“FILM 202: Cinematography and Lighting” is a hands-on course designed to immerse students in the art and science of cinematography. This course equips students with the knowledge and practical skills required to capture visually stunning and compelling images for film and digital media.

Outline of Major Content Areas:

1. Introduction to Cinematography: Understanding the role of the cinematographer in filmmaking, the history of cinematography, and the impact of technology on the field.
2. Camera Operation: In-depth exploration of camera types, functions, and operation, including manual and automatic settings, focus, and exposure.
3. Shot Composition: Techniques for creating visually engaging shots, including framing, camera angles, movement, and lens selection.
4. Lighting Fundamentals: The art and science of film lighting, covering principles of illumination, color temperature, and lighting equipment.
5. Lighting Setups: Hands-on experience in designing and executing lighting setups for various scenes, including outdoor and indoor locations.
6. Visual Storytelling: How cinematography contributes to storytelling, mood, and atmosphere in filmmaking.
7. Cinematic Techniques: Exploring advanced cinematographic techniques, such as slow motion, time-lapse, and special effects.
8. Practical Filming: In-class filming exercises and projects to apply cinematographic principles and techniques.

Course Learning Outcomes:

By the end of FILM 202, students will:

1. Master Camera Operation: Proficiently operate cameras, including setting exposure, focus, and framing shots effectively.
2. Compose Visually Striking Shots: Understand and apply shot composition principles to create compelling and aesthetically pleasing images.
3. Manipulate Lighting: Design and execute lighting setups for various scenes, achieving desired moods and visual effects.
4. Enhance Storytelling: Recognize the impact of cinematography on storytelling and effectively contribute to a film’s narrative through visual choices.
5. Apply Cinematic Techniques: Demonstrate proficiency in advanced cinematic techniques to create unique and impactful visuals.
6. Collaborate Creatively: Work collaboratively with directors, production designers, and lighting crews to achieve a unified visual style for a film.

Methods for Assessing Student Learning:

Assessment in FILM 202 will involve a combination of practical and theoretical evaluations:

1. Cinematography Projects: Students will be assessed based on their performance in filming exercises and projects. These assessments will consider camera operation, shot composition, and lighting.
2. Lighting Setups: Evaluation of students’ ability to design and execute effective lighting setups for various scenarios.
3. Visual Storytelling Analysis: Analysis of how well students integrate cinematography into storytelling through scene analysis and discussion.
4. Examinations: Periodic examinations assessing students’ understanding of cinematography concepts, camera operation, and lighting techniques.
5. Peer Review: Participation in peer review sessions where students provide feedback on each other’s cinematography work.

FILM 202 provides students with the essential skills and knowledge required to excel in the field of cinematography, emphasizing the importance of visual storytelling, creative collaboration, and technical proficiency in filmmaking.