Experimental filmmaking: stage 1

About this course

This course examines how experimental film differs from conventional narrative filmmaking, including its fine art context and approaches to form and content. Participants will develop ideas, record video footage and try experimental techniques before assembling and exporting a short digital film. Teaching combines workshops, short lectures, demonstrations, tutorials, individual assistance and group discussion. Adobe Premiere Pro is taught for basic editing; DaVinci Resolve may be used with support, although it is not formally taught.

What you'll learn

• Distinguish experimental filmmaking from narrative filmmaking practice
• Develop concepts for experimental digital films
• Apply experimental approaches when capturing video
• Record video footage for an experimental film
• Complete basic edits in Adobe Premiere Pro and export a finished movie

Is this course right for you?

The course is intended for introductory learners and is open to any level, with no previous filmmaking experience required. Participants should have basic computer skills, be able to follow written and spoken instructions, and be prepared to contribute to group discussions as well as work individually.

• Basic computer use is needed, including opening applications and saving and retrieving files
• The course includes both group discussion and individual work
• Simple reading, numeracy and measurement skills are expected for course materials and safety information

Before you go

• Professional filmmaking equipment and software are available for use during the course.
• A memory stick or portable hard drive may be useful for storing work; PC-formatted drives can be read but not written to by Apple Mac computers.
• Course tasks, notes, resources and demonstration videos are shared through Google Classroom, which learners need to access before sessions.
• Additional editing practice outside class is suggested.
• The filmmaking studios use Apple Mac computers.