Material in this course will be available online in HTML format with tutorial movies in standards based-Quicktime (.mov) video files. No matter what computer and browser you are using, a Quicktime plug-in will be necessary. It is available at http://www.apple.com/quicktime/download/mac.html or for Windows at http://www.apple.com/quicktime/download/win.html. Using a standards-based internet browser like FireFox is also recommended although not absolutely necessary. Try what you are familar with first.

Studio DM (see next page) is equipped with dual processor, industry-standard Macintosh computers capable of doing professional level video editing, motion graphics, animation, and web, graphic, and sound design. This class is an introductory class in basic film/video pre and post production, so we will use the new version of the iLife '06 Software Suite of tools (iMovie, iPhoto, iTunes, iWeb, and iDVD) that make it extremely easy to produce a complete fairly-professional looking movie on a DVD. The San Jose Mercury in a recently published article gave the suite a rave review and said that there is nothing approaching it on a Windows platform. Nonetheless, there is software published by Sonic Solutions, Sony, Adobe Systems, and Pinnacle that can be used for this course if you so desire. Since it is impossible for us to keep up to date with all the different software on the market, you are somewhat on your own. Using Studio DM equipment while learning the techniques of digital film/video production will help you no matter what you decide to use at a later date.

Robert Beede

Telephone: (408) 848-4800, ext. 5604, or listen to a message at 408 848-4843.
Email: rbeede@gavilan.edu
Office: Studio DM, Li 128; Hours: MTWTh, 1:00 - 2:00 PM or Friday by appointment from 12:00 noon to 3:00 PM

Required: Books and study videos are available in Studio DM, Li 128.

Highly recommended for a more complete and intensive study of basic film making: Sherri Sheriden, Developing Short Digital Films, Pearson Education, published 2004, ISBN: 0-7357-1231-X.

Available from the Gavilan College Bookstore or see instructor.

1. Students will be able to analyze a story and create needed steps such as script writing and storyboarding as part of pre-production.
2. Students will critically analyze situations and artistically apply learned principles of movie producing such as camera position, lighting design, and on-screen movement.
3. Students will rationally solve problems of organizing video material into a continuous and logical progression using computer software as a tool.
4. Student will learn software for adding and/or creating audio/music material to a project so that it aesthetically enhances the visual content and storyline message.
5. Students will apply principles of motion graphics by adding titles and effects using computer software.
6. Students will critically review work and decide when it is complete and aesthetically pleasing.
7. Students will demonstrate knowledge of DVD Authoring software by creating an interactive DVD for presenting their project.