Foundations of Filmmaking

This unit introduces core filmmaking processes from concept development and preproduction planning through basic production techniques and an overview of postproduction and distribution. Students practice creating prospectuses, schedules, budgets, storyboards, camera and lighting setups, crew/cast plans, and test shoots to prepare for hands-on production and advanced workflows in subsequent units.

Learning Objectives

• Analyze film genres, screenplay elements, and distribution pathways to justify a project concept and compose an enticing prospectus
• Apply preproduction planning skills to develop a production schedule, basic budget estimate, location plan, and crew/casting strategy for a short film
• Demonstrate fundamental technical setups by selecting appropriate camera bodies, lenses, lighting setups, and sound configurations, and by conducting camera and sound tests and basic storyboards
• Evaluate postproduction and exhibition options—including editing workflows, sound finishing, effects, titling, festival submission, streaming, and press outreach—and propose a release strategy for an independent film