Documentary film making: a practical course

- identify some different styles of documentary film
- write a proposal for a short film from your own research
- use and operate a video camera to film your own material
- film an interview effectively
- understand and use some of the ways to add sound to enhance a finished film
- use basic editing techniques like append, connect and insert to create a short sequence.
- structure a basic sequence with a beginning, middle and end to tell a story or present an argument.
What previous students have achieved on this course: “Understanding exactly what is required when considering making a documentary. The confidence to go out and make a documentary. I learned aspects of what makes a great edit. Worked with some great film makers, both tutors and students.”

“I have learnt about narrative structure and have begun to learn how to watch my own work and identify how it can be improved. I have learnt the process of making a short film and I have completed some of my film.”

“How to critically assess work, how to make a movie, lots of recording, editing and sound recording skills.”

You will need to buy your own SD cards for shooting so you can keep your own footage. You should also bring your own portable hard drive to store and back up your project (please note PC formatted hard drives can be read by Apple mac computers, but not written to.) You will be responsible for any costs relating to your 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 will be using some computer software on this...

You will be taught using a range of techniques including workshops, short lectures, demonstrations, practical exercises, tutorials, group and individual assistance and hand-outs. There will be class work and some practical sessions at locations near City Lit. Students will be expected to research and work on their project in their own time outside of class sessions.