COURSE DESCRIPTION
Light and color are essential elements of filmmaking; this course examines how they fit into the production and editing process. Students in the course will get hands-on experience with a wide variety of lighting equipment and techniques as they learn how to use light cinematically. In the second half of the semester, students will use professional color grading software to further refine and polish their footage. The course will explore how to use color and light effectively, stylistically, and thoughtfully.
GOALS
For filmmakers, the effective use of color and light can inform theme, style, mood, and narrative. Students in this course will learn to use lighting and color grading in their own projects. The first major objective of the course is to gain proficiency with the equipment and techniques crucial to lighting during the production process. The second major objective is to become comfortable with the software used to color grade footage during the editing process, including Premiere Pro and SpeedGrade. Students will also be encouraged to think critically about lighting design and stylistic color grading and how to incorporate them into their work.
MEETING TIMES
Class meeting time: Fridays 8:30am – 10:52am, Marts 003
Office hours are Friday 2:00pm – 3:30pm, Marts 003. Other times are available by appointment.
MATERIALS
No books are required for the course and the software is available on computers in the Digital Video Editing Lab (Bertrand Library) and the Video Production Studio (Marts). You will need an external hard drive with a USB 3.0 connection for storing files and projects. I would suggest at least 500GB of storage space. 1TB drives are available on Amazon at at the Bertrand library equipment desk for around $60.
POLICIES AND GRADING
1. Because this course only meets once a week, attendance is especially important. This course will move from topic to topic quickly, without much time for review. If you must miss a class, please let me know so that we can make arrangements. Multiple absences will negatively affect your final grade.
2. Please come to class on time and prepared for discussion and work.
3. Projects are due on the date and time assigned. Late projects will be penalized.
4. All work must be individual and original. Any evidence of unauthorized collusion (working with another student without permission) or plagiarism (use of another’s ideas without acknowledgement) will lead to the procedures set up by the university for academic dishonesty.
Weekly projects: 40%
Mid-semester project: 20%
Final project: 30%
Attendance and participation: 10%
CONTACT INFORMATION
Daniel Nienhuis
dan014@bucknell.edu
Marts office: 570-577-7245