; support for Deaf and hearing-impaired students; dyslexia support; English and maths support; counselling, and library services (supported learning centre). To find out what may be available to you, and how to apply, see page 213 of the 11/12 course guide, or visit www.citylit.ac.uk/students

When I've finished, what course can I do next?

You may wish to develop your editing skills in a range of editing courses at City Lit suitable for all levels. Please see the City Lit prospectus or website for details.

General information and advice on courses at City Lit is available from the Information and Advice Shop, open Monday to Friday 12:00 – 19:00 during term time, and Monday to Friday 12:00 – 17:00 out of term time. See the course guide for term dates and further details.

Who can I contact for further information?

Tel: 020 7492 2700

visualarts@citylit.ac.uk

Please email us for advice or call us during these times:

Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays - 9.00 -12.00 & 15:00-18:00

Thursdays - 9.00-12.00

Saturdays - 14.00-17.00

To enrol on a course, call 020 7831 7831.

Contact us

Visual arts

Tel: 020 7492 2700

visualarts@citylit.ac.uk

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