Video Filmmaking, as it is taught at Davis High School, Davis California, teaches beginning, student, film makers the basics of videography, video editing and animation. Students plan, shoot and edit videos that they will present to the class. This class is leveled for high school student, however anybody who wants to make a film can benefit from the following techniques and exercises.
Why call it "video film?" Afterall, video is shot on tape. Originally, in the 1890's, pioneer cinematographers used celluloid film that carried a photosensitive layer. This is very similar to photographic films that are still available for non digital cameras. Film makers used photographic films exclusively until recently when video technology improved substantially with digital video. Although we are moving closer to fully digital productions, photographic film is still used. We call the class video film because it is film making using a digital-video camera. If we used a traditional camera, we would just call it film making.
The word "movies" is slang for "motion pictures" or "moving picures" but generally speaking, motion picture photography is wider in scope and includes any process that involves images in motion. Movies are what we go to see in theatres and later watch on DVD. Movies are originally a Hollywood invention.
Computers now make video editing much more accessible. Anybody with a video camera, a computer and software can film and edit a movie. However, not everybody can film and edit well. It takes knowledge of the techniques of film editing and sufficient practise to make a film that is watchable. Early in the evolution of film, directors and cinematographers learned quickly what kept audiences in their seats and returning for more. They discovered what techniques worked well to tell a story. This site includes many of the basic techniques that historically, many professional film makers use for their productions.
The link below will lead you to the different projects offered. Although it is not necessary to follow them in order, if you are taking the class you should follow the program.
The very basics. You should already have learned these - but - its a great idea to review what you have probably forgotten. Knowing what the elements are does not make you an artist, but, it helps.
More of the basics but a little more advanced. You my have already have learned these - but - its a great idea to review what you have probably forgotten. Knowing the principles does not make you an artist, but, it helps.
Film also has elements: lights - camera - action...
A list of vocabulary words that you really should know to be media literate.
Although everybody new to the camera does these, its even better not to continue doing them. Read this list and be able to identify and correct your mistakes.
The Stones of Rokute
A few helpful hints for better looking films.
Youth Film Festival
Shot List
Learn and memorize these basic shots!
Principles of Film Assignments
the film journal well written essays on film
Rotten Tomatoes - film reviews