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Cinematography

Interviewing now for July 2008 intake 

Overview

The camera is the tool for painting with light but the art of the cinematographer does not begin with camera nor end with it. From storyboarding and visual interpretation of the script and story, right through the art and artistry of shooting and lighting, and into colour-grading.

We don't just teach you the art and artistry of cinematography, we develop each cinematographer as a unique individual artist.

This comprehensive course engages with both traditional film, focusing on contemporary digital techniques and technology. We will empower you with a holistic range of skills and knowledge. Meshing engaged conceptual and aesthetic approaches to the moving image, with a 100% hands-on environment of practical process with the latest equipment. Students will be pushed beyond 'Camera Operator' and 'Lighting Person' into the artistry, craft and business of the Cinematographer.

Course structure

Students work with dedicated tutors and mentors on the fine art of their specialisation in the camera and moving image, whilst also reinforcing their understanding of cinema as a whole examining screenplay, story and drama.

Students will engage an array of practical and conceptual project-based exercises that explore the diversity of cinematic thinking and process. Students also perform specific dedicated roles on IFSS student film productions. Cinematography specialists serve as dedicated DoP's on senior student major projects: cinematographers choosing the projects they work on.

Additionally, following our philosophy of producing well-rounded filmmakers, Cinematographers will be required at times to direct and edit their own film productions to grasp cinematography concepts from the perspective of other craft disciplines.

The IFSS Cinematography specialist stream aims to empower students to be holistically educated, pragmatic and creatively flexible filmmakers with a dynamic and integrated understanding of the filmmaking process as a whole around a core specialist knowledge of the art of the camera.

Course objectives

Upon completion of this courses students will be able to:

  • Identify and employ a diverse range of cinematic framing techniques to convey meaning, story, character and drama.
  • Comprehensively handle and use a wide variety of moving image cameras.
  • Use a range of lighting equipment and lighting techniques in concert with both the scene and the camera.
  • Employ an array of devices and equipment such as tripods, jib's, Steadicam and dolly’s, to move and mount cameras of varying sizes.
  • Analyse screenplays and production documents, interpret them visually and articulate a cinematic concept design.
  • Colour-Correct and Colour-Grade digital footage to construct mood, tone and visual style through colour.
  • Work with both traditional and digital filming mediums: HDCAM, Super 16mm, Red One RAW, etc.
  • Understand the various modes of delivery format for moving image media and how these formats impact upon the visual aesthetics of the image.
  • Construct and on-line showreel of their personal work.

Advanced Diploma Course Outline

Upon completion of the course students will have met the 21 statements of attainment that make up the Advanced Diploma in Screen based on the Australian National Training Authority CUF60101. However, the curriculum taught by the school far exceeds the standard and diversity of training required by the CUF60101 Advanced Diploma of Screen and aims to deliver a truly comprehensive practical and theoretical education.

2 Core Units from Group A

  • CUFGEN01A Develop and apply industry knowledge
  • CUSADM09A Address legal and administrative requirements


5 Units from Specialist Group B and C

  • CUFDRT07A Devise camera coverage
  • CUFDRT01A Read and interpret the script
  • CUFCAM02A Develop and implement a camera plan
  • CUFCAM03A Compose camera shots and operate a camera
  • CUFCAM04A Operate a camera under special conditions


5 Units from Group D

  • CUFADM01A Prepare a proposal
  • CUFRAD01A Originate and develop the concept
  • CUSADM04A Manage a major project
  • CUSADM05A Develop and implement a business/strategic plan
  • CUSGEN05A Make presentations


9 Units from Unit Bank for Adv Dip

  • CUFLGT01A Develop and implement lighting designs
  • CUFLGT03A Determine lighting requirements and operate lighting
  • CUFPOP07A Manage a film or TV shoot
  • CUFPOP08A Location manage a film or TV shoot
  • CUFDRT05A Direct the crew
  • CUFPOP03A Compile a production schedule
  • CUFSFX03A Create special FX for the screen (colour grading)
  • CUFEDT01A Make creative and technical editing decisions
  • CUSGEN01A Use and adapt to changes in technology

  Please contact us for more detailed information about this specialisation.