Available in 2024
Course code

CMNS2035

Units

10 units

Level

2000 level

Course handbook

Description

In this course, students will develop skills and knowledge in cinematography through an exploration of the cinematographer's role in a film crew and an understanding of the technical and aesthetic parameters of professional practice in collaborative groups/teams. Building on fundamental techniques, this course will provide an understanding of creative visual storytelling in cinematic form and is informed and contextualised by an overview of the history of cinematography. Students will learn single camera recording skills, editing techniques, and the application of video codecs and export formats appropriate for screen delivery.


Availability2024 Course Timetables

Newcastle City Precinct

  • Semester 1 - 2024

Learning outcomes

On successful completion of the course students will be able to:

1. Apply digital cinematography practices and techniques in short video productions;

2. Demonstrate digital cinematography skills through selection of visual compositions using lens perspective, lighting contrasts, tone and visual montage techniques;

3. Display safe operational procedures when shooting short video productions;

4. Display proficiency in acquiring moving images that tell a visual story and meet a pre-determined narrative.


Content

Topics covered include:

  • Functions of the cinematographer, director, gaffer, sound recordist and editor in a digital environment;
  • Composition and visual storytelling through focus, framing, exposure and lighting;
  • Using different image capture systems and safe camera positioning and movement;
  • Accommodating sound recording for video in multiple environments;
  • Using a professional video camera in multiple environments where light sources and colour temperatures change;
  • Monitoring images in the field and "shooting for the edit";
  • Video codecs and export options.

Assumed knowledge

For students who commenced prior to 2020, assumed knowledge is CMNS1230 and CMNS1130. All other students are assumed to have completed CMNS1240.

It will be assumed that students can demonstrate an ability to develop short video content, utilise single camera production techniques used in the field and can edit using non-linear software.


Assessment items

Professional Task: LIght and Shadow video project

Professional Task: Moving Subject video project

Professional Task: Interview video project

Professional Task: Short film project with production paperwork


Contact hours

Semester 1 - 2024 - Newcastle City Precinct

Film Screening-1
  • Face to Face On Campus 2 hour(s) per week(s) for 1 week(s) starting in week 13
Lecture-1
  • Face to Face On Campus 1 hour(s) per week(s) for 4 week(s) starting in week 1
Tutorial-1
  • Face to Face On Campus 2 hour(s) per week(s) for 11 week(s) starting in week 2

Course outline