Ready to try some nonsync shooting but don’t know where to start? Or need a refresher in basic 16mm camera operation? Learn to use the Film Center’s Bolex and Arri cameras, veteran workhorses for silent nonsync shooting. Emphasis will be on loading, exposure, light meter techniques, accessories, cleaning, and troubleshooting. Handling of the cameras will be extensive.

Learn how to dramatically vary the mood and quality of light in a scene with a couple of basic light kits. As the fundamentals are explained and demonstrated, become familiar with key, fill, backlight, and kicker/rim light and how cookies, flags, scrims, and silks affect a light source. An understanding of light meters and film stocks is helpful but not required.

This camera is the indie standard in digital video shooting. Learn the basics of shooting at a 24p frame rate (which aligns with film). Workshop also covers inputs, settings, troubleshooting, aspect ratios (4x3, 16x9, squeeze function), proper use of external microphones, adapters and batteries, and white balancing. Handling of the cameras will be extensive.

Learn basic sound recording techniques by becoming familiar with the Film Center’s sound recording gear, including the Marantz PMD-660, as well as the Sound Devices 702 Digital Audio Recorder, Mix-Pre, and 302 field mixers. Students will also receive a general overview of microphone types and uses, from lavaliers to shotguns.

Using Apple’s revolutionary editing software, Final Cut Pro, participants will learn the basics of nonlinear editing, including logging, digitizing, editing shots together, adding transitions (dissolves, wipes), and outputting to digital videotape. Session includes a brief break.

Pre-requisites: Working knowledge of video editing and Macintosh operating system.

You can’t create and/or update a portfolio reel, apply for grants, show your work, or keep a general record of your DV accomplishments if you don’t know how to collect, migrate, and otherwise manage your media. Learn how to select, format, organize, and back-up an external drive. Store files so they can be accessed later for re-editing or outputted to formats such as tape and disc. Save your work for different applications (e.g. Web, DVD). These skills will make it possible to rebuild a project in the event of a system crash or other catastrophe.