Quarter 1

Film Production Foundations

After initially shooting with 16mm film, students will continue expanding their

filmmaking knowledge through direct DSLR video production, while also learning

production methods and industry terminology. Through hands-on exercises and

practice, students will develop actionable skills in order to independently start making

professional films.

Production Sound

From audio theory and concepts to rigorous field experience with audio production

equipment, this class will provide a strong understanding of the essentials of audio,

microphones, recorder technology and recording techniques for film production.

Students will complete this course trained in how to listen to, evaluate and capture

professional audio for film production.

Digital Editing

Using the most current software tools, this class will provide the training so that

students will have the skills to efficiently and effectively edit digital films. We will focus

on understanding all the options available within the editing software, including basics

of the interface, the digital timeline, professional workflows and refining the cut from

top to bottom.

Lighting Foundations

This class will explore the basic vocabulary of lighting for filmmakers. Topics include

exposures, color temperatures, finding the best ambient lighting, studio light, field

lighting and more. At the end of class, students will know the terminology, techniques

and essentials of basic lighting.

Film History and Analysis

Through the study of feature films, shorts and actual scripts (from the advent of motion

pictures to the present day), students will explore how historic films convey stories

about the dramatic actions of characters, told through a balance of visual and spoken

language. This course will encourage students to engage with film through new means

of looking, thinking and writing about key films and directors.

Quarter 2

On Set Master Class

Focusing on specific film production skills, a series of lectures from working

professionals will demonstrate current industry techniques and practices for effective

work on set. During the span of this class, students will apply their lessons while working

on their own short film projects.

Post Production Sound

This class will cover available mixing and audio processing tools that enable students to

clean up noise and achieve consistency of sound, and take their post-production sound

to a professional level.

Intermediate Digital Editing

While continuing to focus on the technical skills of editing, this class will also cover the

theory and “feel” of editing for story. With the guidance and support of the instructor,

students will spend time editing their own material, while working together as a class to

improve their craft.

Advanced Lighting

This class covers more advanced lighting environments and set ups. Moving beyond

smaller light kits, this class also looks at the extensive range of commercial lights

available for setting the mood and look on set. Through constant in-class exercises, with

multiple locations, students will leave class having mastered the needed skills to deliver

any look requested for a film.

Script Writing Foundation

This class will sharpen students’ awareness of telling stories for a visual medium.

Students will participate in regular storytelling and writing exercises, while engaging in

open class discussions about character development, plot structure and themes.

Students will work towards completing an actionable writing piece at the completion of

this class.

Quarter 3

Intermediate Film Production

In this class, students will work on producing 3 - 5 short films, as they develop their

production skills. Students will have hands-on opportunities with advanced audio and

camera gear and learn new techniques as they continue to work on films, from start to

finish. This class will also continue to expand on pre-production, budgets, call sheets,

script formats, log sheets and more.

Sound Design and Scoring for Film

Going beyond capturing and processing audio, this class covers developing sound that

intentionally complements and drives the narrative of a film. After reviewing the history

of film scoring, this class will allow students to explore tools to create audio content for

film that has the power to emotionally impact an audience.

Advanced Digital Editing and Color Correction

This class covers advanced editing scenarios and on-set workflow, using professional

production media. In addition, this class will provide a comprehensive understanding of

how to use available color correction tools and train the eye to fundamentally correct

the look of a film, regardless of exhibition and recording format.

Producer Fundamentals

This class teaches students how to analyze a project’s feasibility, how to write and

compile the necessary elements of a film package and how to strategize a marketing

plan. In addition, this class will cover distribution, fundraising and understanding the

basics of film budgeting.

Intermediate Script Writing

This class will focus on completing a production-ready script. In class discussions, we will

further improve analysis of character development, conflict and story structure.

Ultimately, this class will allow students to push their writing to be more effective and

create an emotional arc with their audience.

Quarter 4

Directing Comprehensive

Students in this class will articulate their film vision as they hone their craft and work

towards a master level of filmmaking. Students will learn how to work with actors while

maintaining a thematic through-line in their film’s story and/or arc.

Northwest Film Forum Special Projects

An opportunity to experience filmmaking from many different angles: students will work

directly with staff at Northwest Film Forum to support a public-facing program. This

partnership offers a unique experience, outside the classroom, to better prepare

students with practical field and industry experience.

Industry Practicum

In this class, students will be partnered with professionals and or organizations within

the local film industry, to assist with a project. Students will gain real-world experience

as they apply related knowledge gained from their previous instruction.

Pre-Production Master Class

In class, students will break down their own script with the assistance of fellow students

and the instructor. Ultimately, students will use this structured time for the

preparations necessary to shoot their final project. Students will debut their final project

films at Local Sightings Film Festival 2016.

Electives

Throughout the school year, students will have free access to any workshops offered at

Northwest Film Forum. Students are expected to supplement their core Film School

classes with at least 30 hours from others workshops that are specific to the student’s

interest.