Academic Catalogs

FILM A110: Film Production 1

Course Outline of Record
Item Value
Curriculum Committee Approval Date 09/23/2020
Top Code 061220 - Film Production
Units 3 Total Units 
Hours 72 Total Hours (Lecture Hours 45; Lab Hours 27)
Total Outside of Class Hours 0
Course Credit Status Credit: Degree Applicable (D)
Material Fee Yes
Basic Skills Not Basic Skills (N)
Repeatable No
Grading Policy Standard Letter (S)
Associate Arts Local General Education (GE)
  • OC Active Participation - AA (OC2)
Associate Science Local General Education (GE)
  • OCC Arts - AS (OSC1)

Course Description

The course provides an introduction to theory, terminology, operation of single camera video production, including composition and editing techniques, lighting, recording techniques, audio mixing and basic editing. This course focuses on the aesthetics and fundamentals of script writing, producing, on location, directing, postproduction, and final deliverables. Transfer Credit: CSU; UC: Credit Limitation: FILM A110 and FILM A240 combined: maximum credit, 1 course.

Course Level Student Learning Outcome(s)

  1. Demonstrate proficiency in the following areas: a. Effectively operate video camera techniques to capture high-quality footage. b. Utilize remote lighting techniques to enhance visual clarity and mood. c. Apply remote sound recording techniques to capture clear, balanced audio in various environments.
  2. Differentiate between various script formats, such as screenplays, stage plays, and radio scripts, by comparing their structure, purpose, and typical uses. Evaluate the advantages and limitations of each format in different media productions.
  3. Apply basic non-linear editing techniques by arranging, trimming, and combining video clips to create a cohesive sequence. Additionally, use tools like transitions, audio syncing, and color correction to enhance the overall flow and quality of the final edit.

Course Objectives

  • 1. List the basic techniques for video recording.
  • 2. Discuss the planning and production process of a film/video project.
  • 3. Identify camera shots, composition, and movement.
  • 4. Demonstrate the proper use of a video camera.
  • 5. Discuss continuity and how it relates to production and postproduction.
  • 6. Define and demonstrate field lighting equipment and operation.
  • 7. Define and demonstrate audio equipment and how it is used.
  • 8. Understand the role of the director.
  • 9. Demonstrate basic non linear editing techniques.

Lecture Content

Video camera formats and features: Analog vs. Digital Recording Media High Definition The basic techniques for video recording. Steady camera work Keep images in focus Get clear sound Shoot in adequate lighting Use motivated camera shots and moves Proper camera shot composition and shot sequences Camera movement: Pan Tilt Truck Dolly Arc  Camera support equipment: Tripods Jibs Dollies Proper use of a video camera Camcorder accessories: Batteries Lights Filters Adaptors Recording sound for video Continuity between shots and scenes How to edit in the camera Remote lighting equipment and operation Producing a video utilizing the elements of production Television and film script formats Split column Theatrical Introduction to computer based, non linear editing techniques Television and film directing

Lab Content

1. Camera technique/practice. 2. Non-linear editing program tutorial. 3. Lighting technique/practice.    a. Natural Light - Reflector/FlexFill/Bounce Card    b. Electrical Light - Tungsten/Gels/Diffusion 4.  Audio technique/practice.    a. Portable Audio Recording    b. Boom Mic/Boom Pole/XLR Cable 5. Various screenings of movies, clips and projects throughout the semester.

Method(s) of Instruction

  • Lecture (02)
  • Lab (04)

Instructional Techniques

1.   Lecture 2.   Demonstration 3.   Video examples 4.   One-on-one instruction 5.   Individual assignments 6.   Group assignments 7.   Assignment critique 8.   Examinations

Reading Assignments

15 hours per semester Students are assigned reading from the textbook, various online articles and blog posts, project treatments and scripts for video projects. (up to 1 hour per week)

Writing Assignments

15 hours per semester Students are given assignments to write treatments for project proposals and are required to turn in a production book for their final project containing a treatment, script, shot list, proposed budget, and credit list. Proficiency will be demonstrated by satisfactorily completing assignments and by incorporating the elements of production they have learned. Students will demonstrate critical thinking and problem-solving skills through the unitization of production techniques, budget development and implementation, and by working through production and post-production problems. (up to 1 hour per week)

Out-of-class Assignments

60 hours per semester  Students will shoot several projects from proficiency exercises (camera test) to in-camera chase projects, interview projects, and a final movie project. (3 – 3.5 hours per week)

Demonstration of Critical Thinking

Assigned individual projects  Assigned group projects Examinations

Required Writing, Problem Solving, Skills Demonstration

Students will be required to write treatments for project proposals and are required to turn in a production book for their final project containing a treatment, script, shot list, proposed budget, and credit list.   Proficiency will be demonstrated by satisfactorily completing assignments and by incorporating the elements of production they have learned.   Students will demonstrate critical thinking and problem solving skills through the unitization of production techniques, budget development and implementation, and by working through production and postproduction problems.

Eligible Disciplines

Broadcasting technology (film making/video, media production, radio/TV): Any bachelors degree and two years of professional experience, or any associate degree and six years of professional experience.

Textbooks Resources

1. Required Schroeppel, Tom. The Bare Bones Camera Course for Film and Video, 3rd ed. Tampa: Self, 2015 Rationale: latest 2. Required Gross, Lynne S. Ward, Larry W. . Digital Moviemaking, Seventh ed. Cengage Learning, 2008 Rationale: To meet C-ID sample text compatibility. 3. Required Ascher, S. Pincus, E.. The Filmmakers Handbook: A Comprehensive Guide for the Digital Age, 4th ed. Plume, 2013