Film Arts Information

In our Film Arts class...

We learn the fundamentals of basic film production. This includes pre-production—storyboarding, planning, story arcs, composition, production—use of cameras, sound, lighting, directing, acting, and post-production—editing, Foley, green screen, effects, & credits.

We will learn about topics such as…

Rule of Thirds
Framing (wide shot vs. close-up, etc.)
Angles (high, low, bird’s eye, etc.)
Types of cuts & transitions
Tips & tricks for successful film-making including time management, planning, and editing
What it means to be a good director, clearly expressing our vision and ideas in a group

Projects include:

Music video
Low-budget movie re-makes
Infomercials
Documentary & mockumentary
Silent film

Did you know…?

Learning photography and film studies together go hand in hand! Filmmakers use still photography skills, and vice versa,

all the time. It’s all about seeing the world from your unique perspective and finding our personal way of sharing that

story and vision with others.

Film studies classes can set students up for future success by improving visual literacy,

critical thinking skills, and even boosting memory.

Through photography, we can develop our creativity, self-expression and mindfulness.

Students will have access to soft box lights as well as adjustable LED lights to help add additional depth to their photographs as they learn more about composition and visual storytelling.

Students will, occasionally, have the option of borrowing classroom equipment for use at home, but we must learn proper care and handling in the classroom prior to this being available. Students will not have access to smart phones in class, but they are free to use them on their own at home if they choose to work on projects outside of class.

Course Description:

Students are introduced to the fundamentals of film and video production beyond that which we see on social media. We will see examples of motion picture from its foundations through modern times. Students will engage in hands-on experiences as they learn the basics through pre-production, production, and post-production. We will develop skills in composition, visual storytelling, planning, organization, time management, interpersonal communication, team-building, and overall media literacy. Students will participate in every aspect of video production, creating productions such as narrative, creative/music video, mimic/duplication, and informational. Productions will be assigned both individually and with collaborative groups in various subjects. Students may take Film Arts as many times as they would like during their time in middle school. The more we are involved in production, the more opportunity there is to hone and develop visual storytelling skills.