Course Title: Shoot a wide range of screen content
Part B: Course Detail
Teaching Period: Term1 2021
Course Code: VART6391C
Course Title: Shoot a wide range of screen content
School: 375T Vocational Design and Social Context
Campus: City Campus
Program: C5350 - Diploma of Screen and Media
Course Contact: Andrew Harrison
Course Contact Phone: +61 3 9925 4350
Course Contact Email: andrew.harrison@rmit.edu.au
Name and Contact Details of All Other Relevant Staff
Teacher: Alex Joseski
Email: aleksander.joseski@rmit.edu.au
Nominal Hours: 70
Regardless of the mode of delivery, represent a guide to the relative teaching time and student effort required to successfully achieve a particular competency/module. This may include not only scheduled classes or workplace visits but also the amount of effort required to undertake, evaluate and complete all assessment requirements, including any non-classroom activities.
Pre-requisites and Co-requisites
None
Course Description
In this course you will cover the skills and knowledge required to prepare, set up and shoot a wide range of screen content using professional video equipment in a single camera environment.
It applies to individuals who usually work without supervision, either as employees of a production house or as freelancers on assignment. Individuals often need to collaborate with producers, directors and production professionals to achieve the camera, sound and lighting outcomes of the shoot.
National Codes, Titles, Elements and Performance Criteria
National Element Code & Title: |
CUACAM401 Shoot a wide range of screen content |
Element: |
1. Prepare for shoots |
Performance Criteria: |
1.1 Contribute ideas for the visual interpretation of production requirements in pre-production briefings 1.2 Appraise ideas for shots, taking into account the potential impact on costs, timelines, scripts and technical feasibility 1.3 Survey locations prior to shoots as required 1.4 Plan, prepare and pack camera equipment and accessories required for production requirements 1.5 Check equipment is in working order and fix minor faults or arrange to have them fixed 1.6 Select capture media appropriate and sufficient to meet production requirements 1.7 Anticipate work health and safety (WHS) requirements as they apply to preparation and implementation of shoots 1.8 Complete documentation in line with enterprise procedures |
Element: |
2. Set up shoots |
Performance Criteria: |
2.1 Survey sites and determine camera positions to achieve shots and compositions best suited to production requirements 2.2 Liaise with production personnel and talent to generate a range of ideas that offer creative solutions for particular productions 2.3 Appraise ideas for potential impact on costs, timelines, scripts, technical feasibility and suitability to meet production requirements 2.4 Implement lighting plans and install required cables 2.5 Confirm light temperature and exposures are sufficient for production requirements 2.6 Position microphones and conduct audio checks 2.7 Rehearse shots as required |
Element: |
3. Shoot content |
Performance Criteria: |
3.1 Check camera movements for implementing planned and rehearsed shots 3.2 Employ photographic principles and techniques to achieve technical and aesthetic requirements 3.3 Coordinate inputs from other crew members as required to achieve desired images 3.4 Confirm captured shots meet editing and other post-production requirements 3.5 Collaborate with other production personnel and respond to direction as required 3.6 Record audio or coordinate sound operations as required 3.7 Apply safe work practices at all times |
Element: |
4. Wrap up shoots |
Performance Criteria: |
4.1 Use appropriate manual handling techniques when packing and storing equipment 4.2 Label recorded content ready for post-production 4.3 Check locations are left in original state 4.4 Brief editors and producers on post-production issues 4.5 Complete necessary documentation 4.6 Review and reflect on own performance and note areas for improvement |
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this competency, you will have developed the skills and knowledge required to prepare, set up and shoot a wide range of screen content using professional video equipment in a single camera environment.
Details of Learning Activities
In this program, structured learning occurs in the classroom and through completion of assessment. However, as an independent learner you will also be engaged in unstructured activities such as private study and practice of technical skills required in using cameras, lighting and sound equipment and editing tools . You are also expected to familiarise yourself with different aspects of the screen and media industry. This includes spending time engaged in attending films and film festivals, watching streamed content, attending industry events and exhibitions and building relationships with industry bodies such as the Screen Producers Association and the Australian Society of Cinematographers.
In-class learning activities include, but are not limited to:
- demonstrations and practical application
- peer teaching and class presentations
- group discussions
- screenings
- online research
- independent project based work
- simulated work activites
- teacher directed group activities/projects
Out-of class activities include, but are not limited to:
- reading set texts
- research
- screenings
- production work
- independent project based work
Teaching Schedule
Please note: While your teacher will cover all the material in this schedule, the weekly order is subject to change depending on class needs and availability of speakers and resources.
Week |
Class Content – Semester 1 |
Assessment |
Week 1 |
Overview of the course, assessment and facilities. WHS: Risks, Hazards, safety requirements for correct equipment handling and technique, safety requirements for the TV studio (teaching space) Crew roles and responsibilities Introduction to HD video camera operations and handling: JVC GY-HM750 Introduction to professional lighting for digital video: safety, equipment handling, types of lights, lighting terminology
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Week 2 |
Revision of Week 1 WHS: Camera, tripod and field monitor (Risks and Hazards) Operation of professional production equipment: HD video camera and tripod Recording: SDHC cards, formatting, formats, slate Camera shot fundamentals: focus, frame, filters, f-stop Introduction to White Balance – theory and procedure Audio – on camera mic set up and operation Introduction to microphone theory Includes class exercises and discussion
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Week 3 |
Revision of Week 2 Introduction to aims of lighting and illuminating the subject lighting and cutting with reflector introduction to Composition and Framing Introduction to ND and UV filters Introduction to camera movement - pan and tilt; spirit levels and tension knobs Includes class exercises and discussion
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Week 4 |
Revision of Week 3 Electrical safety – volts, amps, watts, GPO’s cables WHS: Risks and Hazards lighting operation: heat, glare, stands, shot bags, liquids, cables, lighting placement, pack up procedure Outline of light reading tools and diagnostics Introduction to 3-point lighting: basic set up Lighting and illuminating the subject Camera and lighting plans Includes class exercises and discussion
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Assessment 1 – Written Test activated on Canvas |
Week 5 |
Revision of Week 4 Introduction to HD video camera operations and handling: Canon EOS 5D DSLR WHS: DSLR safe handling technique Composition of framing shot selection, camera height, camera angle 3-point lighting – illuminating the subject, offside and onside key, diffusion, scrim and gels Visual quality of light – hard and soft light sources Focal length and focal distance Lighting, exposure and depth of field Includes class exercises and discussion
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Assessment 1 to be completed and submitted on Canvas. Refer to assessment brief for delivery time |
Week 6 |
Revision of Week 5 Review and feedback of Assessment Task 1 Preparation for Assessment Task 2 (Operations Test) Exposure and ND filter Integrating lighting into the production: a natural style of subject illumination Introduction to correcting mix lighting (including gels) Includes class exercises and discussion
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Week 7 |
Assessment Task 2: Practical Operations Test Please read the assessment schedule (available on Canvas) for your assessment time and location. |
Assessment 2 to be completed during class time |
Week 8 |
Revision of Weeks 1 to 7 Review and feedback of Assessment Task 2 Integrating the sound kit into production Positioning the sound recordist and mic placement Lighting an interview lighting –offside key Two camera setups – practice sessions Includes class exercises and discussion
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Week 9 |
Assessment Task 3A: Interview Production Note: Rolling assessment will take place. Please read the Camera and Sound Assessment Schedule on Canvas for submission of assessment deliverables. |
Assessment Task 3A: Interview Production
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Week 10 |
Assessment Task 3A: Interview Production Note: Rolling assessment will take place. Please read the Camera and Sound Assessment Schedule on Canvas for submission of assessment deliverables. |
Assessment Task 3A: Interview Production
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Week 11 |
Assessment Task 3A: Interview Production Note: Rolling assessment will take place. Please read the Camera and Sound Assessment Schedule on Canvas for submission of assessment deliverables. |
Assessment Task 3A: Interview Production
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Week 12 |
Presentations: Class Presentations (of 3 minutes duration) to be conducted in your allocated week (refer to 3B Presentation Schedule on Canvas). |
Assessment 3B: Presentations (ongoing)
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Week 13 |
Presentations: Class Presentations (of 3 minutes duration) to be conducted in your allocated week (refer to 3B Presentation Schedule on Canvas). |
Assessment 3B: Presentations (ongoing)
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Week 14 |
Presentations: Class Presentations (of 3 minutes duration) to be conducted in your allocated week (refer to 3B Presentation Schedule on Canvas). |
Assessment 3B: Presentations (ongoing)
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Week 15 |
Introduction to Drama Shooting (Blocking) Camera Movement: Tripod mounted pan, tilt, height, angle and framing WHS: Shoulder mounted and handheld camera technique Introduction to lighting for drama Includes class exercises and discussion
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Week 16 |
Revision of Week 15 Lighting for dramatic mood and texture: single point lighting, position, height, visual quality and modelling Interpreting the brief – shot selection, composition, camera movement, exposure Location lighting – interiors: Mood, tone, and style Correcting mixed lighting: colour temperature and lighting gels Indirect and diffused lighting Includes class exercises and discussion
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Week |
Class Content – Semester 2 |
Assessment |
Week 1 |
Revision of Weeks 1 to 16 from Semester 1 Preparation of Webisode productions WHS: Camera production kit Location lighting: interiors Planning the shoot – camera and lighting plans Includes class exercises and discussion
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Week 2 |
Revision of Week 1 (Semester 2) Composition, focus pulling and camera movement Depth of field – focus and distance of subject, background and foreground, focal length, filters, exposure, shot selection and composition Location lighting – interiors / exteriors Includes class exercises and discussion
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Week 3 |
Revision of Week 2 (Semester 2) Continuity filming – 2-character set up Continuity filming – multiple character set up Crossing the line and the 180-degree rule Depth of field – interior and exterior locations Positioning the sound recordist and mic placement Shot selection, framing, composition and eye lines Lighting the scene – 2-character drama lighting Mixed lighting – colour temperature and lighting gels Visual and textual lighting continuity Includes class exercises and discussion
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Week 4 |
Revision of Week 3 (Semester 2) WHS: Revision – camera and sound recording, risks and hazards for handheld and shoulder mounted camera operation Revision: camera movement: shoulder mounted and handheld Maintaining focus, framing, continuity and composition Camera documents Includes class exercises and discussions
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Week 5 |
Assessment Task 4: Camera Movement, Composition and Lighting Review and feedback of Assessment 4 at conclusion of class |
Assessment Task 4: Camera Movement, Composition, and Lighting
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Week 6 |
Assessment Task 4: Camera Movement, Composition and Lighting Review and feedback of Assessment 4 at conclusion of class
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Assessment Task 4: Camera Movement, Composition, and Lighting |
Week 7 |
Assessment Task 5 preproduction – scene prep Scene prep and practice Includes class exercises and discussions
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Week 8 |
Assessment Task 5 preproduction – scene prep Scene prep and practice Includes class exercises and discussions
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Week 9 |
Assessment Task 5A – Webisode Production and Assessment. Note: Rolling assessment will take place. Please read the Camera and Sound Assessment Schedule on Canvas for filming days and times. |
Assessment Task 5A: Webisode Production (ongoing)
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Week 10 |
Assessment Task 5A – Webisode Production and Assessment. Note: Rolling assessment will take place. Please read the Camera and Sound Assessment Schedule on Canvas for filming days and times.
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Assessment Task 5A: Webisode Production (ongoing)
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Week 11 |
Assessment Task 5A – Webisode Production and Assessment. Note: Rolling assessment will take place. Please read the Camera and Sound Assessment Schedule on Canvas for filming days and times. |
Assessment Task 5A: Webisode Production (ongoing)
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Week 12 |
Assessment Task 5B – Presentation Review (Webisode). Note: Rolling presentations will take place. Please read the Camera and Sound Presentation Schedule on Canvas. |
Assessment Task 5B: Presentation Review (ongoing)
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Week 13 |
Assessment Task 5B – Presentation Review (Webisode). Note: Rolling presentations will take place. Please read the Camera and Sound Presentation Schedule on Canvas. |
Assessment Task 5B: Presentation Review (ongoing)
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Week 14 |
Assessment Task 5B – Presentation Review (Webisode). Note: Rolling presentations will take place. Please read the Camera and Sound Presentation Schedule on Canvas. |
Assessment Task 5B: Presentation Review (ongoing)
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Week 15 |
Assessment Task 5B – Presentation Review (Webisode). Note: Rolling presentations will take place. Please read the Camera and Sound Presentation Schedule on Canvas. |
Assessment Task 5B: Presentation Review (ongoing)
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Week 16 |
Semester overview Camera preview and workflow discussion Troubleshooting discussion
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Learning Resources
Prescribed Texts
References
Other Resources
Other resources for this course are available on Canvas.
Remember that the library has many resources that will help you.
The University Library has extensive resources and provides subject specialist expertise, research advice, help with referencing and support through:
The Learning Lab
https://www.rmit.edu.au/students/study-support/learning-lab
The Study Support Hub
https://www.rmit.edu.au/students/study-support/study-support-hub
English for uni workshops
https://www.rmit.edu.au/students/study-support/workshops/english-uni-workshops
Overview of Assessment
Assessment for this course is ongoing throughout the semester. Your knowledge of course content is assessed through participation in practical exercises, knowledge assessment tasks and practical team based projects.
Assessment Tasks
For each assessment task you will receive a detailed brief specifying requirements
To demonstrate competency in this course you will need to complete the following assessments to a satisfactory standard. You will receive feedback on all assessments.
Semester 1
Assessment Tasks
Assessment Task 1 - Unit Knowledge Questions.This assessment is a short-answer knowledge assessment designed to assess the knowledge required to prepare, set up and shoot a wide range of screen content using professional video equipment in a single camera environment. Due Date: week 5
Assessment Task 2 - Practical Operations Test. This is a timed practical test to demonstrate knowledge of safe setup, operation and pack up of video production equipment within a safe working environment. Due Date: week 7
Assessment Task 3 - Interview production. This is the practical filming, lighting and sound recording for an approved interview. Assessment for this project is divided into two (2) parts:
Part 1 - Filming interview. Due Dates weeks 9 to 11
Part 2 - In class Presentations. Due Dates weeks 12 to 14
Assessment Tasks 1, 2 and 3 to be finalised by no later than end of semester 1 Week 16.
Semester 2
Assessment Tasks
Assessment Task 4 - Composition, Lighting and Focus Pulling. This is a practical filming and lighting task completed on campus. Due Date: week 6
Assessment Task 5 - Webisode Production and Presentation. This is the production of an approved Webisode. Assessment for this project is divided into two (2) parts:
Part 1 - Filming webisode. Due Dates weeks 9 to 11
Part 2 - In class Presentations. Due Dates weeks 12 to 15
Assessment Tasks 4 and 5 to be finalised by no later than end of semester 2 Week 16.
Results that apply to courses that are delivered and assessed in accordance with competency based assessment are:
CA: Competency Achieved
NYC: Not Yet Competent
DNS: Did not submit for Assessment
Assessment Matrix
The assessment matrix demonstrated alignment of assessment tasks with the relevant Unit of Competency. These are available through the course contact in Program Coordination.
Other Information
Attendance:
Your learning experience will involve class-based teaching, discussion, demonstration and practical exercises
It is strongly advised that you attend all timetabled sessions. This will allow you to engage in the required learning activities, ensuring you the maximum opportunity to complete this course successfully.
Information about your studies:
You can access My Studies through the RMIT website for information about timetables, important dates, assessment dates, results and progress, Canvas etc.
https://www.rmit.edu.au/students
Assessment:
Information on assessment including Special consideration, Adjustments to assessment, (eg. applying for an extension of time):
https://www.rmit.edu.au/students/student-essentials/assessment-and-exams/assessment
Academic Integrity and Plagiarism:
RMIT University has a strict policy on plagiarism and academic integrity. Please refer to the website for more information on this policy.
https://www.rmit.edu.au/students/student-essentials/assessment-and-exams/academic-integrity
Credit Transfer and Recognition of Prior Learning:
Credit transfer is the recognition of previously completed formal learning (an officially accredited qualification).
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is an assessment process that allows you to demonstrate competence using the skills you have gained through experience in the workplace, voluntary work, informal or formal training or other life experiences.
Please speak to your teacher if you wish to discuss applying for Credit Transfer or RPL for the unit(s) of competency addressed in this course.
https://www.rmit.edu.au/students/student-essentials/enrolment/apply-for-credit
Course Overview: Access Course Overview