Cinematography Course

Our six-month, 25-session cinematography course offers in-depth training on essential filmmaking skills such as camera angles, lighting techniques, and visual storytelling. Designed for aspiring filmmakers, this course will equip you with the practical knowledge needed to bring your creative vision to life.
Duration: 6 Months
Sessions: 25
Frequency: Weekly
Cinematography Course

Course Objectives

  • Master the fundamentals of visual language in cinema.
  • Learn to use various camera angles and movements effectively.
  • Understand and apply professional lighting techniques.
  • Analyze and critique cinematic works with a critical eye.

By the end of this course, you’ll have the skills to create visually compelling films, tell stories through imagery, and understand the techniques used by top cinematographers around the world.

Course Structure

Month 1

Introduction to Cinematography

Class 1: Course Introduction and Overview

  • ⁠Course objectives and structure
  • ⁠Introduction to cinematography

Class 2: History of Cinematography

  • ⁠Evolution of cinematic techniques
  • ⁠Pioneers of cinematography

Class 3: Basics of Visual Language

  • Elements of visual storytelling
  • ⁠Composition and framing

Class 4: Understanding Camera Types and Lenses

  • Types of cameras used in filmmaking
  • Lens choices and their impact

Month 2

Camera Angles and Movements

Class 5: Static Camera Techniques

  • Tripod use and static shots
  • Examples and analysis

Class 6: Dynamic Camera Techniques

  • Handheld, Steadicam, and gimbals
  • Applications and impact on storytelling

Class 7: Camera Angles and Perspectives

  • High, low, and eye-level angles
  • Psychological effects

Class 8: Camera Movements

  • Panning, tilting, and tracking shots
  • Creative uses in film

Month 3

Lighting Techniques

Class 9: Introduction to Lighting

  • Basic principles of lighting
  • Types of light sources

Class 10: Three-Point Lighting

  • Key light, fill light, and back light
  • Practical exercises

Class 11: Advanced Lighting Techniques

  • ⁠Soft vs. hard lighting
  • Natural vs. artificial lighting

Class 12: Lighting for Mood and Atmosphere

  • Creating different moods with light
  • Case studies

Month 4

Visual Storytelling

Class 13: Mise-en-Scène

  • Arrangement of everything within the frame
  • Importance in storytelling

Class 14: Color Theory in Cinematography

  • Psychological impact of colors
  • Using color to enhance narrative

Class 15: Depth of Field and Focus

  • Shallow vs. deep focus
  • Rack focus techniques

Class 16: Visual Symbolism and Metaphors

  • Using visual elements to convey deeper meanings
  • Examples from notable films

Month 5

Practical Applications

Class 17: Planning and Pre-Visualization

  • Storyboarding and shot lists
  • Pre-visualization techniques

Class 18: Filming Techniques and Strategies

  • ⁠Shooting on location vs. in studio
  • Managing continuity and consistency

Class 19: Working with Actors and Crew

  • Director-cinematographer collaboration
  • Effective communication on set

Class 20: Editing and Post-Production’s development

  • Basics of editing for cinematographers
  • Color grading and visual effects

Month 6

Advanced Topics and Final Project

Class 21: Documentary Cinematography

  • Techniques specific to documentaries
  • Ethical considerations

Class 22: Experimental Cinematography**

  • ⁠Non-traditional techniques
  • Pushing boundaries of visual storytelling

Class 23: Analyzing Iconic Cinematography**

  • ⁠Study of acclaimed cinematographic works
  • Group analysis and discussion

Class 24: Final Project Planning

  • Guidelines for the final project
  • Individual consultations

Class 25: Final Project Presentation and Critique

  • Presentation of student projects
  • Group critique and feedback

Assignments & Projects

Our cinematography course emphasizes hands-on learning through a variety of assignments and projects.

  • Weekly Assignments: Practice techniques learned in class by applying them to short exercises.
  • Mid-Term Project: Analyze and present the cinematography of a chosen film.
  • Final Project: Create an original short film, showcasing your understanding of cinematography.

Throughout the course, you'll receive feedback from both instructors and peers, helping you improve your craft.

Additional Resources

To ensure you have the tools and knowledge needed, we provide a list of essential resources:

  • Textbooks: Learn from the best with recommended readings on cinematography.
  • Online Tutorials: Get hands-on with camera and lighting tutorials.
  • Influential Cinematographers: Study the works of top filmmakers and their groundbreaking techniques.

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Course Fees and Discounts
  • Single Course: LKR 50,000
  • Enrol in Two Courses: 10% discount
  • Enrol in Three Courses: 15% discount
  • Enrol in All Four Courses: 20% discount