"Basic Film Editing" Unit Assignments- New Students

This group is composed of all of the new students to this class since the semester break. We will be focusing on getting these students caught up as much as possible on the information that we learned Fall Semester.

The following are a list of things that you need to learn ASAP to get caught up with the rest of the class:

  • How to use the V: Drive: Media Productions has its own drive for use with the editing of film, called the V: Drive. You can watch a Video Tutorial regarding the setup and use of this drive or you can review this written version from the website.
  • How to use a camera: For the first day, I will pair each new student with a veteran student to demonstrate the basics of how to turn on the cameras, how to shoot video, how to review your clips and so forth.
  • How to download your clips: Your veteran partners will also show you how to connect your camera to the computer and how to copy all of your files from your camera to your folder on the V: Drive.
  • How to do basic Sony Vegas editing: There are a number of Video Tutorials that demonstrate most of the basic editing functions that you will need to create movies in this class. After you shoot some clips, sit down with a headset and watch the following videos. I highly recommend that you stop the video frequently and try the procedures mentioned, so that you are learning them as you go.
  • Understanding Camera Angles: Review the following sheet. Please pay special attention to the camera angles marked in RED, as you will be using them frequently.
    • "The Video Language Dictionary"
    • To practice a couple of the more frequently used camera angles, please take your camera out and film 5-10 second clips that represent each of the camera angles that are highlighted in RED on the Video Language Dictionary. Then, copy the clips to the V: Drive and edit them together into a short video. Give the video a title: "A Guide to Frequently Used Camera Angles." Then, have a text screen that explains the coming camera angle and when it is used, then show your clip. Do this for each camera angle. Make sure to include a closing credit roll.
  • Using Scripts: The basic tool that a videographer uses for planning and implimenting a movie is the script. Here is an editable copy of a script. Review the form. You will be using it on your next project.
  • Understanding How to Shoot a Good Video: Please review the FIVE RULES OF GOOD VIDEOGRAPHY. You will be responsible for knowing and implimenting these in all of your future works!
  • Your First Real Movie: Now, you get to put everything together. Come up with an idea for a short 30 second movie. You movie should have a purpose, a beginning, a middle and an end. You can make it funny or serious, I don't care. Use a minimum of actors, working with actors is very difficult. Here is your priority list:
    • First, review and PRACTICE the effects and processes discussed in the three Video Tutorials below. You will be including transitions, sound and special effects into your movie.
    • Then, come up with an idea and run it by Mr. B. for approval.
    • Use the Script Form to create a script for your movie. You need to run the movie through your head and write down each and every camera angle and change in scenery on the script.
    • When you are done scripting, go out and shoot your footage.
    • When you are editing your movie, please make sure to include the transitions, sounds and visual effects that you reviewed above.
    • Include a title screen and a closing credit roll
    • Burn your movie off as an MPG and turn it in for credit!
      Deliverable
      Point Value
      Your "Guide to Camera Angles" Video: Seven different camera angles (marked in RED on this form), complete with overlaying text explaining the camera angle and its uses. Included are a Title Screen and a Closing Credit Roll. 30 points

      Your SCRIPT: A written outline of your movie, including all camera angles, shots, dialogue, etc. Use the Script Form.

      		 10 points

      Your FINAL MOVIE (Pieces and Parts): A 1-5 minute film, complete with opening Title Screen, Transitions, Special Effects (if needed), music and sound and a closing credit roll.

      		 30 points

      Your FINAL MOVIE (Quality): Quality of your film with respect to a consistent theme or story, proper use of the 5 RULES and other aesthetic qualities.

      		 30 points