Category Archives: Film

480 Documentary Filmmaking

JRN/FLM F480 F01Documentary Filmmaking

Spring 2013

Prof. Robert Prince

Office: Bunnell 105C

Office Phone: 474-6249

E-mail: rob.prince@alaska.edu

 

Required Reading:

Artis, Anthony Q., The Shut Up and Shoot Documentary Guide, Focal Press 2007

ISBN-10: 0240809351  ISBN-13: 978-0240809359

Our documentary filmmaking textbook is available online through our library link:

http://goldmine.uaf.edu/uhtbin/cgisirsi.exe/W3UnCqC9YN/UAFRAS/250960067/9  

 

Course Description:

JRN F480       Documentary Filmmaking (h)
3 Credits         Offered Spring

Basics of hands-on documentary filmmaking techniques, including preproduction, production and postproduction. Different documentary filmmaking directing styles and the process of distributing a documentary. Each student will produce a short documentary as the capstone of the course. Special fees apply. Prerequisites: Basic experience in shooting and editing video or permission of instructor. Cross-listed with: FLM F480. (3+0)

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Course Goals:

Upon successful completion of the course, students will be expected to have a working knowledge of how to effectively produce, direct, and edit a short documentary.

Student Learning Outcomes:

Upon successful completion of this course, students will:

1)      Know how to write a budget and treatment

2)      Know how to film a good story and acquire the necessary content

3)      Know how to organize the edit of their film and distribute it

Instructional Methods:

This course will be taught through lectures, class activities, and production work.

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Expectations of Students:

  1. Push yourself to do your best work for this class.  If you don’t do your best work now, when will you do it?  Remember who writes your recommendation letters.
  2. Arrive to class on time.  Tardiness will result in a reduced grade (see “Attendance/Tardiness” below) and may prevent you from taking quizzes.
  3. Make sure your cell phones are on silent.
  4. Laptops are allowed in class, however I reserve the right to close your laptop if I suspect you are using it for non-class-related purposes regardless of whether or not I have evidence to support that suspicion.
  5. Come to class prepared, having completed the required homework and ready to participate in class discussions.
  6. Attend every class.  Unexcused absences will results in a reduced grade (see “Attendance/Tardiness” below).
  7. Participate in every class.
  8. Check your Blackboard e-mail every weekday.
  9. Respect your peers.  Support and encourage them and offer constructive criticism of their projects.
  10. Ask questions during or after class when you do not understand something or are having a problem.  If you don’t understand something, chances are at least some of your peers don’t understand it either.
  11. Take notes.
  12. If you are having a problem outside of class that is affecting your ability to perform in this class, please let me know as soon as you can.  You do not need to disclose the details of your situation.  Although doing well in college is very important and you need to work hard, do not let the pressure overwhelm you.  Your personal health and sanity are more important than good marks.  I consider myself a very easy person to talk to and encourage you to come speak to me if you need to discuss issues course-related or otherwise.

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Equipment Policies

Access to the computers and video production equipment is on a first come, first serve basis.  Access to the editing room is available virtually 24-7.  You will need permission from us to have security let you in the building during the weekend.

Cameras must be checked out and returned through Amy Simpson, the department assistant, Robert Prince or Jason Lazarus.  The Monday-Friday hours when you can do that will be announced as soon as possible.  We recommend that you reserve equipment well in advance of when you need it.  Cameras can be checked out for only one evening or the weekend. You have to sign a waiver before you can check out any equipment.  Cameras and editing equipment are also available for check out through the Rasmuson library.

The hard drives on the lab computers will be erased every Friday afternoon to prevent the buildup of excessive files on the drives.  If you need an exception from this, make sure to let Jason Lazarus or me know.

Building Access:

Access to the Journalism computer lab is virtually 24/7 with your Polar Express card.  As long as you can get into the Bunnell Building, you can access the lab.  You can remain in the lab after the building has closed.  The lab is not open to students when classes are meeting in the lab.  Those times will be posted on the lab door.  If you are in the lab when a class is about to begin, you will be asked to leave.  Note that some classes meet only occasionally in the lab and professors do their best to post those times on the door in advance of the class meeting time.

Bunnell Building hours vary.  Note that sometimes the south entrance by the Journalism Department is locked while one or both of the north entrances by the flags are open, so try the other doors if you cannot enter through the south entrance.

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Final Grade Breakdown:

  • Attendance/Tardiness: 20%
  • Production Assignment—Interview:  15%
  • Synopsis, Treatment and Budget:  5%
  • Final Project: 30%
  • Midterm Examination: 25%
  • Quizzes:  5%

 

Expectations for grading components:

Attendance/Tardiness: 20%

 

“Eighty percent of success is showing up.”

—Woody Allen

 

Each unexcused absence in this class will reduce your final grade.  If you have six or more unexcused absences, then you will automatically fail the course REGARDLESS of if your other grades were high enough to allow you to pass the course.

Excused absences will not affect your attendance grade (though you will lose the extra credit).  An excused absence is when you have notified me before class that you will not be able to make it to class for a valid reason: sick, personal emergency, etc.  “I’m too busy” or “I can’t find a ride to class” are not valid reasons for missing class.

You must notify me BEFORE class for an absence to be excused.  Telling me hours or days later why you missed class will not excuse the absence.  Treat this class like a job.  If you don’t show up to work and don’t call in, you get fired.  The only exception to this rule is that I will accept a doctor’s note up to a week after you return to class as an excuse for an absence.

Students who have zero absences (excused or unexcused) and no tardies will receive extra credit in their final grade.  Any absence or tardy for any reason will remove this extra credit, unless you have earned a free tardy which I give out on occasion.

Make sure to contact me after an absence to see what announcements or assignments you missed.  I recommend you ask a fellow student for a copy of their notes from that class to see what material we covered.

 

“Twenty percent of success is showing up…on time.”

—Robert Prince

 

Because coming late to class disrupts class, at times can force us to wait for you, and can mean missing important announcements, every three times you arrive late to class I will add one absence to your grade.  Redefine “on time” to class in your mind to mean “five minutes early.”  If you do arrive to class late, make sure to see me after class to make sure I mark you as present and let you know about any announcements I may have made that day.  If you forget to tell me you were late for class, you will receive an absence.

 

Here is how your absences will affect your final grade:

 

0 Absences (and zero tardies) = 110% for attendance (equals +2% extra credit)

Unexcused Absence = -10% from attendance grade per each

6+ Unexcused Absences = Automatically fail the course

 

Production Assignment—Interview:  15%

Film an approximately five minute interview with a subject that you may or may not intend to use in your final project.  Pay special attention to the composition, background, audio, focus, white balance and exposure.  A detailed description of the assignment will be handed out in class.

 

Synopsis, Treatment and Budget:  5%

Write a synopsis, treatment and budget for the project you intend to do for this class.  The synopsis should be a one or two sentence core description of your project.  The treatment is an approximately one-page pitch for your project including style and format of the film.  The budget should include cost estimates for the entire production as if you were actually paying for the equipment the university is providing. A detailed description of the assignment will be handed out in class.

 

Final Project: 30%

The capstone assignment for this course will be short documentary between 5-15 minutes long.  Students who wish to produce a half-hour film with the intention of having it broadcast can do so with special permission.  The final documentary projects will be presented in a public screening during the final exam period. A detailed description of the assignment will be handed out in class.

 

Midterm Examination: 25%

Covers the readings and lectures.

 

Quizzes:  5%

Cover material from recent lectures and exercises.  Missed quizzes can be made up only for excused absences.

 

Final Exam: 

There will be no final exam, however I reserve use of the final exam period for a public performance of your final projects.

 

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Grading Guidelines:

A:  An honor grade that indicates originality and independent work, mastery of the subject and the satisfactory completion of more work than is regularly required.  To get an “A,” students in my classes need to impress me with the work they’ve done on an assignment and go well beyond what I asked for in the assignment.

94%-100% = A, 90%-93% = A-

 

B:  Indicates outstanding ability above the average level of performance.  To get a “B,” students in my classes need to do exactly what I asked for in the assignment and do it well.

87%-89% = B+, 84%-86% = B, 80%-83% = B-

 

IMPORTANT GRADING POLICY INFORMATION

 

Implications of the Grade of ‘C’ (and below) for letter-graded

undergraduate courses which are:

 

–Prerequisites for other courses, or

–Degree major requirements, or

–Core courses

 

C+ (2.3): Satisfactory to Fair: satisfactory level of performance, with some

mastery of material.

C (2.0): Average: satisfactory level of performance and level of competency

in the subject. A minimum grade of ‘C’ (2.0) is required for all

prerequisites and major courses.

C- (1.7): Barely satisfactory: Minimum grade required for all Core (X)

Courses. A grade of C- (1.7) in a class which is a prerequisite for another

class or in a class required for a student’s major will result in the

student being required to retake the class.

77%-79% = C+, 74%-76% = C, 70%-73% = C-

 

D+ (1.3); D (1.0); D- (0.7): Below Average: Fair to poor level of competency

in the subject matter.  A grade of D+, D or D- in a Core (X) class will

automatically require the student to retake the class to receive core

credit, starting Fall 2011.

67%-69% = D+, 64%-66% = D, 60%-63% = D-

 

F:  Indicates failure to meet lowest standards.  To get an “F,” students in my classes will have missed major elements of the assignment and/or the content will be all—or nearly all—poor quality.

0%-59% = F

 

For additional grading policy information, see the UAF Catalog.

 

Course Policies:

Late work or quizzes will be docked 15% plus an additional 15% for each class period it is not turned in after the due date.  Backup your work, reserve video equipment, and work ahead of deadlines so you can avoid these problems.  If you miss the midterm exam, you will need documentation proving the legitimacy of your absence to avoid the 15% grade reduction.

 

Projects can be redone only if there is sufficient evidence that a requirement(s) of the assignment was described in a way that a reasonable adult would find confusing or ambiguous and that unclear element of the assignment directly related to the student’s reduced grade.

 

All work must comply with the University of Alaska Fairbanks policies on student conduct found online at www.uaf.edu/catalog/current/academics/regs3.html.

All work must be original productions for this course and plagiarism will result in a zero for the assignment, a possible F for the class, and potentially further academic discipline.  Ignorance of what it means to plagiarize will not be an excuse from punishment.  If you have questions about plagiarism, contact me before you hand in the assignment.

 

I will make reasonable accommodations for individuals with documented disabilities. Notify me within the first two weeks of the semester if you have any special needs.

 

Journalism Lab Policies:

Welcome to the Journalism Labs!  The following is a list of tips and guidelines for lab usage to insure that your experience in any of our labs goes smoothly and is highly productive.  If you have any questions at all about the following, please either ask your instructor or our Computer Tech, Jason, available at Bunnell 102b, 474-6020 or fyjbtech@uaf.edu.

 

•           First note that you’re working on Macintosh computers – if you’re not used to these types of computers, have limited computing skills, or are unfamiliar with OS X (the operating system), please inform the instructor of this so that extra help can be dispensed when needed.

•           Each of the computers in our three labs are password protected with different passwords for each lab – Please request passwords from your instructor only. Do not give out these passwords to anyone.

•           Many of you will opt to save your files on Thumbdrives (USB drives).  These work great for saving and transporting your work between home and school.  But, unlike PC’s, Macs expect you to “eject” or “unmount’ your thumbdrive before you unattach it from your computer.  Do so by dragging your thumbdrive from the desktop to the trash bin (which will change to an “eject” symbol).  Not doing this can cause you to lose your information and possibly ruin the thumbdrive.

•           Save and save often!  You will be able to not only save on your computer but have several other options to save your files – always use the default (saving to your computer) as well as one of the following secondary methods to insure you don’t lose your files.  Your instructor will give you access to the Journalism file server which can be used for all your files (short of large video files and personal files).  You can also use email to send files to yourself or use thumbdrives to carry your files home with you.  Additionally, Lab 128 and 106 are fully equipped with CD/DVD burners and 126 has several CD/DVD burners as well.  At any time your computer could crash and your files could be lost – save in at least one more location!  Additionally, this insures that if someone is using “your” computer, you don’t have to wait for them to get off of it.

•           Do not abuse the computers.  DCC as well as the Journalism Department monitors computer usage and will report improper use of departmental equipment.  Treat these computers as if someone is watching your usage – because they are!  Additionally, do not damage, hit, or take your frustrations out on any of our equipment.  If you’re getting frustrated – walk away and take a break.

•           Don’t leave any personal items in the labs after class.  Once or twice a week each lab will be cleaned and all personal items will be thrown away or placed in a lost and found.

•           No food/drinks are allowed in 126 or 128.  For Lab 106, please try to limit your food to the tables.

•           We have film scanners, flatbed scanners, DV/miniDV Decks, Minidisc Recorders and DV Cameras available in our labs as well as for checkout.  Please talk to your instructor about access to any of these if you need them for a class project.  Check out will be posted in the Journalism Office.

•           Do not access highly personal items on these computers such as bank accounts and anything dealing with your social security number.  We have seen far too many people leave access to their bank accounts open on lab machines far after they’ve left the room.  Be vigilant!

•           Most of all if you’re having any problems talk to your instructor or our Computer Tech, Jason.  We’re all more than willing to help you out with any problem!  Jason is available quite a bit during normal office hours – please consult his schedule on his door.

 

Support Services:

I will make reasonable accommodations for individuals with documented disabilities, for example, providing an in-class note taker, providing a quiet and solitary test-taking environment, or other reasonable accommodations in line with your documented needs.  Disability services will provide you with documentary indicating what kind of assistance you need and, based on that evidence, I will implement that assistance to the best of my abilities. Notify me within the first two weeks of the semester if you have any special needs.

 

The departments listed below provide resources for students with disabilities, help writing papers, and help preparing for class presentations:

 

Disability Services

e-mail. fydso@uaf.edu

tel. 907-474-5655

tty. 907-474-1827

Whitaker Building Room 208

www.uaf.edu/disability

 

About Disability Services

At UAF Disability Services, our goal is to provide UAF students with access to academic classes and course materials through an interactive accommodation process.

UAF Disability Services provides accommodations to students on the Fairbanks campus as well as on the Bristol Bay, Chukchi, Interior Aleutians, Kuskokwim, Northwest, Community Technical College (CTC), Center For Distance Education (CDE), and College for Rural and Community Development (CRCD) campuses.

Students using community campuses or distance learning programs should contact Disability Services via telephone, fax, e-mail, U.S. postal mail, or in person to request and arrange for accommodations.

We enjoy supporting individuality, promoting independence and celebrating graduations.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Writing Center

Dept. Of English

801 Gruening Bldg.

(907) 474-7193

faengl@uaf.edu

 

The Writing Center is a student-staffed, student-oriented service of the English Department. Our tutors, English Department teaching assistants and a few outstanding undergraduate students, can assist you in all phases of the writing process, including the following:

 

  • Brainstorming and generating topics
  • Organizing ideas
  • Developing research strategies
  • Use of citation styles — MLA, APA, and Chicago
  • Editing for clarity and correctness

 

We collaborate with each student on a one-to-one basis, and we will work with students at any phase of the writing process — planning, drafting, revising. We can also help writers discover ways of improving grammar, mechanics, and punctuation.

Tutorials. Tutorial appointments at the Writing Center are 30 minutes long, and we encourage you to call or stop by to make an appointment. Walk-in sessions are often available, but in the last half of the semester we are often booked.

Fax Tutoring. We provide a fax tutoring service for students enrolled in the College of Rural and Community Development (CRCD). Students can fax their papers to us (1-800-478-5246), and they will have a telephone tutorial with a tutor at a designated time. We offer fax tutorials Monday through Thursday evenings and Sunday afternoons. Phone the Writing Center (907/474-5314) to make an appointment.

 

Speaking Center

Dept. of Communication

507 Greuning Bldg.

(907) 474-5470

fyspeak@uaf.edu

What is the Speaking Center?

The Speaking Center is a student-oriented service provided to facilitate preparing public presentations. Students can recieve coaching in refining their presentation topic, in organizing their presentation effectively, and in practicing their presentation. The Center makes it possible to digitally record and to watch one’s practice presentation, receiving constructive feed back from a Speaking Center coach.

 

Who can use the Speaking Center?

The Speaking center is available to all students currently enrolled at UAF or at TVC.

 

Scheduling Procedures

Please call 474-5470 or e-mail fyspeak@gmail.com to schedule an appointment at the Speaking Center. Walk-ins are welcome, however, students can be served only if there are openings.

Individuals may schedule the Center’s practice room daily any time prior to Speaking Center hours.

 

About Your Professor:

I grew up in East Lansing, Michigan and graduated from Calvin College with a B.A. in Telecommunications.  After college I went to work in Chicago for Kurtis Productions, producers of the Investigative Reports series on A&E.  I then was hired as a Producer/Director for the PBS affiliate in Grand Rapids, Michigan where I directed live and pre-recorded programs for local broadcast.  In 2000 I went back to Calvin to run the video production department.  While working there I earned my M.A. from Michigan State University in Telecommunication, Information Studies and Media.

In 2005 I moved to Fairbanks to teach video production and documentary filmmaking in the Journalism Department at the University of Alaska Fairbanks.

 

 


 

Want more video classes?  Check these out:

 

JRN F251 Television Production

3 Credits / Offered Fall/ Prof. Prince

Television studio production, floor directing, audio, camera, staging, lighting and switching.

 

JRN F280 Video Storytelling (h)
3 Credits / Offered Fall / Prof. Prince
Basics of digital video production technology, composition, audio, lighting and editing as it relates to primarily non-fiction filmmaking. Students will conclude the course by producing their own short videos. Special fees apply. (Cross-listed with FLM F280.) (3+0)

 

JRN F290 Digital Video Editing

3 Credits / Offered As Demand Warrants / Prof. Prince

Introduction to the technical and aesthetic aspects of non-linear digital video editing. Students will go from little or no experience in non-linear editing to being comfortable with some of the advanced editing techniques. Address motion picture editing theories that are not bound to time or specific editing technology. Special fees apply. (Cross-listed with FLM F290.) (3+0)

 

JRN F453 Television News Reporting

3 Credits / Offered As Demand Warrants/ Prof. Prince

Electronic news gathering using videotape equipment, scriptwriting, location sound recording, interview techniques, editing, videography and other aspects of field news reporting. Prerequisites: COMM F131X or COMM F141X; JRN F451; JRN F452; or permission of the instructor. JRN F452 may be taken concurrently with JRN F453.

 

 

 

 

 

How do I log on to Journalism Lab Computers?

  • If you’re sitting at the logon screen, click “Other” to login.
  • If “Other” is unavailable, wait 10-15 seconds and it will pop up.
  • Use your UA Credentials (UA Username & password) to log in.
  • You will be prompted to enter your UA Credentials again to mount your Lab Shares –  you can choose to do this or “cancel”.

“UA Credentials”? What’s that?

  • Your UA Username & password are used for a variety of services at UAF, including UAF email through Gmail, Blackboard & ELMO.
  • Not sure of your UA Credentials?  At the computer logon screen, use the “JRNLABS” account to log in.  Your instructor can provide you with the password.  This is a shared account and does not provide the privacy of your individual account BUT it provides you with the exact same access to all programs.  From here, use an Internet Browser to visit  https://elmo.alaska.edu to reset your password or Blackboard / UAF Email to “check” that the password you’re using is correct.
  • DO NOT continue to “guess” the password.  You will lock yourself out of your accounts which requires OIT to reset.  In most cases when students can’t login, it’s because they’ve forgotten their password is case sensitive or they’ve forgotten the password altogether.
  • Are you logged into your UA account but it looks different than other students? Contact Jason Lazarus in Bun 114 or at 474-6020.

“Lab Shares”? What’s that?

  • All UAF students have paid a Technology Fee that gives them limited shared space that’s accessible from all OIT labs on campus – and now that same space is accessible in Journalism Labs.
  • Are your UA Credentials not working for the Lab Shares logon?  Click “Cancel” and continue – you’ll still be able to use the computer.  Contact Jason Lazarus in Bun 114 or at 474-6020 for additional assistance.
  • Lab Shares provides you with space to save files and have them accessible throughout all lab machines – saving on the desktop ONLY saves on that specific computer’s desktop.
  • When mounted, Lab Shares will be accessible from the right side of your dock.

Journalism “ASIP” Server?

  • This is where you’ll save your assignments so your instructor can grade your class projects.  This is shared Server space where anyone can see your files – so only save project material – not sensitive information!
  • Once you’re logged on and you’ve got a file you need to turn in for an assignment, your instructor will provide you with logon information for a specific folder for your class – click on “ASIP” (located on the right side of your dock) and use that login information.   Once you’ve logged on, you’ll be able to find “News-FS” (or “Photo-FS” or “Art-FS, depending on your logon info) on the left side of any finder window.
  • If you’ve got files you want to work on that are on the server, ALWAYS click-and-drag them to the desktop and THEN open them.  Once done, save & click & drag them back onto the server.  This insures you’re working LOCALLY – which is much faster and doesn’t bog down the computer.

As always, Journalism is not responsible for lost files on Lab Shares, ASIP or individual computers.  Every student is expected to back up their own data on thumbdrives, USB hard drives or CD/DVDs.

Questions?  Contact Jason Lazarus in Room 114, or 474-6020, for further assistance!

 


Tentative Course Schedule:

Date:

Subject:

ASSIGNMENT DUE:

WEEK 1

 Introduction to the course

WEEK 2

 Pre-Production Chapter 1: “Pre-Production”
– CONT’D Chapter 2: “Location, Location, Location”

Documentary Project Ideas

WEEK 3

– CONT’D 

 

BUDGETS, TREATMENTS, SYNOPSIS 

WEEK 4

WATCH DOCUMENTARIES  Using the CameraChapter 3: “Image Control and Camera Work”

WEEK 5

Lighting for DocumentaryChapter 4: “Lighting”

 

– CONT’D

WEEK 6

The Hardest Part:

 

Recording Clear AudioChapter 5: “Sound Recording”

Assignment:  Synopsis, Treatment and Budget – CONT’D 

WEEK 7

Getting the Shots you NeedChapter 6: “Composition & Coverage”

 

– CONT’D 

WEEK 8

Conducting the InterviewChapter 7: “Interview Prep” – CONT’DChapter 8: “Conducting Interviews”

WEEK 9

Spring Break 

 

Spring Break

WEEK 10

Review Interview FootageProduction Assignment: Interview Review Interview Footage

WEEK 11

The Cutting Room FloorChapter 9: “Post-Production”

 

– CONT’D

WEEK 12

View Raw FootageFinal Project Raw Footage View Raw Footage

WEEK 13

Publicity, Festivals, and Distribution

 

– CONT’D

WEEK 14

EXAM  IN CLASS EDITING PERIOD

WEEK 15

View Rough ProjectsFinal Project Rough Edits

 

View Rough Projects

WEEK 16

VIEW FINAL PROJECTSFinal Project Edits

 

VIEW FINAL PROJECTS

FINAL EXAM

Final project public screening:

1 – 3 p.m., Thursday, May 9

 

 

 

290 Digital Video Editing

JRN/FLM F290

Digital Video Editing

SPRING 2013

Prof. Robert Prince

Office: Bunnell 105C

E-mail: rob.prince@alaska.edu

 

Required Reading:

Media Composer 6: Part 1 – Editing Essentials (Avid Learning) [Paperback]

http://www.amazon.com/Media-Composer-Editing-Essentials-Learning/dp/1133727980/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1346114330&sr=8-4&keywords=avid+certification

Media Composer 6: Part 2 Effects Essentials (Avid Learning) [Paperback]

http://www.amazon.com/Media-Composer-Effects-Essentials-Learning/dp/1133788882/ref=pd_bxgy_b_img_y

Course Description:

This class serves as an introduction to the technical and aesthetic aspects of non-linear digital video editing on AVID editing software.  Students will go from little or no experience in non-linear editing to being comfortable with some of the advanced features of the program.  In addition, the course will also address motion picture editing theories that are not bound to time or specific editing technology.

Course Goals:

Upon successful completion of the course, students will be expected to have an intermediate to advanced knowledge of how to technically and artfully edit videos on AVID.

Student Learning Outcomes:

Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:

  1. Edit footage acquired from a variety of sources
  2. Take advantage of some advanced editing features
  3. Tell a good story using images and audio

Instructional Methods:

This course will be taught through lectures, class activities and editing outside of class.

Building Access:

Access to the Journalism computer lab is virtually 24/7 with your Polar Express card.  As long as you can get into the Bunnell Building, you can access the lab.  You can remain in the lab after the building has closed.  The lab is not open to students when classes are meeting in the lab.  Those times will be posted on the lab door.  If you are in the lab when a class is about to begin, you will be asked to leave.  Note that some classes meet only occasionally in the lab and professors do their best to post those times on the door in advance of the class meeting time.

Bunnell Building hours vary.  Note that sometimes the south entrance by the Journalism Department is locked while one or both of the north entrances by the flags are open, so try the other doors if you cannot enter through the south entrance.

Expectations of Students:

  1. Push yourself to do your best work for this class.  If you don’t do your best work now, when will you do it?  Remember who writes your recommendation letters.
  2. Arrive to class on time.  Tardiness will result in a reduced grade (see “Attendance/Tardiness” below) and may prevent you from taking quizzes.
  3. Make sure your cell phones are on silent.
  4. Laptops are allowed in class, however I reserve the right to close your laptop if I suspect you are using it for non-class-related purposes regardless of whether or not I have evidence to support that suspicion.
  5. Come to class prepared, having completed the required homework and ready to participate in class discussions.
  6. Attend every class.  Unexcused absences will results in a reduced grade (see “Attendance/Tardiness” below).
  7. Participate in every class.
  8. Check your Blackboard e-mail every weekday.
  9. Respect your peers.  Support and encourage them and offer constructive criticism of their projects.
  10. Ask questions during or after class when you do not understand something or are having a problem.  If you don’t understand something, chances are at least some of your peers don’t understand it either.
  11. Take notes.
  12. If you are having a problem outside of class that is affecting your ability to perform in this class, please let me know as soon as you can.  You do not need to disclose the details of your situation.  Although doing well in college is very important and you need to work hard, do not let the pressure overwhelm you.  Your personal health and sanity are more important than good marks.  I consider myself a very easy person to talk to and encourage you to come speak to me if you need to discuss issues course-related or otherwise.

Grading:

Attendance/Tardiness: 20%

 

“Eighty percent of success is showing up.”

—Woody Allen

 

Each unexcused absence in this class will reduce your final grade.  If you have six or more unexcused absences, then you will automatically fail the course REGARDLESS of if your other grades were high enough to allow you to pass the course.

Excused absences will not affect your attendance grade (though you will lose the extra credit).  An excused absence is when you have notified me before class that you will not be able to make it to class for a valid reason: sick, personal emergency, etc.  “I’m too busy” or “I can’t find a ride to class” are not valid reasons for missing class.

You must notify me BEFORE class for an absence to be excused.  Telling me hours or days later why you missed class will not excuse the absence.  Treat this class like a job.  If you don’t show up to work and don’t call in, you get fired.  The only exception to this rule is that I will accept a doctor’s note up to a week after you return to class as an excuse for an absence.

Students who have zero absences (excused or unexcused) and no tardies will receive extra credit in their final grade.  Any absence or tardy for any reason will remove this extra credit, unless you have earned a free tardy which I give out on occasion.

Make sure to contact me after an absence to see what announcements or assignments you missed.  I recommend you ask a fellow student for a copy of their notes from that class to see what material we covered.

“Twenty percent of success is showing up…on time.”

—Robert Prince

Because coming late to class disrupts class, at times can force us to wait for you, and can mean missing important announcements, every three times you arrive late to class I will add one absence to your grade.  Redefine “on time” to class in your mind to mean “five minutes early.”  If you do arrive to class late, make sure to see me after class to make sure I mark you as present and let you know about any announcements I may have made that day.  If you forget to tell me you were late for class, you will receive an absence.

Here is how your absences will affect your final grade:

0 Absences (and zero tardies) = 110% for attendance (equals +2% extra credit)

Unexcused Absence = -10% from attendance grade per each

6+ Unexcused Absences = Automatically fail the course

Notes: 10%

You are required to take notes in this class.  Every two weeks I will ask to see everyone’s notes from the past lectures.  For each lecture I expect to see at least ½ page of notes.

Pop Quizzes: 5%

Cover the material in the course lectures.  If you miss a pop quiz, it can only be made up if your absence was excused and it must be made up before you return to class.  If you are late to class the day of a pop quiz, you cannot take it unless your tardy was excused.

Exams (2): 15% Each

Cover the material in the lectures.  They are not cumulative.

Basic Editing Assignment: 10%

Assemble a video that demonstrates your ability to do basic editing in AVID.

Final Project:  25%

            This will be a short video that demonstrates proficiency with the aesthetics and technology of non-linear editing.

 

Grading Guidelines:

A:  An honor grade that indicates originality and independent work, mastery of the subject and the satisfactory completion of more work than is regularly required.  To get an “A,” students in my classes need to impress me with the work they’ve done on an assignment and go well beyond what I asked for in the assignment.

94%-100% = A, 90%-93% = A-

 

B:  Indicates outstanding ability above the average level of performance.  To get a “B,” students in my classes need to do exactly what I asked for in the assignment and do it well.

87%-89% = B+, 84%-86% = B, 80%-83% = B-

 

IMPORTANT GRADING POLICY INFORMATION

 

Implications of the Grade of ‘C’ (and below) for letter-graded

undergraduate courses which are:

 

–Prerequisites for other courses, or

–Degree major requirements, or

–Core courses

 

C+ (2.3): Satisfactory to Fair: satisfactory level of performance, with some

mastery of material.

C (2.0): Average: satisfactory level of performance and level of competency

in the subject. A minimum grade of ‘C’ (2.0) is required for all

prerequisites and major courses.

C- (1.7): Barely satisfactory: Minimum grade required for all Core (X)

Courses. A grade of C- (1.7) in a class which is a prerequisite for another

class or in a class required for a student’s major will result in the

student being required to retake the class.

77%-79% = C+, 74%-76% = C, 70%-73% = C-

 

D+ (1.3); D (1.0); D- (0.7): Below Average: Fair to poor level of competency

in the subject matter.  A grade of D+, D or D- in a Core (X) class will

automatically require the student to retake the class to receive core

credit, starting Fall 2011.

67%-69% = D+, 64%-66% = D, 60%-63% = D-

 

F:  Indicates failure to meet lowest standards.  To get an “F,” students in my classes will have missed major elements of the assignment and/or the content will be all—or nearly all—poor quality.

0%-59% = F

 

For additional grading policy information, see the UAF Catalog.

 

Course Policies:

Late work or quizzes will be docked 15% plus an additional 15% for each class period that elapses after the due date.  Backup your work, reserve video equipment and work ahead of deadlines so you can avoid these problems.  If you miss the midterm exam, you will need documentation proving the legitimacy of your absence to avoid the 15% grade reduction.

 

Projects can be redone only if there is sufficient evidence that a requirement(s) of the assignment was described in a way that a reasonable adult would find confusing or ambiguous and that unclear element of the assignment directly related to the student’s reduced grade.  Not paying attention to the requirements of the assignment is not an excuse for doing the assignment improperly.

 

All work must comply with the University of Alaska Fairbanks policies on student conduct found online at www.uaf.edu/catalog/current/academics/regs3.html.

All work must be original productions for this course and plagiarism will result in a zero for the assignment, a possible F for the class, and potentially further academic discipline.  Ignorance of what it means to plagiarize will not be an excuse from punishment.  If you have questions about plagiarism, contact me before you hand in the assignment.

 

I will make reasonable accommodations for individuals with documented disabilities. Notify me within the first two weeks of the semester if you have any special needs.

 

Support Services:

I will make reasonable accommodations for individuals with documented disabilities, for example, providing an in-class note taker, providing a quiet and solitary test-taking environment, or other reasonable accommodations in line with your documented needs.  Disability services will provide you with documentary indicating what kind of assistance you need and, based on that evidence, I will implement that assistance to the best of my abilities. Notify me within the first two weeks of the semester if you have any special needs.

 

The departments listed below provide resources for students with disabilities, help writing papers, and help preparing for class presentations:

 

Disability Services

e-mail. fydso@uaf.edu

tel. 907-474-5655

tty. 907-474-1827

Whitaker Building Room 208

www.uaf.edu/disability

 

About Disability Services

At UAF Disability Services, our goal is to provide UAF students with access to academic classes and course materials through an interactive accommodation process.

UAF Disability Services provides accommodations to students on the Fairbanks campus as well as on the Bristol Bay, Chukchi, Interior Aleutians, Kuskokwim, Northwest, Community Technical College (CTC), Center For Distance Education (CDE), and College for Rural and Community Development (CRCD) campuses.

Students using community campuses or distance learning programs should contact Disability Services via telephone, fax, e-mail, U.S. postal mail, or in person to request and arrange for accommodations.

We enjoy supporting individuality, promoting independence and celebrating graduations.

 

Writing Center

Dept. Of English

801 Gruening Bldg.

(907) 474-7193

faengl@uaf.edu

 

The Writing Center is a student-staffed, student-oriented service of the English Department. Our tutors, English Department teaching assistants and a few outstanding undergraduate students, can assist you in all phases of the writing process, including the following:

 

  • Brainstorming and generating topics
  • Organizing ideas
  • Developing research strategies
  • Use of citation styles — MLA, APA, and Chicago
  • Editing for clarity and correctness

 

We collaborate with each student on a one-to-one basis, and we will work with students at any phase of the writing process — planning, drafting, revising. We can also help writers discover ways of improving grammar, mechanics, and punctuation.

Tutorials. Tutorial appointments at the Writing Center are 30 minutes long, and we encourage you to call or stop by to make an appointment. Walk-in sessions are often available, but in the last half of the semester we are often booked.

Fax Tutoring. We provide a fax tutoring service for students enrolled in the College of Rural and Community Development (CRCD). Students can fax their papers to us (1-800-478-5246), and they will have a telephone tutorial with a tutor at a designated time. We offer fax tutorials Monday through Thursday evenings and Sunday afternoons. Phone the Writing Center (907/474-5314) to make an appointment.

 

Speaking Center

Dept. of Communication

507 Greuning Bldg.

(907) 474-5470

fyspeak@uaf.edu

What is the Speaking Center?

The Speaking Center is a student-oriented service provided to facilitate preparing public presentations. Students can recieve coaching in refining their presentation topic, in organizing their presentation effectively, and in practicing their presentation. The Center makes it possible to digitally record and to watch one’s practice presentation, receiving constructive feed back from a Speaking Center coach.

 

Who can use the Speaking Center?

The Speaking center is available to all students currently enrolled at UAF or at TVC.

 

Scheduling Procedures

Please call 474-5470 or e-mail fyspeak@gmail.com to schedule an appointment at the Speaking Center. Walk-ins are welcome, however, students can be served only if there are openings.

Individuals may schedule the Center’s practice room daily any time prior to Speaking Center hours.

 

 

About Your Professor:

I grew up in East Lansing, Michigan and graduated from Calvin College with a B.A. in Telecommunications.  After college I went to work in Chicago for Kurtis Productions, producers of the Investigative Reports series on A&E.  I then was hired as a Producer/Director for the PBS affiliate in Grand Rapids, Michigan where I directed live and pre-recorded programs for local broadcast.  In 2000 I went back to Calvin to run the video production department.  While working there, I earned my M.A. from Michigan State University in Telecommunication, Information Studies and Media.

In 2005 I moved to Fairbanks to teach video production and documentary filmmaking in the Journalism Department at the University of Alaska Fairbanks.

 

Want more video classes?  Check these out:

 

JRN F280 Video Storytelling (h)

3 Credits / Offered Fall / Prof. Prince

Basics of digital video production technology, composition, audio, lighting and editing as it relates to primarily non-fiction filmmaking. Students will conclude the course by producing their own short videos. Special fees apply. (Cross-listed with FLM F280.) (3+0)

 

JRN/FLM F292 Hands on Documentary Production

3 Credits / Maymester / Prof. Prince

Production of a short video documentary from start to finish on a subject to be announced. The class will work collectively to produce the film. Students will have the opportunity to work in various positions from director, producer, camera operator, sound, editing, etc. Special fees apply.  (Cross-listed with FLM F290.) (3+0)

 

JRN F480 Documentary Filmmaking (h)
3 Credits / Offered Spring / Prof. Prince
Basics of hands-on documentary filmmaking techniques, including preproduction, production and postproduction. Different documentary filmmaking directing styles and the process of distributing a documentary. Each student will produce a short documentary as the capstone of the course. Special fees apply. Prerequisites: JRN F280 or permission of instructor. (3+0)

 

 

How do I log on to Journalism Lab Computers?

  • If you’re sitting at the logon screen, click “Other” to login.
  • If “Other” is unavailable, wait 10-15 seconds and it will pop up.
  • Use your UA Credentials (UA Username & password) to log in.
  • You will be prompted to enter your UA Credentials again to mount your Lab Shares –  you can choose to do this or “cancel”.

“UA Credentials”? What’s that?

  • Your UA Username & password are used for a variety of services at UAF, including UAF email through Gmail, Blackboard & ELMO.
  • Not sure of your UA Credentials?  At the computer logon screen, use the “JRNLABS” account to log in.  Your instructor can provide you with the password.  This is a shared account and does not provide the privacy of your individual account BUT it provides you with the exact same access to all programs.  From here, use an Internet Browser to visit  https://elmo.alaska.edu to reset your password or Blackboard / UAF Email to “check” that the password you’re using is correct.
  • DO NOT continue to “guess” the password.  You will lock yourself out of your accounts which requires OIT to reset.  In most cases when students can’t login, it’s because they’ve forgotten their password is case sensitive or they’ve forgotten the password altogether.
  • Are you logged into your UA account but it looks different than other students? Contact Jason Lazarus in Bun 114 or at 474-6020.

“Lab Shares”? What’s that?

  • All UAF students have paid a Technology Fee that gives them limited shared space that’s accessible from all OIT labs on campus – and now that same space is accessible in Journalism Labs.
  • Are your UA Credentials not working for the Lab Shares logon?  Click “Cancel” and continue – you’ll still be able to use the computer.  Contact Jason Lazarus in Bun 114 or at 474-6020 for additional assistance.
  • Lab Shares provides you with space to save files and have them accessible throughout all lab machines – saving on the desktop ONLY saves on that specific computer’s desktop.
  • When mounted, Lab Shares will be accessible from the right side of your dock.

Journalism “ASIP” Server?

  • This is where you’ll save your assignments so your instructor can grade your class projects.  This is shared Server space where anyone can see your files – so only save project material – not sensitive information!
  • Once you’re logged on and you’ve got a file you need to turn in for an assignment, your instructor will provide you with logon information for a specific folder for your class – click on “ASIP” (located on the right side of your dock) and use that login information.   Once you’ve logged on, you’ll be able to find “News-FS” (or “Photo-FS” or “Art-FS, depending on your logon info) on the left side of any finder window.
  • If you’ve got files you want to work on that are on the server, ALWAYS click-and-drag them to the desktop and THEN open them.  Once done, save & click & drag them back onto the server.  This insures you’re working LOCALLY – which is much faster and doesn’t bog down the computer.

As always, Journalism is not responsible for lost files on Lab Shares, ASIP or individual computers.  Every student is expected to back up their own data on thumbdrives, USB hard drives or CD/DVDs.

Questions?  Contact Jason Lazarus in Room 114, or 474-6020, for further assistance!

 

DIGITAL VIDEO EDITING:

Tentative Course Schedule

 

 

Date: Subject: Assignment Due:

WEEK 1

 INtroduction to the course

WEEK 2

 EXPLORING THE INTERFACE & PREPARING TO EDIT

EDITING ESSENTIALS

CHAPTER 1
(CONT’D)

WEEK 3

 (CONT’D)

 

 ASSEMBLING A BASIC SEQUENCE

EDITING ESSENTIALS

CHAPTER 2

WEEK 4

 (CONT’D)
(CONT’D)

WEEK 5

 INGESTING FILE-BASED MEDIA

EDITING ESSENTIALS

CHAPTER 3

 

 MANUAL TIMELINE EDITING

EDITING ESSENTIALS

CHAPTER 4

WEEK 6

 (CONT’D)
REFINING THE EDIT

EDITING ESSENTIALS

CHAPTER 5

WEEK 7

 (CONT’D)

 

 

 REFINING & MIXING AUDIO

EDITING ESSENTIALS

CHAPTER 6

WEEK 8

 CUSTOMIZING MEDIA COMPOSER

EDITING ESSENTIALS

CHAPTER 7
INTRODUCTION TO MULTICAMERA EDITING

EDITING ESSENTIALS

CHAPTER 8

WEEK 9

 SPRING BREAK

 

WEEK 10

 (cont’d)
CREATING QUICK TITLES & BASIC TRANSITIONS

EDITING ESSENTIALS

CHAPTER 9

WEEK 11

 (cont’d)

 

 PrePARING FOR OUTPUT AND EXPORTING A FILE

EDITING ESSENTIALS

CHAPTER 10

WEEK 12

 IN CLASS EDITING

 
IN CLASS EDITING

WEEK 13

 VIEW PROJECTS

ASSIGNMENT #1:

BASIC EDITING

 

 EXAM #1: avid Editing essentials

WEEK 14

 INTRO TO AUDIO EFFECTS

EFFECTS ESSENTIALS

CHAPTER 1
INTRO TO VIDEO EFFECTS

EFFECTS ESSENTIALS

CHAPTER 2

WEEK 15

 CORRECTIVE EFFECTS

EFFECTS ESSENTIALS

CHAPTER 3

 

 RETIMING

EFFECTS ESSENTIALS

CHAPTER 4

WEEK 16

 COLOR TREATING & CORRECTING

EFFECTS ESSENTIALS

CHAPTER 5

 

 EXAM #2: AVID EFFECTS ESSENTIALS

 

FINAL EXAM

 3:15 – 5:15 p.m., Thursday, May 9

Final Project

 

251 Television Production

JRN/FLM F251 F01 TELEVISION PRODUCTION

FALL 2011BUNNELL 122
MON/WED/FRI: 2:15PM-3:15PM
Prof. Robert Prince
Office: Bunnell 105C
E-mail: rob.prince@alaska.edu
Recommended (not required) Reading:
Television Production Handbook, 10th Ed. by Herbert Zettl
Course Description:
Television studio production, floor directing, audio, camera, staging, lighting and switching.
Course Goals:
Upon successful completion of the course, students will be expected to have a working knowledge of how to technically produce a television newscast from start to finish.
Student Learning Outcomes:
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
1. Develop intermediate directing skills
2. Master the terms and directions used in studio production
3. Develop intermediate skills in all the studio production positions
Instructional Methods:
This course will be taught through lectures, class activities, and studio production work.
Journalism Lab Policies:
Welcome to the Journalism Labs! The following is a list of tips and guidelines for lab usage to insure that your experience in any of our labs goes smoothly and is highly productive. If you have any questions at all about the following, please either ask your instructor or our Computer Tech, Jason, available at Bunnell 102b, 474-6020 or fyjbtech@uaf.edu.
• First note that you’re working on Macintosh computers – if you’re not used to these types of computers, have limited computing skills, or are unfamiliar with OS X (the operating system), please inform the instructor of this so that extra help can be dispensed when needed.
• Each of the computers in our three labs are password protected with different passwords for each lab – Please request passwords from your instructor only. Do not give out these passwords to anyone.
• Many of you will opt to save your files on Thumbdrives (USB drives). These work great for
saving and transporting your work between home and school. But, unlike PC’s, Macs expect you to “eject” or “unmount’ your thumbdrive before you unattach it from your computer. Do so by dragging your thumbdrive from the desktop to the trash bin (which will change to an “eject” symbol). Not doing this can cause you to lose your information and possibly ruin the thumbdrive.
• Save and save often! You will be able to not only save on your computer but have several
other options to save your files – always use the default (saving to your computer) as well as one of the following secondary methods to insure you don’t lose your files. Your instructor will give you access to the Journalism file server which can be used for all your files (short of large video files and personal files). You can also use email to send files to yourself or use thumbdrives to carry your files home with you. Additionally, Lab 128 and 106 are fully equipped with CD/DVD burners and 126 has several CD/DVD burners as well. At any time your computer could crash and your files could be lost – save in at least one more location! Additionally, this insures that if someone is using “your” computer, you don’t have to wait for them to get off of it.
• New for Fall 2006, any student files meant to be saved at the end of class should be dragged and dropped onto the server as an additional place to save them– whenever you login to the computer, it’ll automatically mount the server shared drive, please make use of it! At any time during the semester, computers may fail and you may loose your files – keep two copies of them at all times – one on your computer and one on the server. Don’t forget to update these server files whenever you change the original! This, of coarse due to the size, does not apply to video students. Video students are expected to burn their work to DVD, transfer it to their own external hard drive or one provided by the department, or finish any projects before Friday – each Friday all the computers in 106 will be wiped.
• When you use the Journalism file server do NOT open your files directly off of the server!
Click and drag any of your files onto the desktop of the computer you are currently working on – not doing so bogs down the server and slows your work down too! When finished be sure to overwrite the old file on the server with the new version on your computer’s desktop!
• The files on your server may be available from your home computer – but do not expect that they will be. Due to security settings by OIT, your home computer may or may not be able to access files on the server from home. Consider this an additional place to save while at home, not a primary way to access your files.
• Do not abuse the computers. DCC as well as the Journalism Department monitors computer usage and will report improper use of departmental equipment. Treat these computers as if someone is watching your usage – because they are! Additionally, do not damage, hit, or take your frustrations out on any of our equipment. If you’re getting frustrated – walk away and take a break.
• Don’t leave any personal items in the labs after class. Once or twice a week each lab will be
cleaned and all personal items will be thrown away or placed in a lost and found.
• No food/drinks are allowed in 126 or 128. For Lab 106, please try to limit your food to the
tables.
• We have film scanners, flatbed scanners, DV/miniDV Decks, Minidisc Recorders and DV
Cameras available in our labs as well as for checkout. Please talk to your instructor about access to
any of these if you need them for a class project. Check out will be posted in the Journalism Office.
• Do not access highly personal items on these computers such as bank accounts and anything
dealing with your social security number. We have seen far too many people leave access to their
bank accounts open on lab machines far after they’ve left the room. Be vigilant!
• Most of all if you’re having any problems talk to your instructor or our Computer Tech, Jason.
We’re all more than willing to help you out with any problem! Jason is available quite a bit during
normal office hours – please consult his schedule on his door.
Building Access:
Access to the Journalism computer lab is virtually 24/7 with your Polar Express card. As long as you
can get into the Bunnell Building, you can access the lab. You can remain in the lab after the building
has closed. The lab is not open to students when classes are meeting in the lab. Those times will be
posted on the lab door. If you are in the lab when a class is about to begin, you will be asked to leave.
Note that some classes meet only occasionally in the lab and professors do their best to post those
times on the door in advance of the class meeting time.
Bunnell Building hours vary. Note that sometimes the south entrance by the Journalism Department
is locked while one or both of the north entrances are open, so try the other doors if you cannot enter
through the south entrance.
Expectations of Students:
1. Push yourself to do your best work for this class. If you don’t do your best work now, when will
you do it?
2. Arrive to class on time. Tardiness will result in a reduced grade (see “Attendance/Tardiness”
below).
3. Make sure your cell phones are OFF.
4. Laptops are allowed in class, however I reserve the right to close your laptop if I suspect you are
using it for non-class-related purposes regardless of whether or not I have evidence to support that
suspicion.
5. Come to class prepared, having completed the required homework and ready to participate in class
discussions.
6. Attend every class. Unexcused absences will results in a reduced grade (see
“Attendance/Tardiness” below).
7. Participate in every class.
8. Check your Blackboard e-mail every weekday.
9. Respect your peers. Support and encourage them and offer constructive criticism of their projects.
10. Ask questions during or after class when you do not understand something or are having a
problem. If you don’t understand something, chances are at least some of your peers don’t
understand it either.
11. If you are having a problem outside of class that is affecting your ability to perform in this class,
please let me know as soon as you can. You do not need to disclose the details of your situation.
Although doing well in college is very important and you need to work hard, do not let the
pressure overwhelm you. Your personal health and sanity are more important than good marks. I
consider myself a very easy person to talk to and encourage you to come speak to me if you need
to discuss issues course-related or otherwise.
Grading:
Attendance/Tardiness: 20%
I will allow you two unexcused absences for the entire semester before I begin lowering your
final grade with each additional absence. Each absence after the second will significantly reduce your
final grade. If you miss ten or more classes with no official documentation proving your absences
were legitimate, then you will fail the course REGARDLESS of if your other grades were high
enough to allow you to pass the course.
An excused absence is when you have notified me before class that you will not be able to
make it to class for a valid reason: sick, car trouble, family business, etc. You must notify me
BEFORE class for an absence to be excused. Telling me hours or days later why you missed class
will not excuse the absence. Treat this class like a job. If you don’t show up to work and don’t call in
beforehand, you get fired. The only exception to this rule is that I will accept a doctor’s note up to a
week after you return to class as an excuse for an absence.
Students who have zero absences (excused or unexcused) and no tardiness will receive 2%
extra credit in their final grade. An absence or tardy for any reason will remove this extra credit from
your final grade.
Although your absence from class may not directly count against your grade, any assignments
due that day that you did not turn in will still count against your grade. Make sure to contact me after
an absence to see what announcements or assignments you missed. I recommend you ask a fellow
student for a copy of their notes from that class to see what material we covered.
Because coming late to class disrupts class, at times forces us to wait for you, and can mean
missing important announcements, every three times you arrive to class late I will add one absence to
your grade. Redefine “on time” to class in your mind to mean “five minutes early.” If you do arrive
to class late, make sure to see me after class to make sure I mark you as present and let you know
about any announcements I may have made that day.
Here is how your unexcused absences will affect your final grade:
0 Absences (and zero tardiness) = 110% for attendance (equals +2% extra credit)
1-2 Unexcused Absences = No deduction from your attendance grade
3rd Unexcused Absences = 85% for attendance grade
4th Unexcused Absences = 70% for attendance grade
5th Unexcused Absences = 55% for attendance grade
6th Unexcused Absences = 40% for attendance grade
7th Unexcused Absences = 25% for attendance grade
8th Unexcused Absences = 10% for attendance grade
9th Unexcused Absences = 0% for attendance grade
10+ Unexcused Absences = Automatically fail the course
Midterm Exam: 20%
Multiple-choice, short answer, essay. Covers material from the lectures and exercises.
Quizzes: 5%
Cover material from recent lectures and exercises.
Interview Shoot 1: 5%
A studio shoot based on filming an interview.
Interview Shoot 2: 5%
A studio shoot based on filming an interview.
VO Package: 5%
A short voiceover package for the newscast.
News Shoot 1: 5%
A studio news shoot.
News Shoot 2: 10%
A studio news shoot.
News Shoot 3: 10%
A studio news shoot.
Final Newscast Evaluation: 15%
A final news shoot in which the class works as a whole to pull off a perfect newscast.
Grading Guidelines:
A: An honor grade that indicates originality and independent work, mastery of the subject and the
satisfactory completion of more work than was regularly required. To get an “A,” students in my
classes need to impress me with the work they’ve done on an assignment and go beyond what I asked
for in the assignment.
94%-100% = A, 90%-93% = AB:
Indicates outstanding ability above the average level of performance. To get a “B,” students in my
classes need to do exactly what I asked for in the assignment and do it well.
87%-89% = B+, 84%-86% = B, 80%-83% = BIMPORTANT
GRADING POLICY INFORMATION
Implications of the Grade of ‘C’ (and below) for letter-graded
undergraduate courses which are:
–Prerequisites for other courses, or
–Degree major requirements, or
–Core courses
C+ (2.3): Satisfactory to Fair: satisfactory level of performance, with some
mastery of material.
C (2.0): Average: satisfactory level of performance and level of competency
in the subject. A minimum grade of ‘C’ (2.0) is required for all
prerequisites and major courses.
C- (1.7): Barely satisfactory: Minimum grade required for all Core (X)
Courses. A grade of C- (1.7) in a class which is a prerequisite for another
class or in a class required for a student’s major will result in the
student being required to retake the class.
77%-79% = C+, 74%-76% = C, 70%-73% = CD+
(1.3); D (1.0); D- (0.7): Below Average: Fair to poor level of competency
in the subject matter. A grade of D+, D or D- in a Core (X) class will
automatically require the student to retake the class to receive core
credit, starting Fall 2011.
67%-69% = D+, 64%-66% = D, 60%-63% = DF:
Indicates failure to meet lowest standards. To get an “F,” students in my classes will have missed
several major elements of the assignment and the content will be all—or nearly all—poor quality.
0%-59% = F
For additional grading policy information see the UAF Catalog, pages 46-50.
Course Policies:
Late work or quizzes will be docked 15% plus an additional 15% for each class period it is not turned
in after the due date. Backup your work and work ahead of deadlines so you can avoid these
problems. If you miss the midterm exam, you will need documentation proving the legitimacy of
your absence to avoid the 15% grade reduction.
Projects can be redone only if there is sufficient evidence that a requirement(s) of the assignment was
described in a way that a reasonable adult would find confusing or ambiguous and that unclear
element of the assignment directly related to the student’s reduced grade.
All work must comply with the University of Alaska Fairbanks policies on student conduct found
online at www.uaf.edu/catalog/current/academics/regs3.html.
All work must be original productions for this course and plagiarism will result in a zero for the
assignment, a possible F for the class, and potentially further academic discipline. Ignorance of what
it means to plagiarize will not be an excuse from punishment. If you have questions about plagiarism,
contact me before you hand in the assignment.
Support Services:
I will make reasonable accommodations for individuals with documented disabilities. Notify me
within the first two weeks of the semester if you have any special needs.
The departments listed below provide resources for students with disabilities, help writing papers, and
help preparing for class presentations:
Disability Services
e-mail. fydso@uaf.edu
tel. 907-474-5655
tty. 907-474-1827
Whitaker Building Room
208
www.uaf.edu/disability
Writing Center
Dept. Of English
801 Gruening Bldg.
(907) 474-7193
faengl@uaf.edu
Speaking Center
Dept. of Communication
507 Greuning Bldg.
(907) 474-5470
fyspeak@uaf.edu
About Your Professor:
I grew up in East Lansing, Michigan and graduated from Calvin College with a B.A. in
Telecommunications. After college I went to work in Chicago for Kurtis Productions, producers of
the Investigative Reports series on A&E. I then was hired as a Producer/Director for the PBS affiliate
in Grand Rapids, Michigan where I directed live and pre-recorded programs for local broadcast. In
2000 I went back to Calvin to run the video production department. While working there I earned my
M.A. from Michigan State University in Telecommunication, Information Studies and Media.
In 2005 I moved to Fairbanks to teach video production and documentary filmmaking in the
Journalism Department at the University of Alaska Fairbanks.
Want more video classes? Check these out:
JRN F280 Video Storytelling (h)
3 Credits / Offered Fall / Prof. Prince
Basics of digital video production technology, composition, audio, lighting and editing as it relates to
primarily non-fiction filmmaking. Students will conclude the course by producing their own short
videos. Special fees apply. (Cross-listed with FLM F280.) (3+0)
JRN F290 Digital Video Editing
3 Credits / Offered As Demand Warrants / Prof. Prince
Introduction to the technical and aesthetic aspects of non-linear digital video editing. Students will go
from little or no experience in non-linear editing to being comfortable with some of the advanced
editing techniques. Address motion picture editing theories that are not bound to time or specific
editing technology. Special fees apply. (Cross-listed with FLM F290.) (3+0)
JRN F453 O Television News Reporting
3 Credits / Offered Spring / Prof. Prince
Electronic news gathering using videotape equipment, scriptwriting, location sound recording,
interview techniques, editing, videography and other aspects of field news reporting. Special fees
apply. Prerequisites: COMM F131X or COMM F141X; JRN F451; JRN F452. JRN F452 may be
taken concurrently with JRN F453. (2+2)
JRN F480 Documentary Filmmaking (h)
3 Credits / Offered Spring / Prof. Prince
Basics of hands-on documentary filmmaking techniques, including preproduction, production and
postproduction. Different documentary filmmaking directing styles and the process of distributing a
documentary. Each student will produce a short documentary as the capstone of the course. Special
fees apply. (3+0)
TELEVISION PRODUCTION: TENTATIVE COURSE SCHEDULE
DATE: SUBJECT: NOTES:
SEPT. 2 INTRODUCTION TO THE COURSE
SEPT. 5 LABOR DAY—NO CLASSES
SEPT. 7 STUDIO POSITIONS
SEPT. 9 THE CAMERA MEET IN MINOR STUDIO
SEPT. 12 DIRECTING TERMS
SEPT. 14 THE SWITCHER MEET IN MINOR STUDIO
SEPT. 16 STUDIO SHOOT MEET IN MINOR STUDIO
SEPT. 19 AUDIO MEET IN MINOR STUDIO
SEPT. 21 AUDIO CONTINUED MEET IN MINOR STUDIO
SEPT. 23 STUDIO SHOOT MEET IN MINOR STUDIO
SEPT. 26 DIRECTING
SEPT. 28 INTERVIEW #1 REHERSAL MEET IN MINOR STUDIO
SEPT. 30 INTERVIEW SHOOT #1 MEET IN MINOR STUDIO
INTERVIEW #1 GRADED
OCT. 3 INTERVIEW TECHNIQUES
OCT. 5 INTERVIEW #2 REHERSAL MEET IN MINOR STUDIO
OCT. 7 INTERVIEW SHOOT #2 MEET IN MINOR STUDIO
INTERVIEW #2 GRADED
OCT. 10 TELEPROMPTER MEET IN MINOR STUDIO
OCT. 12 RUNDOWNS
OCT. 14 STUDIO SHOOT MEET IN MINOR STUDIO
OCT. 17 VTR’S & CCU’S
OCT. 19 REVIEW FOR MIDTERM
OCT. 21 MIDTERM EXAM
OCT. 24 FIELD PRODUCTION
OCT. 26 FIELD PRODUCTION EXERCISE
OCT. 28 VIEW RAW VO FOOTAGE VO PACKAGE RAW
OCT. 31 INTRODUCTION TO DIGITAL VIDEO EDITING
NOV. 2 EDITING CONTINUED
NOV. 4 IN CLASS EDITING PERIOD
NOV. 7 STUDIO NEWS SHOOT REHEARSAL MEET IN MINOR STUDIO
NOV. 9 STUDIO NEWS SHOOT REHEARSAL MEET IN MINOR STUDIO
NOV. 11 STUDIO NEWS SHOOT #1 MEET IN MINOR STUDIO
NEWS SHOOT #1 GRADED
NOV. 14 VIEW PACKAGES VO PACKAGE
NOV. 16 STUDIO NEWS SHOOT REHEARSAL MEET IN MINOR STUDIO
NOV. 18 STUDIO NEWS SHOOT #2 MEET IN MINOR STUDIO
NEWS SHOOT #2 GRADED
NOV. 21 PRODUCING
NOV. 23 VIDEO CABLES / SIGNALS
NOV. 25 THANKSGIVING BREAK—NO CLASS
NOV. 28 INTERVIEWING
NOV. 30 STUDIO NEWS SHOOT REHEARSAL MEET IN MINOR STUDIO
DEC. 2 STUDIO NEWS SHOOT #3 MEET IN MINOR STUDIO
NEWS SHOOT #3 GRADED
DEC. 5 IN CLASS EDITING PERIOD
DEC. 7 IN CLASS EDITING PERIOD
DEC. 9 VIEW FINAL PACKAGES FINAL PACKAGE DUE
DEC. 12 REHEARSE FINAL NEWS SHOOT MEET IN MINOR STUDIO
DEC. 16 1:00PM – 3:00PM FINAL NEWS SHOOT MEET IN MINOR STUDIO

280 Video Storytelling

JRN/FLM F280 F01

Video Storytelling

Fall 2012

Bunnell 126

tuesday/thursday 11:30am-1:00pm

Prof. Robert Prince

Office: Bunnell 105C

Email: rob.prince@alaska.edu

 Required Reading:

Visual Storytelling, Osgood & Hinshaw, 2009

Course Description:

JRN F280 Video Storytelling (h)

3 Credits
Offered Fall

Basics of digital video production technology, composition, audio, lighting and editing as it relates to primarily non-fiction filmmaking. Students will conclude the course by producing their own short videos. Special fees apply. Cross-listed with FLM F280. (3+0)

Course Goals:

Upon successful completion of the course, students will be expected to have a basic knowledge of how to technically and artfully produce short, non-fiction videos.

Student Learning Outcomes:

Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:

  1. Capture attractive video images with useable audio
  2. Do basic non-linear editing in Final Cut Xpress
  3. Tell a good story using moving images and audio

Instructional Methods:

This course will be taught through lectures, class activities, and field production work.

 

Expectations of Students:

  1. Push yourself to do your best work for this class.  If you don’t do your best work now, when will you do it?  Remember who writes your recommendation letters.
  2. Arrive to class on time.  Tardiness will result in a reduced grade (see “Attendance/Tardiness” below) and may prevent you from taking quizzes.
  3. Make sure your cell phones are on silent.
  4. Laptops are allowed in class, however I reserve the right to close your laptop if I suspect you are using it for non-class-related purposes regardless of whether or not I have evidence to support that suspicion.
  5. Come to class prepared, having completed the required homework and ready to participate in class discussions.
  6. Attend every class.  Unexcused absences will results in a reduced grade (see “Attendance/Tardiness” below).
  7. Participate in every class.
  8. Check your Blackboard e-mail every weekday.
  9. Respect your peers.  Support and encourage them and offer constructive criticism of their projects.
  10. Ask questions during or after class when you do not understand something or are having a problem.  If you don’t understand something, chances are at least some of your peers don’t understand it either.
  11. Take notes.
  12. If you are having a problem outside of class that is affecting your ability to perform in this class, please let me know as soon as you can.  You do not need to disclose the details of your situation.  Although doing well in college is very important and you need to work hard, do not let the pressure overwhelm you.  Your personal health and sanity are more important than good marks.  I consider myself a very easy person to talk to and encourage you to come speak to me if you need to discuss issues course-related or otherwise.

 

Equipment Policies

Productions for this class will be all digital using Macs for the editing in this class. We will use Panasonic AG-HMC40 HD cameras for recording.  Access to the computers is on a first come, first serve basis.  Access to the editing room is available virtually 24-7.  You will need permission from us to have security let you in the building during the very late evening/holidays.

 

Cameras must be checked out and returned through the student equipment manager, the department administrator, Jason Lazarus or Robert Prince.  The Monday-Friday hours when you can do that will be announced as soon as possible.  We recommend that you reserve equipment well in advance of when you need it.  Cameras can be checked out for only one evening or the weekend. You have to sign a waiver before you can check out any equipment.  Cameras and editing equipment are also available for check out through the Rasmuson library.

The hard drives on the lab computers will be erased every Friday afternoon to prevent the buildup of excessive files on the drives.  If you need an exception from this, make sure to let Jason Lazarus or me know.

Building Access:

Access to the Journalism computer lab is virtually 24/7 with your Polar Express card.  As long as you can get into the Bunnell Building, you can access the lab.  You can remain in the lab after the building has closed.  The lab is not open to students when classes are meeting in the lab.  Those times will be posted on the lab door.  If you are in the lab when a class is about to begin, you will be asked to leave.  Note that some classes meet only occasionally in the lab and professors do their best to post those times on the door in advance of the class meeting time.

Bunnell Building hours vary.  Note that sometimes the south entrance by the Journalism Department is locked while one or both of the north entrances by the flags are open, so try the other doors if you cannot enter through the south entrance.

Final Grade Breakdown:

Attendance: 20%

“Eighty percent of success is showing up.”

—Woody Allen

Each unexcused absence in this class will reduce your final grade.  If you have six or more unexcused absences, then you will automatically fail the course REGARDLESS of if your other grades were high enough to allow you to pass the course.

Excused absences will not affect your attendance grade (though you will lose the extra credit).  An excused absence is when you have notified me before class that you will not be able to make it to class for a valid reason: sick, personal emergency, etc.  “I’m too busy” or “I can’t find a ride to class” are not valid reasons for missing class.

You must notify me BEFORE class for an absence to be excused.  Telling me hours or days later why you missed class will not excuse the absence.  Treat this class like a job.  If you don’t show up to work and don’t call in, you get fired.  The only exception to this rule is that I will accept a doctor’s note up to a week after you return to class as an excuse for an absence.

Students who have zero absences (excused or unexcused) and no tardies will receive extra credit in their final grade.  Any absence or tardy for any reason will remove this extra credit.

Make sure to contact me after an absence to see what announcements or assignments you missed.  I recommend you ask a fellow student for a copy of their notes from that class to see what material we covered.

“Twenty percent of success is showing up…on time.”

—Robert Prince

Because coming late to class disrupts class, at times can force us to wait for you, and can mean missing important announcements, every three times you arrive late to class I will add one absence to your grade.  Redefine “on time” to class in your mind to mean “five minutes early.”  If you do arrive to class late, make sure to see me after class to make sure I mark you as present and let you know about any announcements I may have made that day.

Here is how your absences will affect your final grade:

0 Absences (and zero tardies) = 110% for attendance (equals +2% extra credit)

Unexcused Absence = -10% from attendance grade per each

6+ Unexcused Absences = Automatically fail the course

Pop Quizzes: 5%

Cover the material in the course lectures and readings.  If you miss a pop quiz, it can only be made up if your absence was excused and it must be made up before you return to class.  If you are late to class the day of a pop quiz, you cannot take it unless your tardy was excused.

Exam: 25%

Covers the readings and lectures.

Production Assignment Basic Camerawork: 5%

Covers the basic composition skills.

Production Assignment Intermediate Camerawork: 5%

Covers intermediate composition skills.

Production Assignment Lighting: 5%

Covers the basics of three-point lighting.

Production Assignment Audio: 5%

Covers the basics of recording quality audio for video and using audio in storytelling.

Production Assignment Editing: 5%

Covers the basics of editing on Final Cut Pro.

Final Project: 25%

A short 3-5 minute video that demonstrates a cumulative knowledge of the subjects covered in the course.

 

Grading Guidelines:

A:  An honor grade that indicates originality and independent work, mastery of the subject and the satisfactory completion of more work than was regularly required.  To get an “A,” students in my classes need to impress me with the work they’ve done on an assignment and go beyond what I asked for in the assignment.

94%-100% = A, 90%-93% = A-

B:  Indicates outstanding ability above the average level of performance.  To get a “B,” students in my classes need to do exactly what I asked for in the assignment and do it well.

87%-89% = B+, 84%-86% = B, 80%-83% = B-

IMPORTANT GRADING POLICY INFORMATION

Implications of the Grade of ‘C’ (and below) for letter-graded

undergraduate courses which are:

–Prerequisites for other courses, or

–Degree major requirements, or

–Core courses

C+ (2.3): Satisfactory to Fair: satisfactory level of performance, with some

mastery of material.

C (2.0): Average: satisfactory level of performance and level of competency

in the subject. A minimum grade of ‘C’ (2.0) is required for all

prerequisites and major courses.

C- (1.7): Barely satisfactory: Minimum grade required for all Core (X)

Courses. A grade of C- (1.7) in a class which is a prerequisite for another

class or in a class required for a student’s major will result in the

student being required to retake the class.

77%-79% = C+, 74%-76% = C, 70%-73% = C-

D+ (1.3); D (1.0); D- (0.7): Below Average: Fair to poor level of competency

in the subject matter.  A grade of D+, D or D- in a Core (X) class will

automatically require the student to retake the class to receive core

credit, starting Fall 2011.

67%-69% = D+, 64%-66% = D, 60%-63% = D-

 

F:  Indicates failure to meet lowest standards.  To get an “F,” students in my classes will have missed major elements of the assignment and/or the content will be all—or nearly all—poor quality.

0%-59% = F

For additional grading policy information, see the UAF Catalog, pages 46-50.

Course Policies:

Late work or quizzes will be docked 15% plus an additional 15% for each class period it is not turned in after the due date.  Backup your work, reserve video equipment, and work ahead of deadlines so you can avoid these problems.  If you miss the midterm exam, you will need documentation proving the legitimacy of your absence to avoid the 15% grade reduction.

Projects can be redone only if there is sufficient evidence that a requirement(s) of the assignment was described in a way that a reasonable adult would find confusing or ambiguous and that unclear element of the assignment directly related to the student’s reduced grade.

All work must comply with the University of Alaska Fairbanks policies on student conduct found online at www.uaf.edu/catalog/current/academics/regs3.html.

All work must be original productions for this course and plagiarism will result in a zero for the assignment, a possible F for the class, and potentially further academic discipline.  Ignorance of what it means to plagiarize will not be an excuse from punishment.  If you have questions about plagiarism, contact me before you hand in the assignment.

I will make reasonable accommodations for individuals with documented disabilities. Notify me within the first two weeks of the semester if you have any special needs.

Support Services:

I will make reasonable accommodations for individuals with documented disabilities, for example, providing an in-class note taker, providing a quiet and solitary test-taking environment, or other reasonable accommodations in line with your documented needs.  Disability services will provide you with documentary indicating what kind of assistance you need and, based on that evidence, I will implement that assistance to the best of my abilities. Notify me within the first two weeks of the semester if you have any special needs.

The departments listed below provide resources for students with disabilities, help writing papers, and help preparing for class presentations:

Disability Services

e-mail. fydso@uaf.edu

tel. 907-474-5655

tty. 907-474-1827

Whitaker Building Room 208

www.uaf.edu/disability

About Disability Services

At UAF Disability Services, our goal is to provide UAF students with access to academic classes and course materials through an interactive accommodation process.

UAF Disability Services provides accommodations to students on the Fairbanks campus as well as on the Bristol Bay, Chukchi, Interior Aleutians, Kuskokwim, Northwest, Community Technical College (CTC), Center For Distance Education (CDE), and College for Rural and Community Development (CRCD) campuses.

Students using community campuses or distance learning programs should contact Disability Services via telephone, fax, e-mail, U.S. postal mail, or in person to request and arrange for accommodations.

We enjoy supporting individuality, promoting independence and celebrating graduations.

Writing Center

Dept. Of English

801 Gruening Bldg.

(907) 474-7193

faengl@uaf.edu

The Writing Center is a student-staffed, student-oriented service of the English Department. Our tutors, English Department teaching assistants and a few outstanding undergraduate students, can assist you in all phases of the writing process, including the following:

  • Brainstorming and generating topics
  • Organizing ideas
  • Developing research strategies
  • Use of citation styles — MLA, APA, and Chicago
  • Editing for clarity and correctness

We collaborate with each student on a one-to-one basis, and we will work with students at any phase of the writing process — planning, drafting, revising. We can also help writers discover ways of improving grammar, mechanics, and punctuation.

Tutorials. Tutorial appointments at the Writing Center are 30 minutes long, and we encourage you to call or stop by to make an appointment. Walk-in sessions are often available, but in the last half of the semester we are often booked.

Fax Tutoring. We provide a fax tutoring service for students enrolled in the College of Rural and Community Development (CRCD). Students can fax their papers to us (1-800-478-5246), and they will have a telephone tutorial with a tutor at a designated time. We offer fax tutorials Monday through Thursday evenings and Sunday afternoons. Phone the Writing Center (907/474-5314) to make an appointment.

 

Speaking Center

Dept. of Communication

507 Greuning Bldg.

(907) 474-5470

fyspeak@uaf.edu

What is the Speaking Center?

The Speaking Center is a student-oriented service provided to facilitate preparing public presentations. Students can recieve coaching in refining their presentation topic, in organizing their presentation effectively, and in practicing their presentation. The Center makes it possible to digitally record and to watch one’s practice presentation, receiving constructive feed back from a Speaking Center coach.

 

Who can use the Speaking Center?

The Speaking center is available to all students currently enrolled at UAF or at TVC.

 

Scheduling Procedures

Please call 474-5470 or e-mail fyspeak@gmail.com to schedule an appointment at the Speaking Center. Walk-ins are welcome, however, students can be served only if there are openings.

Individuals may schedule the Center’s practice room daily any time prior to Speaking Center hours.

About Your Professor:

I grew up in East Lansing, Michigan and graduated from Calvin College with a B.A. in Telecommunications.  After college I went to work in Chicago for Kurtis Productions, producers of the Investigative Reports series on A&E.  I then was hired as a Producer/Director for the PBS affiliate in Grand Rapids, Michigan where I directed live and pre-recorded programs for local broadcast.  In 2000 I went back to Calvin to run the video production department.  While working there I earned my M.A. from Michigan State University in Telecommunication, Information Studies and Media.

In 2005 I moved to Fairbanks to teach video production and documentary filmmaking in the Journalism Department at the University of Alaska Fairbanks.

  

Want more video classes?  Check these out:

 

JRN/FLM F290 Digital Video Editing

3 Credits / Offered As Demand Warrants / Prof. Prince

Introduction to the technical and aesthetic aspects of non-linear digital video editing. Students will go from little or no experience in non-linear editing to being comfortable with some of the advanced editing techniques. Address motion picture editing theories that are not bound to time or specific editing technology. Special fees apply. (Cross-listed with FLM F290.) (3+0

JRN/FLM F292 Hands on Documentary Production

3 Credits / MAYmester / Prof. Prince

Production of a short video documentary from start to finish on a subject to be announced. The class will work collectively to produce the film. Students will have the opportunity to work in various positions from director, producer, camera operator, sound, editing, etc. Special fees apply.  (Cross-listed with FLM F290.) (3+0)

JRN/FLM F480 Documentary Filmmaking (h)
3 Credits / Offered Spring / Prof. Prince
Basics of hands-on documentary filmmaking techniques, including preproduction, production and postproduction. Different documentary filmmaking directing styles and the process of distributing a documentary. Each student will produce a short documentary as the capstone of the course. Special fees apply. Prerequisites: JRN F280 or permission of instructor. (3+0) 

VIDEO STORYTELLING: Tentative Course Schedule

Date: Subject: Assignment Due:

8/30

 Introduction to the course

9/4

 Camera Controls / Tripods

9/6

 Guts of a Video Camera Chapter 4: From Light to Electrical Energy

9/11

 Camera Specs

9/13

 Video Cables  

9/18

 View Projects Production Assignment:  Basic Camerawork

9/20

 Composition Chapter 5: Composition

9/25

 Composition Activity  

9/27

 Composition Activity  

10/2

 View Projects Production Assignment:  Intermediate Camerawork

10/4

 Lighting & White Balance Chapter 7: Lighting in the Field

10/9

 Lighting Continued

10/11

 Lighting Activity  

10/16

 View Projects / audio SET-UP Production Assignment: Lighting

10/18

 Audio RECODING Chapter 6: Audio in the Field

10/23

 View Projects Production Assignment:  Audio

10/25

 Editing as storytelling Chapter 8: The Aesthetics of Editing

10/30

 Introduction to Editing Chapter 9: Post Production

11/1

 Editing Continued

11/6

 Editing Continued

11/8

 Graphics & Effects Chapter 11: Graphics & Effects

11/13

 In-class editing period  

11/15

 In-class editing period  

11/20

 View Projects Production Assignment:  Editing

11/22

 Thanksgiving Break – No Class

11/27

 Final Project Discussion / Exam Review

11/29

 Exam

12/4

 View Raw Footage Raw Footage for Final Project

12/6

 In-class editing period  

12/13

 Final Exam Period 10:15am-12:15pm View final projects

 

488 Dramatic Writing


DRAMATIC WRITING

ENGLISH / FILM 488 – Fall, 2013 

Instructor: Leonard Kamerling

Email: ljkamerling@alaska.edu

COURSE DESCRIPTION:

English / Film 488 introduces students to the craft of dramatic writing for film and theater.  This is a course about how to successfully plan, structure and write an original dramatic work. Students will gain a practical understanding of the use of story structure, setting, character, plot, dialogue, and how these elements work together to create compelling drama.

English 488 is a writing intensive course.  Graduated writing exercises will be assigned that focus on developing a play or screenplay’s dramatic premise, plot structure, and characters.  This is to help lay the groundwork necessary for students to begin their own original dramatic writing projects.  In the workshop phase of the course, students present their works-in-progress for group readings, critical feedback and suggestions for revision.

In order to have a common body of work to draw from, selected theatrical scripts and film screenplays will be read and discussed in class. Through readings and critical discussions we will explore specific narrative problems presented in each work.  We will also examine the history and evolution of dramatic writing and how the conventions of the past have shaped modern day theater and film.

COURSE REQUIREMENTS:

1.         Completion of writing and reading assignments.

2.         Completion of one of the following final projects:

• An original one-act theatrical play – minimum length of 20 pages.

• An original one-act film screenplay – minimum length of 20 pages.

The final project should build on an original story idea.  Adaptations of published stories or creative writing works-in-progress are strongly discouraged.

This class combines lecture, discussion, and group critiques of work-in-progress. As students begin to submit work for review, the class will gradually take the form of a writing workshop.  Every student is expected to participate in discussions and workshop critiques.

GRADING POLICY:

The majority of the final grade will come from the final project – the original one-act play or screenplay.  I will be looking for signs of developing craft, knowledge of dramatic theory, and careful attention to criticism and revisions suggested in class. The remainder of the grade will come from writing assignments, weekly readings, and class participation.

50% – Final writing project

25% – Writing and reading assignments

25% – Class participation

Your perfect attendance is expected. Two unexcused absences will result in a lowered grade.

READING LIST:

Plays:

A Doll’s House,  by Henrik Ibsen

Fool for Love, by Sam Shepard

Death of a Salesman, By Arthur Miller

Night, Mother, by Marsha Norman

Screenplays:

The Verdict, by David Mamet

Moonstruck, by J. Patrick Shanley

 

WEEKLY SCHEDULE (Subject to Change)

 Week 1: Course Introduction.  What is drama and how does it work?  Introduction to the elements of dramatic writing.

Week 2:   Classic Dramatic Story Structure. Dramatic conventions from Aristotle to Mamet. READING: A Doll’s House, Ibsen (from Modern and Contemporary Drama).

Week 3:  What Happens that Makes Something Else Happen?

READING: The Verdict,  by David Mamet (screenplay reading and film viewing).

Week 4:  The Law of Conflict – Nothing Moves Forward Without Opposition.

READING: Fool for Love, by Sam Shepard (from Modern and Contemporary Drama).

Week 5:  Psychological Realism and the Suspension of Disbelief.

READING: Death of a Salesman, by Arthur Miller  (from Modern and Contemporary Drama).

 Week 6:  Structure Elements in Harmony. READING: Moonstruck, by J. Patrick Shanley

Week 7:  Point of View and The Character’s Journey.  Playwrights /Screenwriters Workshop.

 Week 8: Writing from Within: The Moral Argument.

READING:  Night, Mother, by Marsha Norman  (from Modern and Contemporary Drama).

Weeks 9 & 10 Playwrights / Screenwriter’s Workshop.

Week 11: The Midpoint Crisis – Act Design and Scene Construction.

Playwrights / Screenwriter’s Workshop.

Week 12:  Fantasy and the Absurd.  – Trends In Contemporary Theater and Cinema

Playwrights / Screenwriter’s Workshop.

Weeks13-15:  Playwrights / Screenwriters Workshop.

 

IMPORTANT DUE DATES:

Week 5 –   First five pages of play/screenplay due.

Week 8 –  Second five pages of play/screenplay due.

Week 14 – Final Projects due.

172 Previsualiztion and Preproduction for Film

Previsualiztion and Preproduction for Film

a.k.a “Written, Produced, and Directed by…”

University of Alaska Fairbanks

Fall 2012

ART/FLM/THR 172 – 3 credits

CRNS:  74010/ 75425/ 76322

  1. A.  Instructor:

Maya Salganek, Assistant Professor

Office Location: 105B Fine Arts/Theatre

Office Phone: (907) 474-5950

Office Hours: T/R 11:30-12:30 & M/W 3:30 -5PM appointments available at: http://tinyurl.com/mayaFall2012

Or by appointment , check my Google Calendar: https://sites.google.com/a/alaska.edu/salganek

Email: maya@alaska.edu

  1. B.  Required Reading & Equipment
  • · Screenplay: The Foundations of Screenwriting by Syd Field ISBN: 0385339038
  • · The Complete Film Production Handbook-  4 Edition by Eve Light Honthaner ISBN 9780240811505
  • Film Directing Shot by Shot: Visualizing from concept to screen by Steven D. Katz. Michael Wise Productions publishers. ISBN: 13 978-0-941188-10-4 On reserve at the library.
  • Any additional readings or films are on reserve at the Rasmuson Library for 2 hour check out or will be posted to Blackboard
  • External hard drive I highly recommend that all video production students purchase their own external hard drive – at least 200GB (500GB recommended) for storing your video projects.  The drive can be formatted for Mac or Mac and PC (using FAT32 format), according to your preference.  All video projects stored on the department’s computers will be deleted by May 15, 2012.
  • Writing Journal – In class exercises should be done in writing journal. May be electronic if so desired.
  1. C.  Suggested Reading and Resources:
  •  “Making Short Films” by Clifford Thurlow ISBN: 1845200632
  • Story: Substance, Structure, Style and The Principles of Screenwriting by Robert McKee  ISBN: 978-0060391683
  • Hero with a Thousand Faces by Joeseph Campbell.
  • http://www.frameforge3d.com/kb/  Knowledgebase for FrameForge software
  • http://www.simplyscripts.com Thousands of screenplays online for free
  1. D.  Course description:
    Laying a foundation for cinema production, this course will explore screenwriting, storyboarding, previsulization animation, animatics, and film pre-production approaches. This course will focus on developing original stories for animation or dramatic film productions.

What is Previs?

“Previs is a collaborative process that generates preliminary versions of shots or sequences, predominantly using 3D animation tools and a virtual environment. It enables filmmakers to visually explore creative ideas, plan technical solutions, and communicate a shared vision for efficient production.”

-Definition formulated by the ASC-ADG-VES Joint Technology Subcommittee on Previsualization, 2009.

  1. E.  Goals:
  • ·         Students will learn to write visually for film/television/animation.
  • ·         Students will evolve their approach to filmmaking through storyboarding, shot composition, and visual design. 
  • ·         Students will produce animatics and animated storyboards to express their cinematic ideas.
  • Students will be prepared to produce an original film using their ideas developed in this course.
  1. F.  Student Learning Outcomes:
  • ·         Students will write an original screenplay and realize it through storyboarding and animatics with a firm grasp of preproduction requirements.
  • ·          Students will understand setting up shots and scenes to match their vision of the film.
  • ·         Students will be prepared to launch production of an original film project.
  1. G.  Instructional methods:
    The class will meet for lecture and “hands-on” demonstration and practice of various techniques and exercises.
  1. H.  Course policies:
    1. 1.    Attendance:

       Attendance is mandatory.  Students begin will 100 points for attendance worth 10% of final grade. 5 min late = -1 pt; +5 min late = -2 pts; absence= -3pts.  Class participation and preparation is essential for this course.  Your classmates are counting on you!

Take responsibility for getting assignments or handouts from classmates.  If you miss class for any reason, it’s your responsibility to arrange for a classmate to collect copies of any handouts, or to provide you with information on any assignments, activities, lecture materials, or dates changed. Studies have shown that students who attend class regularly and participate fully, find assignments and exams much easier and more meaningful, and (surprise!) tend to get better grades than those who do not attend class regularly.

Be in class to earn a grade for an in-class activity or exercise. Students will be responsible for presenting and critiquing video material in class, should you miss this portion, you will take a zero for the day. In-class activities and exercises may not be made up at a later date.  Missed in-class assignments will need to be performed on your own time, and will be expected in your writing journal. In rare instances, students may have to miss class for a valid, university-sanctioned reason (In general, an absence is considered “official” when the student is: (A) participating in an approved field trip or other official UAF activity [e.g., athletics, music, theater arts]; (B) confirmed under doctor’s orders; or (C) granted a leave of absence from UAF for reasonable cause by an academic dean or director).  Except for medical emergencies, which require documentation, absences must be approved by the instructor prior to the class session that will be missed.  Alternate assignments to make up for any in-class points will be given only for instructor-approved absences.

  1. 2.  Blackboard/Assignments:
      • The “Course Information” folder includes a copy of this syllabus, research materials, software links, and instructor contact information, and instructional videos.
      • Assignments are posted in the Assignments folder, and organized by Week.  You are responsible for all the assignments listed there. This syllabus is just an outline for class assignments and developments.
  1. 3.  Cell Phones:

       Cell Phones are helpful tools in film production, but should your cell phone ring during a shoot you will be asked to leave for the day and will receive zero points. If it happened on a working set, you would be fired! Texting is prohibited during class.

  1. 4.  Equipment:

Film Students have access to check out equipment from the equipment checkout located in Bunnell 101A (Journalism department). Checkout hours TBD. You can look at available equipment at http://lend-items.com .  Login with your Facebook account.

  1. 5.  Editing Labs:

The Alaska Media Center computer lab (Music 305) has 20 imacs or MacPros loaded with Final Cut Pro 7 (Studio 3), Premiere CS6, and Avid Media Composer 6 for you to use. The labs also feature Celtx screenwriting software, and FrameForge Previz software for storyboarding and animatics. You will need your polar express card to access the lab. Each entrance to the Lab is recorded, so should there be a problem we know who was in the lab when.  Please sign-in and out when you use the computers (so I know how often you were really there editing).

  1. I.    Evaluation of Work & Grades
    1. 1.    Values

All work will be evaluated using a +/- grading system. You must earn a “C” or higher for this course to count towards a film major/minor degree.

A+ = 4.0 100-97%

A = 4.0     96-93%

A- = 3.7    92-90%

B+ = 3.3   89-87%

B = 3.0     86-83%

B- = 2.7    82-80%

C+ = 2.3   79-77%

C = 2.0     76-73%

C- = 1.7      72-70%

D+ = 1.3     69-67%

D = 1.0       66-63%

D- = 0.7    62-60%

Value of Assigned Work toward Final Grade:
Attendance/participation & discussion       10 %
Written assignments …………………………………………………… 30 %
Production Assignments……………………………………… 40 %

Final Projects…………………………………………………………………………………… 20 %

Total………………………………………………………………………………… 100%

  1. 2.  Grading Written and Production Assignments:

The ability to communicate ideas clearly is the cornerstone of a great filmmaker.  To demonstrate your vision, you should plan to organize your ideas clearly, use correct grammar, spell words and names correctly, and demonstrate that you’ve thoroughly conceptualized and edited your work.  Effort put in to the pre-production will make up for problems during production and post.

All production assignments should be turned in with accompanying production material. Screenplays, storyboards, production schedules, contact sheets, etc.

It’s not “cheating” to ask for opinions and editing skills of others.  Instead, the discussion is positive and can bring new insights to your work. The Writing Center (http://www.alaska.edu/english/studentresources/writing/) is available for students to develop their writing skills. Please visit or contact them for assistance, Gruening 801 or    474-5314.  For assistance with video production, please consult me, or your production team members.

WRITTEN ASSIGNMENTS may include:

  • Writing journal/ in-class writings
  • film reviews and film director papers
  •  play critique from a directorial standpoint
  • directorial concept paper/ directors’ notes
  • screenplays

PRODUCTION ASSIGNMENTS may include:

  • storyboards
  • animatics
  • an illustrated script or prompt book including analysis of script, scenes, characters
  • designs, renderings, etc.
  1. 3.  Late Papers/Assignments

ALL ASSIGNMENTS (written or performed) WILL BE SUBMITTED ON TIME OR BE PENALIZED 5% FOR EACH LATE DAY. All written assignments, unless otherwise noted, are to be typed double-spaced and attached to assignments on blackboard.    

  1. J.   Film Club:  Students are encouraged to participate in the UAF Student Film Club. Meetings take place the every Thursday from 1:05-1:55 in the Theatre Green Room.
  1. K.  Disability Services:  The Office of Disability Services implements the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), and insures that UAF students have equal access to the campus and course materials. I will work with the Office of Disabilities Services (203 WHIT, 474-7043) to provide reasonable accommodation to students with disabilities. Please notify me immediately if you need special assistance in this class.

Course calendar:  Tentative schedule. Readings should be completed by the date assigned. All assignments should be reviewed on blackboard where explicit instructions and resource materials will be posted.  Items marked with an * are available on Reserve at the Rasmuson Library. All items marked with a † are available via Blackboard to download/print/ and read.

SCREENWRITING

Week Tuesday Thursday
Week 1WELCOMEAugust 30   Overview of syllabus. Intro to Screenwriting.Reading Assignment: c   Making Short Films Chapter 1 -The Script †c   Screenplay by Syd Field, Chapters 1-5VIEW: Sikumi by Andrew MacLean
Week 2Character is action9/4 & 9/6 Motifs, Heroes, and Enduring TruthsHave Read: c   Making Short Films Chapter 1 -The Script †c   Screenplay by Syd Field, Chapters 1-5IN-CLASS Writing Exercise:

  • Entering the world of the film
 “Adapt” Writing images, showing action.Have Read:c    The Laramie Project – Stage play†*c   Screenplay: Chapters 13 & 15Introduction to Celtx

Writing Assignment:

Adapt one Laramie Project “Moment” into a  Screenplay  – sections assigned in class. Due next Tuesday.
Week 39/ 11 & 9/13Script vs. Screenplay Have Read:c   Screenplay: Chapters 6-9c   Little Miss Sunshine – excerpts†Suggested Reading:

  • Making Short Films Chapter 9:  Greta May the Adaptation. *Warning* Graphic content.

Writing Assignment:

  • Cinematic Story – Due 9/18

DUE: Laramie Project Screenplay Scene

 Write what You KnowHave Read: c   Selected short film scripts on blackboardc   Shot by Shot:  Pages ix – 6c   Screenplay: Chapters 10-12

 

View: short films & excerpts

  • “Spin” by Double Edge Films
  • Rubber

 

Identifying Character need.

STORYBOARDING & VISUAL DESIGN

Week 49/18 & 9/20Pre-production Design & Story-boarding “Designing the Frame: Shot composition, art design, and visual metaphors”DUE: Cinematic StoryHave Read: ÿ        Shot by Shot: Chapters 2 & 3. Words to Stills to Shots (Empire of the Sun, Citizen Kane, Graduate)View: examples of above plus Brother’s Quay, Chel White, David Lynch

IN-CLASS Writing Exercise:

  • Index card scenes

Writing Assignment: Outline of scenes for story in a Treatment format. Index card the scenes & rearrange. Write all of Screenplay in one sitting without editing (reworking). ROUGH in class 9/20. Refined Due 9/25

 “Propelling the Action forward with Montage” DUE: ROUGH screenplay w/ class copiesHave Read:c   Shot by Shot:  Chapters: 5-7, 21& 22c   Eisenstein’s theories of Montage†.

 
Week 59/25 & 9/27Story to Storyline DUE: Screenplay 1Have Read: c   Shot by Shot: Chapters 4 & 8,Visiting Artist: Mareca GutheriePRODUCTION ASSIGNMENT:

Storyboard your screenplay + classmates as slide show. Due in 1 week.

Screenplays assigned. Visualize and design.

 Have Read: c   Shot by Shot: Chapters 13 -16 Depth of Field, Camera Angles, Framing, POV, 

PREVIZ & PREPRODUCTION

Week 610/2 & 10/4Previz into DUE: Storyboards 1 & 2  – Class Critique  Animatics Introduced with Avid Production Assignment: Animatics from Storyboards 1. Due 10/16
Week 710/9 & 11 Producing: Have Read : c   · Film Production: Chapter 1-The Production Team,c   Chapter 2 – The Production Officec     Chapter 3 – Basic Accounting ,

c   Chapter 5 – Incentives

c   Chapter 7- Insurance Requirements

In Class: Animatics Production

 Outsourcing – Finding the right person for the job. Have Read: c   Film Production: Chapter 9 – Building Relationshipsc   Chapter 10 – Deal Memosc   Chapter 11 – Unions and Guilds,

c   Chapter 12– Principal Talent;

c   Chapter 13 – Background Talent
Week 810/16 & 18   Final Cut Animatic DUE. Class Critiques. FrameForge introduced:Have explored:http://www.frameforge3d.com/watch-demo/http://www.frameforge3d.com/kb/“Reading between the lines”

Dialogue & Dramatic Need

Have Read:

c    Shot by Shot: Chapters 9,10, 11, 12 -Dialogue Staging

Production Assignment: The Messenger in Frame Forge. Due 10/25

 
Week 910/23 & 25 Have Read: c   Film Production: Chapter 17: Safetyc   Shot by Shot: Chapters 17-20Staging and Motion options via FrameForge

Production Assignment:

Final Animatics, with rendered audio, voice over, credits, soundtrack Due Week 15 (12/4) for Critique.

 Production Preparations: Script BreakdownHave Read · Film Production:c    Chapter 4 – From Script to Schedulec   Chapter 6- Pre-Production

Production Assignment:

Do a script breakdown for classmate’s film. Include a budget and breakdown sheets.  Due 11/8.

DUE: 3D Animatic Exercise (The Messenger) Due.

 

 

 

Week 1010/30 & 11/1 Budgeting with MovieMagicHave Read: Film Productionc   Chapter 25 –Independent Filmmaking,c    Chapter 26, Low-Budget Filmmaking

Production : Prepare a preliminary budget for your film. Fantasy version! Due next class

 

 LocationsHave Read: · Film Production: c   Chapter 18- Locationsc   Chapter 19 – Distant Location,

c   Chapter 20 – Foreign Locations

Enticing your crew: Housing, Food, and Fun

· Film Production:, Chapter 21: Travel and Housing, Chapter 22: Shipping

Production: Find locations for your film, and upload potential Fairbanks locations to ReelScout.

 
Week 1111/6 & 8 Audio & Effects  Enhancements: Adding Sound Design to your project. Voice-overs, score, and music rights.Have Read: Film Production: c   Chapter 15 – Clearances & Releases,

c    Chapter 16 – Guide to Music Clearance

c   Chapter 23 – Effects

 

Casting: What to look for, and how.

Voice over casting call. Preliminary readings for production casting.

 

 Fundraising: Pitching & The BizSources for film producing, the reality of the independent film industry. Low and high budget models.Film Production: c   Chapter 24 -Specifically TelevisionGuest Speaker: Ronan Nagle

DUE: Production breakdown and Budget

 
Week 12 11/13 & 15 Wiggle Room Wiggle Room
Week 1311/20 Sharing and Exporting your projectsHave Read:Film Productionc   Chapter 29 – Wrapc   Chapter 30 – Post Production Overview

 

 NO CLASSES. BE THANKFUL!
Week 1411/27 & 29 The Future JobHave Read:Film Productionc   Chapter 27- New Media,c    Chapter 28 – Commercial Production

c   Chapter 31 – Greener Filmmaking

c   Chapter 32 – Industry Survival Tips

 Patience or Broadcast? Have Read:c   Shot by Shot: Chapter 23Avatar to the Max. Without a box. Self-publishing vs. Distribution vs. hulu. Can you go viral?
Week 1512/4 & 6 Critique of Final Previz Animatics. Critique of Final Previz Animatics.
FINALEXAM

8 – 10 a.m., Thursday, Dec. 13

FINAL FILM SCREENING for Public

Screenplay & Production notebooks due.

 

460 Cross-Cultural Filmmaking

Cross-Cultural Filmmaking

Educational Films for Diverse Audiences

Previously offered as:

“Visual Anthropology and Scientific Documentary with Digital Video” 

(Summer 2008)

University of Alaska Fairbanks

Film/Art/Anth 463

A.  Instructor:

Maya Salganek, Assistant Professor

109B Fine Arts. (907) 474-5950.

Office Hours: TBD

maya@alaska.edu

Required Reading:

Cross-Cultural Filmmaking: A Handbook for making documentary and ethnographic films and videos by Ilisa Barbash and Lucien Taylor.

ISBN 0520087607

Suggested Reading:

Laboratory Life: The Construction of Scientific Facts. Latour and Woolgar. ISBN 069102832X

        The Anthropology of Media. Richard R. Wilk. ISBN 0631220941

  1. Course description:

The use of film as a documentary tool, for describing and understanding scientific and cultural phenomenon has led to the education of generations. Understanding the implications of our film work with a theoretical base for cultural understanding, scientific need, and educational potentials will strengthen the films integrity and outcome. Film students will learn about pre-production, production, and post-production methods in creating video documents useful as a scientific/cultural record.  Pre-production will include research of archival visual media, oral histories, and print materials; analysis of educational  and scientific funding and distribution options; and preliminary interviews, location scouting, and film treatment. Production will include time on location with small film crews, media logging, and record keeping. Post-production will include basic editing of sequences for distribution.

  1. Goals:

       Students will refine proficiencies in camera work, video production management, non-linear digital editing, and general field research techniques, with emphasis on the conceptual/cultural ramifications of video practices.

  1. Student Learning Outcomes:

Each student will participate in a live documentary field shoot, including pre-production and post-production.  In addition students will be responsible for camera equipment, production management, and field logistics.  Understanding the theoretical and practical applications of video research as it applies to cross-cultural issues, scientific records, and audience interpretations will also be discussed.

  1. Instructional methods:

All students will meet for hands-on lectures and seminars weekly. Course materials will be available via Blackboard (http://www.classes.uaf.edu) and all students are responsible for posted Blackboard material prior to class.

  1. Course policies:
    1. 1.    Attendance:

       Attendance is mandatory.  Students receive three points for every class attended; two points for each class arrived to less than 5 minutes late, one point for arriving more than 5 minutes late, and zero points for not attending. Class participation and preparation is essential for this course.  Your classmates are counting on you!

Take responsibility for getting assignments or handouts from classmates.  If you miss class for any reason, it’s your responsibility to arrange for a classmate to collect copies of any handouts, or to provide you with information on any assignments, activities, lecture materials, or dates changed. Studies have shown that students who attend class regularly and participate fully, find assignments and exams much easier and more meaningful, and (surprise!) tend to get better grades than those who do not attend class regularly.

Be in class to earn a grade for an in-class activity or exercise. Students will be responsible for presenting and critiquing video material in class, should you miss this portion, you will take a zero for the day. In-class activities and exercises may not be made up at a later date.  In rare instances, students may have to miss class for a valid, university-sanctioned reason (In general, an absence is considered “official” when the student is: (A) participating in an approved field trip or other official UAF activity [e.g., athletics, music, theater arts]; (B) confirmed under doctor’s orders; or (C) granted a leave of absence from UAF for reasonable cause by an academic dean or director).  Except for medical emergencies, which require documentation, absences must be approved by the instructor prior to the class session that will be missed.  Alternate assignments to make up for any in-class points will be given only for instructor-approved absences.

  1. 2.  Blackboard/Assignments:
      • The “Course Documents” folder includes a copy of this syllabus, research materials, software, a link to schedule editing time, and instructional videos.
      • Assignments are posted in the Assignments folder, and organized by Week.  You are responsible for all the assignments listed there. This syllabus is just an outline for class assignments and developments.
      • Staff Information includes my complete calendar so you can be proactive and  make an appointment.
  1. 3.  Cell Phones:

       Cell Phones are helpful tools in film production, but should your cell phone ring during a shoot you will be asked to leave for the day and will receive zero points. If it happened on a working set, you would be fired! Texting is prohibited during class.

  1. 4.  Equipment:

Each student crew is responsible for checking out and returning equipment (video cameras, tripods, microphones, etc.). As instructor, I reserve the right to remove you from any group or restrict you from working with any equipment should there be abuse, misuse, or damage done.  You will be billed for any equipment damaged.

  1. 5.  Editing Labs:

The Alaska Media Center computer lab (Music 305) has four MacPros loaded with Final Cut Pro 7 (Studio 3) for you to use. You will need your polar express card to access the lab. Each entrance to the Lab is recorded, so should there be a problem we know who was in the lab when.  Please sign-in and out when you use the computers (so I know how often you were really there editing). You can sign up for no more than 3 hours of editing time per day. Should no one be using the computers, then you can continue to work. Sign up for your time online: http://filmuaf.genbook.com

If you are more than 15 minutes late, you loose your time to the first person waiting in line.

Evaluation:
Class Participation/Attendance:             10%

              Seminar Discussions/Postings:          10%

Preproduction Notebook:                    20%

Fieldwork Production Raw Footage:   20%

Critiques:                                        15%

Final Project:                               15%

Final Paper:                                    10%

All work will be evaluated using a +/- grading system as follows:

 A+ = 4.0   100-97%

A = 4.0     96-93%

A- = 3.7    92-90%

B+ = 3.3   89-87%

B = 3.0     86-83%

B- = 2.7    82-80%

C+ = 2.3   79-77%

C = 2.0     76-73%

C- = 1.7      72-70%

D+ = 1.3     69-67%

D = 1.0       66-63%

D- = 0.7   62-0%

 

 

Disability Services:  The Office of Disability Services implements the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), and insures that UAF students have equal access to the campus and course materials. State that you will work with the Office of Disabilities Services (203 WHIT, 474-7043) to provide reasonable accommodation to students with disabilities.”

 

 

Course calendar:

Readings are due prior to class meeting.  This is a tentative schedule and will alter as needed.
Week 1:  Role of the Filmmaker in the Cultural Record

  • Introduction to theoretical concerns of using video in fieldwork. Particular attention paid to ethnographic documentaries and scientific video data.

Read:

  • Cross-cultural Filmmaking, pp 1-33

Week 2: Framing the Subject: Observing and Directing

  • How perception and interpretation shape our understanding of an event/ place/ people. Nanook of the North. The Ax Fight.

Have Read:

  • Cross-cultural Filmmaking, pp 1-33

Week 3:  Community Service and Collaboration

  • Working for communities – finding a need. Listening.
  • Translating, literally and metaphorically

Have Read:

  • Cross-cultural Filmmaking, pp 94-212.

Week 4: Research of the Cultural Record through Film and Media

  • Archival Video, Audio, and Print media sources

Have Read:

  • Cross-cultural Filmmaking, pp 34-93.

Week 5:  Support Structures

  • Funding, Educational Standards, Outreach. Screening of Inuk.

Have Read:

  • Cross-cultural Filmmaking, pp 213-279

Week 6:  Production Preparations

  • Permissions, rights, and waivers– the implications and applications of video footage
  • Equipment checklist and packing for transportation

Have Read:

  • Cross-cultural Filmmaking, pp 280-324 & 485-488

Week 7:  IN CLASS PRODUCTION

Have Read:

Cross-cultural Filmmaking, pp 325-369

Week 8:  IN CLASS PRODUCTION

Week 9:  Review of Raw Footage Highlights

Have Read:

Cross-cultural Filmmaking, pp 369-450.

Week 10:  The cut. Editing in and out

  • Reactions to Edits from around the world

Week 11:  Translations, Subtitles, and Meaning

  • Who is the audience? Example of Atanajarut.

Week 12: Rough Cut Critiques

  • Rough Cuts due of Film

Week 13: Community Responses

  • Public Feedback: Invite the public to critique

Week 14:  Distribution Outlets

Have Read:

Cross-cultural Filmmaking, pp 460-485

FINAL EXAM: Public Screening will take place during exam time. Final Papers Due.

271 Let’s Make a Movie

“Let’s Make a Movie”  –

University of Alaska Fairbanks

Spring 2011 – Example Syllabus

FLM/THR 271 – 3 credits-  CRN 34803/35811

Meets Mondays and Wednesdays 10:30 AM-12:30 PM in Theatre 101 “Green Room”

A.   Instructor:

Maya Salganek, Assistant Professor

Office Location: 109B Fine Arts/Theatre

Office Phone: (907) 474-5950

Office Hours:  Mondays 2-5 or by appointment

Google Calendar: https://sites.google.com/a/alaska.edu/salganek

Email: maya@alaska.edu

B.    Required Reading & Equipment

  • DV Filmmaking From Start to Finish by Ian Aronson. ISBN 0-596-00848-1 – O’Reilly Publishing.
  • Any additional readings or films are on reserve at the Rasmuson Library for 2 hour check out or will be posted to Blackboard
  • External hard drive I highly recommend that all video production students purchase their own external hard drive – at least 200GB (500GB recommended) for storing your video projects.  The drive can be formatted PC or Mac or both, according to your preference.  All video projects stored on the department’s computers will be deleted by JUNE 15, 2011.

C.   Suggested Reading:

  1. D.   Course description:
    Students will be involved in the process of producing a short dramatic video including screenwriting exercises, production development and design, storyboarding, location management, digital video camera operations, sound mixing, lighting, working with actors / directing fundamentals, and post-production development. An introductory course, students do not need previous experience making movies to take this class.
  2. E.    Goals:
  • Make your Own Damn Movie: Secrets of a Renegade Director by Lloyd Kaufman
  • Rebel Without a Crew: How a 23-Year-Old Filmmaker with $7,000 became a Hollywood Player by Robert Rodriguez
  • Students will collaboratively create a final film from pre-production through production.
  • Students will understand the mechanics of film production and the roles of various positions on the set.
  • Students will begin to determine their own unique skills and interests in film production.

F.    Student Learning Outcomes:

  • Each student will participate in pre-production of film.
  • Each Student will participate creating sceneography, light, and sound design of film.
  • Each student will participate in developing directorial choices for the film.
  • Each student will work in various departments in producing the film (including gaff, electric, PA, art, camera, and directing).
  • Each student will have a clear understanding of the requirements necessary to produce a film.

G.   Instructional methods:

  1. The class will meet weekly for lecture/ “hands-on” demonstration of various techniques described above.   The class as a team will participate in the production of a final film, following the expectations of working for a film production studio.  Transportation to additional locations may be necessary for film production.  Much of the course material is available online via Blackboard.

H.   Course policies:

    1. 1.   Attendance:

          Attendance is mandatory.  Students receive three points for every class attended; two points for each class arrived to less than 5 minutes late, one point for arriving more than 5 minutes late, and zero points for not attending. Class participation and preparation is essential for this course.  Your classmates are counting on you to help make this project work!

Should missing class be inevitable, please be courteous and email myself and your classmates who are depending on you.

  1. 2.   Blackboard/Assignments:
      • The “Course Documents” folder includes a copy of this syllabus, research materials, software, a link to schedule editing time, and instructional videos.
      • Assignments are posted in the Assignments folder, and organized by Week.  You are responsible for all the assignments listed there. This syllabus is just an outline for class assignments and developments.
      • Staff Information includes my complete calendar so you can be proactive and make an appointment as needed.
  1. 3.   Cell Phones:

          Cell Phones are helpful tools in film production, but should your cell phone ring during a shoot you will be asked to leave for the day and will receive zero points. If it happened on a working set, you would be fired!

4.   Production Communication

Students in the class will need to decide on a main method of communication for production information. Facebook has been a popular choice. Blackboard, email, twitter, and UAF groups are other options. Once the class decides the format, all communications must be made utilizing this medium. Should a student have any problems with that, it should be addressed immediately with myself as faculty member.

5.   Equipment:

Each student crew is responsible for checking out and returning equipment (video cameras, tripods, microphones, etc.). As instructor, I reserve the right to remove you from any group or restrict you from working with any equipment should there be abuse, misuse, or damage done.  You will be billed for any equipment damaged.

  1. 6.   Editing Labs:

The Alaska Media Center computer lab (Music 305) has four MacPros loaded with Final Cut Pro 7 (Studio 3) for you to use. You will need your polar express card to access the lab. Each entrance to the Lab is recorded, so should there be a problem we know who was in the lab when.  Please sign-in and out when you use the computers (so I know how often you were really there editing).

  1. 7.   Production Teams: 

Each student will be part of a production team, which will rotate responsibilities on the set from week to week. I recommend that teams work together to share information and experience. Each team will evaluate one another’s participation on a weekly basis as part of the evaluation process.  Expressed interests and abilities in class will determine teams. Should you have any issues with members of your team, please see me immediately. Do not wait with issues until the end of the class.

Production Teams:

  • Directing
  • Cinematography
  • Production
  • Design
  • Lights
  • Sound
  • Editing/ Post-Production

8.   Set-up:

On Production days, all equipment must be set-up on location by the time class starts (10:30 AM) or you will be considered late.  Production days will be determined ahead of time, but are anticipated to be March 27-April 1, 2011, and production teams should ensure that all equipment and set up needs are covered, particularly with a location shoot. There are often days and additional hours needed for students to work on the film. It is expected that you will make every effort to attend as many shoot days as possible.

  1. I.     Evaluation:

Class Attendance (including make-up work):       10%

Team Participation:                                                            10%

Written/Production Assignments:                           30%

Artistic Contribution                                                           10%

Final Film/Paper:                                                     20%

Final Production notebook:                                               20%

Grading Written and Production Assignments:

The ability to communicate ideas clearly is the cornerstone of a great filmmaker.  To demonstrate good directing, you should plan to organize your ideas clearly, use correct grammar, spell words and names correctly, and demonstrate that you’ve thoroughly conceptualized and edited your work.  Effort put in to the pre-production will make up for problems during production and post.

All production assignments should be turned in with accompanying production material. Screenplays, storyboards, production schedules, contact sheets, etc. It is your responsibility to provide this information along with your final cut of the film.

It’s not “cheating” to ask for opinions and editing skills of others.  Instead, the discussion is positive and can bring new insights to your work.

The Writing Center (http://www.alaska.edu/english/studentresources/writing/) is available for students to develop their writing skills. Please visit or contact them for assistance, Gruening 801 or 474-5314.  For assistance with video production, please consult me, or your production team members.

I generally evaluate video quality based on the following characteristics:

“A” Production:

•    Demonstrates a high level of insight about the story –concept is clear.

•    Exhibits creativity in both concept and approach to the story. Technique matches intention

•    Well organized production with complete supporting materials (screenplay, storyboard, production schedule, etc)

•    Displays awareness of the audience and the kind of production suitable for that audience.

•    Is virtually free from errors in mechanics: Shots and edits “work” without dropped frames, gaps, audio inconsistencies, continuity errors.

•    Addresses the task set by the assignment.

“B” Production:

•     Demonstrates great skill in one or more area of production.

•     Exhibits competence in both approach to the assigned problem and use of cinematic language.

•     Features good organization of pre-production, although it may have minor flaws in organization.

•     Displays awareness of the audience and the kind of production suitable for that audience.

•     Is generally free from errors in mechanics.  May have some editing or filming errors.

•     Addresses the task set by the assignment.

“C” Production:

•     Story conveys general understanding of video production skills.

•     Production is adequately developed and organized.

•     Displays some awareness of the audience and the kind of production suitable for that audience.

•     May display some errors in mechanics, on multiple levels.

•     Addresses the task set by the assignment.

“D” Production:

•          Demonstrates a weak concept and/or pre-visualization– unclear story structure or concept.

•     Displays weaknesses in development or organization, or

•     Reveals the director’s unawareness of the kind of production suitable for the audience, or

•     Reveals a pattern of errors in mechanics

•     Suggests a lack of understanding of the assignment.

“F” Production:

•     Work is incomplete, unedited, or

•     Unorganized for production

•     Reveals the director’s unawareness of the kind of production suitable for the audience, or

•     Reveals a pattern of errors in mechanics on multiple levels

•     Complete lack of understanding or disregard of the assignment.

All work will be evaluated using a +/- grading system as follows:

A+ = 100-97%           A = 93-96%                A- = 90-92%

B+ = 87-89%             B = 83-86%                 B- = 80-82%

C+ = 77-79%              C = 73-76%                C- = 70-72%

D+ = 67-79%             D = 63-66%               D- = 60-62%

F = 59 – 0%

Disability Services:

The Office of Disability Services implements the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), and insures that UAF students have equal access to the campus and course materials. Should you, for any reason, need additional assistance in meeting the demands of this course, please contact the Office of Disabilities Services (203 WHIT, (907)474-5655). I aim to provide reasonable accommodation to all students with disabilities. Should you need special accommodations or provisions, please meet with me after class, during office hours, or call me to discuss your needs as soon as possible.

Course calendar:   Tentative schedule. Readings should be completed by the date assigned. All assignments should be reviewed on blackboard.

Week Monday Wednesday

PRE-PRODUCTION
Week 11/24 &1/26WELCOME/FILMMAKING 101 Overview of syllabus. Intro to production teams/ Equipment/ Labs/ KUAC/ Schedules/Communications. Cost of Education. Have Read: DV Film– Preface & Chapters 1, 2 & 3.Filmmaking 101 Presentation. Assignment: READ excerpts of screenplay FROZEN RIVER by Courtney Hunt by 2/2.  Have read ENTIRE Screenplay of ALASKA LAND by 2/7.
Week 21/31 & 2/2THE STORY/THE SCRIPT Screenplays.  Have Read: all items on Blackboard:   Assignment:  Who are you on a film crew? Understanding the Story, examples from FROZEN RIVER.  Due: Who are You on Set? Assignments: Screenplay skits: U-A-F
Week 32/7 & 2/9THE VISION Production Teams Assigned Have Read: ALASKA LAND by Chinonye Chukwu.  Location Scouting – Alaska Land Breakdown.Screenplays Due: U-A-F Storyboarding, Animatics, Pre-visualization. Shooting to Edit/ Editing the Shot Have Read:  DV Film – Chapter 6 – Camera Motion
Week 42/14© 2/16THE LIGHT Working with Actors-Casting/Auditions:  Recording setups, log sheets, audition forms, model releases.  Location photos uploads Due for Alaska Land. Due:   Due Break Down and Storyboard photos for U-A-F Have Read: DV Film – Chapter 4 – Lighting, Guest speaker: Dave Selle
Week 52/21 & 2/23THE SOUND SHOOT: “U” Have Read: DV Film­- Chapters 7-8 Audio. Voice-overs, Audio effects, soundtracks, Audio editing. SHOOT: “A”Have Read: DV Film­- Chapters 17-18 Sound Design
Week 62/28 & 3/2THE BODY SHOOT: “F” Have Read: DV Film – Chapter 5 – Shooting for Effects   Alaska Land AUDITIONS – Salisbury LAB Theatre(May be held prior or following weekend, depending on director.)
Week 73/7 & 3/9THE CUT Have Read: Dv Film: Chapters 9 – 10 EditingIn Class Editing Projects MIDTERM  Editing Exercise Due.
Week 83/14 & 3/16  Spring Break No Class Spring Break – No Class
Week 93/21 & 3/23THE LOOK Have Read: Dv Film: 11-13 Effects.  Rehearsal.Producing Feature Film – Breakdowns  

 

PRODUCTION
Week 103/28 & 3/30 PRODUCTIONAlaska Land: Feature Film Production 3/27-4/10 & Making Of…(EPK) PRODUCTION
Week 114/4 & 4/6 PRODUCTION PRODUCTION

POST-PRODUCTION

 
Week 124/11 & 4/13 Wrap Post-Mortem
Week 13  4/18 & 4/20 Have Read:  Dv Film: Chapters 14 &15 – Titles Rough Cuts Due. DVD Production Overview of DVD Studio ProWinter’s Tale Opens Friday 4/22/11 @ 7:30 PM
Week 144/25 & 4/27 Have Read:  Dv Film: Chapter 16 – Color Have Read:  Dv Film: Chapter A (pg 253) Release Print/ DVD Production
Week 155/2 & 5/4 Have Read:  Dv Film: Chapter B (Pg 273) – The Sale FINAL – Production Notebooks Due
FINAL EXAM Wednesday May 1110:15 a.m. – 12:15 p.m., Final Exam Scheduled (11:45-12:45 Slot)Wrap Party & Screening

458 SFX Up Your Video

FLM 458 SFX Up Your Video        Kade Mendelowitz

Film 458 – Tuesday/Thursday 2:00pm-3:30, 3 credits

Spring Semester 2013 University of Alaska Fairbanks. E-mail: KMendelowitz@alaska.edu

 Prerequisites:

FLM 290, FLM 271 or 280; or permission of instructor. Cross-listed with JRN F458

Course Reading: (Required Text)

Adobe After Effects CS6 Classroom in a Book by the Adobe Creative Team
ISBN-10: 0321822439

Course Materials: (Required)

External Hard Drive, with at least 250GB available for this course exclusively.  USB 2 or USB 3 recommended.

Course Description:

An exploration into adding Special Effects to your video projects.

Course Goals:

Students will learn how to design and implement the use of Special Effects into their video projects.

Student Learning Outcomes:

  • Shooting and editing “green screen”
  • Adding complex title sequences
  • Creating a personal logo animation
  • Learn the basics of color grading
  • Developing a unique DVD menu design

Instructional Method:

This is primarily a lecture/demonstration course.  We will discuss how to develop an effect plan, design the appropriate effect, and use the tools which will allow us to create the effect.  Sometimes that will include studio (TV studio) production work, but mostly we’ll be editing in the media lab.

Digital component:

You will be expected (aka: requirement) to have a UAF e-mail account with Blackboard access.  Even if you do not use this address as your primary e-mail account, you should set it as a forward to the address of your choosing.

Course Policies:

M Class attendance and participation is expected.  After two unexcused absences, your grade will be affected.  Assignments are due the date assigned during class; late assignments will be accepted up to two weeks late at a reduction of 3 points per day (not per class)…get your assignments done in a timely fashion!

Grading & Evaluation:

This course will be graded including +/- values

Because attendance is expected; only absences affect your grade (in a negative way).  You are not rewarded for ‘just showing up’…be warned.

Note: If you are taking this as a Film Major Requirement (very likely) any final grade less than a “C” (including C-) will be considered unacceptable as a graduation requirement, and you will need to retake the course.

Rough Logo Project                                5%

Logo Project Complete                             20%

Green Screen Project                               15%

Menu Design                                      10%

Project Integration                                 15%

Participation                                      10%

Final Project DVD menu, logo integration, reel demo     25%