Everything You Need to Know

An eye light is the source of light that reflects off an eye’s surface. This light adds dimension and depth, bringing out the emotion of the subject.

Why Use An Eye Light?

Eyes seem unemotional and lifeless on film without an eye light. We look to the eyes of a person to gain insight into their emotions, which gives their words and actions context. The eye light is the key to illuminating emotions allowing us to better connect with characters. Scene from “Saving Private Ryan” Without eyelights, actors eyes can appear empty. You can also choose to create this effect if that’s what your story requires. For instance, in the movie “The Godfather,” the eyes stay dark. Viewers constantly have to question the characters’ intentions. Without that eye sparkle, characters feel mysterious and distant. “The Godfather” uses a high-angle lighting design that keeps Marlon Brando’s eyes always shaded. Scene from “The Godfather”

Why Not Just Use Three-Point Lighting?

The basic three-point lighting setup is great when you start to plan your lighting. However, this setup can lead to the brow shrouding the eyes, taking away any hint of light getting reflected back to the camera from the eyes. If you’re going for a dramatic setup, you’ll have very little fill light or none at all. Angling the key light to the side takes away any reflection from the eyes, making them look lifeless and dull. Enter the eye light, which solves the problem while maintaining the dramatic effect you’ve created. If you put a low-powered small light next to your camera, you create a sparkle of light that reflects back, bringing the eyes to life. Tools like eye filter attachments from light manufacturer Dedolight can help you create the ideal shot. The small flickers of light you see end up being hugely important to a scene, so you should keep them in mind when considering lighting schemes for sets. Don’t confuse an eye light with a “slash” of light across the actor’s eyes. This is a dated technique that filmmakers used to use to accentuate heightened emotion. You can find an example of a parody of this old style by Owen Roizman in the 1991 film “The Addams Family” when Anjelica Huston (as Morticia Addams) steps right into a slash of light that goes across her eyes.

History of the Eye Light

You’ll see eye lights in images from magazine photographs or on film. You can even see examples of eye lights used in music videos like Madonna’s “Vogue,” which was photographed by Pascal Lebègue and used a traditional ring light. Legend holds that the eye light started in with “The Lodger,” a 1944 film shot by Lucien Ballard. The film starred Merle Oberon who had small scars on her face as a result of a car accident. Ballard washed out the scars with a small lamp that he positioned right over the camera. The light also highligted Oberon’s eyes, giving birth to the eye light. Obtaining the perfect eye light is often harder than simply putting a light near a lens, though. Another great example of the use of eye light is the film ” I Origins” from cinematographer Markus Förderer. Scene from “I Origins”

Placement of the Eye Light

You’ll typically place an eye light on, or just slightly above, the position of the camera. You should consider the scene you’re shooting as well as the angle of your key light when deciding what to do. The eye light doesn’t need to be in an exact line with the key light, but it should come from generally the same direction. You can move the eye light to the side a bit more toward the key light if you’re using dramatic low-key lighting. This action extends the key light into the eyes of the subject, adding a sparkle that the key light can’t create itself. If you’re lighting your subject with a light from a high angle, you should move the eye light higher up so that you raise the eye sparkle above the eye’s pupil. You can experiment to create the most dramatic and realistic placements for your style. Learn more with this Lynda tutorial: The Important of Eye Light.

What Is a Catchlight?

It’s just another word for “eye light!” A catchlight adds dimension to the subject’s eye and the entire subject by extension. Catchlights and eye lights can come in any shape or size. It’s up to the photographer to decide how to capture the light. Photographers often use reflectors to bounce light into a subject’s eyes. Round, large reflectors create bigger catchlights. On the other hand, a small electronic flash creates a small catchlight. Tips for catchlight photography include:

• Place the eye light near the lens to ensure you can capture the reflected catchlight.
• Remember that the shape of the reflector or eye light will alter the catchlight shape as well.
• Try using a ring light attached to your camera lens; this is a common method of creating catchlight.

This video highlights different types of catchlights and how they work:

How to Capture Catchlight

Sure, catchlight appears accidentally from the lights you’re already using. Instead of leaving it up to chance, though, you should think about why you need a certain reflection. There are certain key steps to take to create the perfect eye light.

1. Aim the Source of Light Into Your Subject’s Eyes

You don’t want your subject to stare directly into a light, but make sure they’re facing the light, whether they’re inside or outside. If you’re filming indoors, ask the subject to stand facing a window. A 45-degree angle is best. The rest is shadows that look natural along with striking catchlights. If you’re filming outdoors, look for a shady area to produce catchlights. Having an actor stand under a tree or awning while facing the light will create eye lights that appear natural.

2. Design the Look of Your Eye Lights

How you decide the look of your catchlight will depend on your intended effect. Your look will be different depending on the type and tone of your scene. For example, a catchlight for a romantic scene will be different than one for a suspensful scene.

3. Use the Right Light Source

The size and shape of the lights you use will directly affect the size and shape of the light reflecting off the subject’s eyes. Use a reflector or independent light to full control the color, direction, and intensity of the catchlight. A reflector allows light to bounce into the eyes of your subject. It’s a necessary piece of equipment beyond being a light itself. Consider the type of reflector you need to use. A large reflector produces a large catchlight while a small reflector produces a smaller reflection. Generally, smaller works better for most intended effects. You also need to choose the color of your reflector. Silver reflectors are generally the best ones to use. However, you can use gold reflectors if you want to create warmer tones.

4. Experiment With the Position of Your Catchlight

You can experiment with various angles to find the perfect position for your eye light. One traditional method is thinking about eyes as if they are a clock and putting the light at the 10 o’clock or the 2 o’clock position. The most important thing is to make sure you don’t create something that looks unnatural. Usually, unnatural looks come when you go below the 9 o’clock and 3 o’clock positions. Still, you should experiment to find what works best for your particular story.

Adding Catchlights in Photoshop

You can use editing programs like Lightroom and Photoshop to take out extra catchlights that appear in one eye. You should strive to keep the one catchlight that appears most natural. Post-production software may help you enhance your eye light after capturing it. However, you should generally use software only if you couldn’t create that same effect at the moment. You can learn more about film and how you can improve your skills by applying to the Nashville Film Institute here.

Everything You Need to Know

Film and video editors are essential to any film production. As a film and video editor, you will edit and assemble moving images on media as well as edit or synchronize soundtracks with these images into a finished product.

Types of Film and Video Editors

Film and video editors work on many different kinds of productions. This includes:

• Feature films
• Television programs
• Music videos
• Corporate training videos
• Commercials

Responsibilities and Job Description: What Does a Film And Video Editor Do?

Work as an editor varies. At different times of the process, a film and video editor might:

• Receive a brief, an outline of footage, a script, a screenplay, or a shot list
• Assemble all raw footage
• Input and synchronize uncut rushes and sound
• Digitally cut files
• Create a “rough cut” or assembly edit
• Reorder and fine-tune content

Additionally, editors may:

• Oversee audio engineering and editing quality and progress
• Experiment with styles and techniques
• Write commentary/voiceover
• Select or suggest music

Online editing duties may also be required, such as:

• Finalizing technical aspects like footage or coloring
• Adding special effects

What to Expect as Film and Video Editor

You’ll conduct most of your work alone. You may work with a director and, on larger products, assistant editors, sound effects editors, and music editors. A significant amount of your work will take place in editing suites. You’ll also spend a lot of your time on computers. Once you’re more experienced, you may find opportunities to travel for work. If you’re freelancing, you may have times of intensive work mixed in with periods without work between projects. You may work on a few different productions simultaneously.

Working Conditions: Hours and Environment

Most film and video editors work in studios or offices, though some work may also be done in film libraries and archives. Your hours will depend on the production. You may be required to do shift work as well as work long hours, irregular hours, and/or overtime, especially when deadlines are coming up.

Salary

The median salary for film and video editors is just under $60,000 per year. A film and video editor position is not an entry-level job, but you’ll typically start at a low-paid level. This may be as a runner. Most editors work as freelancers and are paid on a contract basis. If you work via an agency, the agency will negotiate rates and take either a flat fee or a percentage.

How to Become a Film and Video Editor

To become a film and video editor, you will need to gain certain skills, abilities, and experience.

Education and Qualifications

There is not a specific degree required of film and video editors. However, most film and video editors have a bachelor’s degree or some college experience. Your commitment and determination will also serve as an important qualification. While not required, a degree that demonstrates you have skills necessary for success as a film and video editor is helpful. Relevant subjects include:

• Communications
• Film
• Fine art/visual art
• Graphic design
• Information technology or multimedia
• Media studies
• Photography
• Television

Skills, Knowledge, Abilities, and Personality

Your skills, interests, work style, and values will set you up for success as an editor. You’ll want to demonstrate aptitude in the following areas:

• Communications and media
• Computers and electronics
• Customer and personal service
• English language
• Production and processing

You will also want to possess:

• Adaptability and flexibility
• An ability to listen to others
• An ability to tolerate stress
• An ability to work well on a team and cooperate with others
• An ability to work well under pressure and meet deadlines
• An eye for detail
• Concentration and patience
• Creativity
• Critical thinking skills
• Dependability
• Passion and interest for film and video editing
• Self-motivation and initiative
• Time management and organizational skills
• Written and oral communication skills

If you enjoy activities that include designing and creating, and you like to make your own rules, film and video editing may be right for you!

Technology Skills

Having experience with the latest technology will set you apart from the competition when applying for jobs. You will also need to have general computer literacy and be able to work with digital equipment. You may need to know how to use certain software, including:

• Adobe products like AfterEffects, Illustrator, and Photoshop
• AJAX
• Apple Final Cut Pro
• Avid
• Hypertext markup language HTML

Physical Requirements

As an editor, you will need to have normal color vision. This is because you need to color correct raw footage.

Work Experience

Determination is essential to success in editing. You will need to show a willingness to get involved and do even basic tasks. Work experience in other areas of media production allows you to demonstrate this dedication, and it helps you decide if the intensity and precision an editing job requires is right for you. When you’re applying for jobs, employers will expect you to have pre-entry experience and evidence of working on film or video production or post-production. They’ll prefer to see an up-to-date, well-prepared showreel.

Employers and Job Outlook

Overall, job growth is occurring in this field. The growth of internet-only platforms like streaming services may increase work opportunities for editors. Companies employ film and video editors in the following fields:

• Animation
• Broadcast
• Film
• Post-production
• Computer and video games

You may also find employment opportunities with independent production companies. Larger independent companies as well certain post-production companies employ a few editors in-house, offering long-term contracts. Film and broadcast companies also employ their own editors. However, most companies use freelance editors regularly, and some companies exclusively work with freelance editors. Freelance opportunities can help you build a portfolio. You’ll often come across tough competition for all jobs in this field, even entry-level positions like a runner. You should send applications to as many places as you can. Industry resources include:

• Occupational Outlook Handbook
• IATSE
• KFTV
• American Advertising Federation
• Writers Guild of America East
• Motion Picture Editors Guild
• Motion Picture Sound Editors
• The National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences
• National Association of Broadcasters
• National Association of Broadcast Employees and Technicians – Communications Workers of America
• Wedding and Event Videographers Association International

Networking and getting to know people in the industry, then developing good working relationships, is key to finding ongoing work. Once you have some experience as a freelancer, you can also advertise.

Professional Development

Learning on the job while you’re working will help you develop relevant skills for editing. You’ll want to experiment with your own work while observing experienced professionals. This combination will help you hone both your creative and technical skills. You can develop your knowledge of relevant topics to position yourself for success. Topics include:

• Finance for freelancers
• How to use software editing packages
• Post-production audio
• Visual effects

You will also want to make sure you keep your knowledge of new equipment and technology up to date. To open more employment opportunities, you can learn more about camera or sound work as well. Doing so will also help you cultivate a network of contacts.

Career Prospects and Progression

Some essentials to success in the field of film and video editing include building a portfolio and networking. You will generally start your career as a trainee or runner. From there, you can work your way to an assistant editor position. Editors typically work as an assistant editor for about three or four years before progressing to become a qualified editor. No matter your future goals, you will need to be willing to start at the bottom and take a proactive approach. This field is constantly changing, so this willingness is key to developing your career. You may also increase your chances of landing a job in the early stages of your career if you’re willing to relocate.

Job Progression in Broadcasting or Post-Production Companies

If you’re working at a larger company, you may progress from a role as a runner to digitizer or assistant editor and then to senior editor. Larger companies offer a structure in terms of a career path. An experienced in-house film and video editor in a big company may eventually move into a management position.

Job Progression for Freelancers

Freelancers typically progress from working on smaller productions into larger and/or more prestigious projects. As a freelancer, it’s essential that you build your reputation while you develop networking skills. Having strong working relationships with everyone from production managers to producers to freelance directors is so important. These people can often take their preferred editors onto new projects with them. If you’re interested in becoming a film and video editor, you can learn more about film and how you can improve your skills by applying to the Nashville Film Institute.

When it comes to learning how to edit videos, video editors play an essential role in making the audience feel connected to the film. If you’re interested in a film editing career, read on to learn how to edit videos.

Top 15 Best Video Editing Software for Beginners

With the right software, you can create a professional video for a variety of purposes. Here are some of the best video editing software platforms on the market:

1. Apple iMovie

Standout features: Apple product integration, audio and social platform integration, green screen

Pricing: Free when you buy a Mac

This sleek software features 10 high-fidelity filters and can transfer content seamlessly with your other Mac devices. Apple iMovie also pairs well with other Mac software, like iTunes and Garage Band, to help you add various tracks and sounds.

2. Lumen5

Standout features: Drag-and-drop interface, blog to social media promo creation

Pricing: Free for unlimited 480p videos, $50 per month for 1080p HD videos

Lumen5 features a drag-and-drop interface that allows you to create quick social media promos. It’s great for bloggers who want to turn their posts into social media promos. If you’re editing videos to market products and services, here are some great tips from WordStream to help you, a video that they made using the Lumen5 software.

3. NeroVideo

Standout features: Low cost

Pricing: One-time charge of $49.99

NeroVideo comes with plenty of fun features and effects to help you make a quality video. Offered at a low price, it’s a great choice for new video editors.

4. Corel VideoStudio

Standout features: Motion tracking

Pricing: One-time charge of $51.99

Corel VideoStudio features 360-degree virtual reality (VR) and 4K support and motion-tracking capabilities. While you can get motion tracking with other software, Corel VideoStudio’s capabilities are some of the best.

5. Wondershare’s Filmora

Standout features: Mobile and screen editing, easy mode, title tool

Pricing: Lifetime license starting at $59.99 or $39.99 for a year

Filmora features a user-friendly interface with plenty of high-tech features like overlays, title tools, motion elements, filters, and royalty-free music. Overall, this high-quality software offers a simple video editing experience.

6. CyberLink PowerDirector

Standout features: Quick rendering, plenty of effects

Pricing: One-time charge of $79.99

CyberLink PowerDirector offers fast rendering and comes with a straightforward interface and an impressive amount of options and effects.

7. Adobe Premiere Elements

Standout features: Simple user interface, “guided edits”

Pricing: One-time charge of $79.99

Adobe Premiere Elements comes with plenty of features for new editors. It also has a Guided Edits feature, which offers assistance throughout the editing process.

8. Pinnacle Studio

Standout features: Quick rendering speeds, plenty of features and support

Pricing: One-time charge of $129.95

Pinnacle Studio comes with several desirable capabilities, like lightning-fast rendering, 360-degree VR support, 4K support, and motion tracking. It also has a user-friendly interface that is optimal for new editors.

9. Adobe Premiere Pro

Standout features: Title tool, seamless Apple product integration, straightforward user interface, multi-cam and coloring options

Pricing: $19.99 per month

This top-tier video software offers everything from a multi-cam feature to a color adjustment and manipulation tool. It also has an easy-to-use interface, seamless integration with apps like Photoshop and After Effects, and plenty of titling options.

10. Apple Final Cut Pro X

Standout features: Apple touch bar support, magnetic timeline

Pricing: One-time charge of $299.99

Apple Final Cut Pro X offers plenty of power and comes with an easy-to-use interface. If you’re an Apple product user, you can even use the Touch Bar support throughout the editing process.

Other Software

Outside of this list of software, there are plenty of other programs to try, including:

1. VideoStudio
2. Clipchamp
3. AVID Media Composer
   
4. Windows Movie Maker
   
5. Windows 10 hidden video editor

Getting Started

Before you jump into editing, consider the following questions to help you better prepare for the process:

1. What Type of Video Are You Editing?

Consider the video content you’re working with. While some video content may require more advanced software, others might be fine with something more simple.

2. What Are the Recommended Computer Specs for Video Editing?

To find the best computer specs, consider the software you’re using and what it recommends. Here’s a general idea for what you should look for:

• Processor: A recent Intel Core i5 or Core i7 works well for video editing. If you’re on a budget, consider a newer AMD Ryzen 5.
• RAM: While you should aim for at least 8GB, the more RAM you have, the better. With a complex or very high-resolution video, opt for 16GB or more.
• Graphics card: Depending on what you’re doing and the software you’re using, you may or may not need a graphics card. If you’re doing more rendering or using DaVinci Resolve, opt for GTX 1650 or an RX 570 at the minimum.
• Storage: While you can use hard disc drives, solid-state drives are faster. If you plan on editing a lot of videos, opt for as much storage space as you can afford.
• Other considerations: If you plan to upload videos online, make sure you have a fast internet connection. If you’re transferring to and from various storage devices, opt for fast ports like a USB 3.1, USB-C, or Thunderbolt.

3. What Features Do You Need the Program to Have?

Select a software program that’s familiar to you or that seems easy to learn. Make sure the software’s abilities match your ambition for the video.

How to Edit a Video

Typically, the editing process varies depending on the software you use and the type of video you’re creating. While the process for making a documentary may differ from the creation of a YouTube video, you’ll typically follow the same general steps. Here are some basic steps to follow based on your computer system, whether you’re a Mac or a Windows user:

1. Record at the Right Size When You Film

Whether you’re making a film, a commercial, YouTube video, or a documentary, it’s important to have quality footage. Make sure you record, edit, and produce using the same dimensions. Staying proportional helps create consistency.

2. Find the Right Software

Consider what software and tools you plan to use during the editing process. Make sure your hardware and software are strong enough to handle the frames you shoot. If your setup isn’t working, consider upgrading to a new computer or laptop.

3. Create a Project, and Import Your Footage

Open the software, name the project, and import all relevant footage. You may also be asked to set a frame rate. Make sure the frame rate you use is optimal for the type of video you’re creating.

4. Organize Your Footage

Throughout the editing process, make sure to stay organized. Create separate folders or “bins” for certain types of shots to organize your content and make the editing process quicker. Then, label each file, clip, sound, music track, and image. Place them in folders and organize them in a way that helps you find them quickly when you need them.

5. Go Through Your Footage

Watch your footage and determine what you want to include. Then, mark each clip you want to use. This makes it easier to find what you need as you piece together your video.

6. Assemble Your Video

Cut and place your footage by referring to your marked clips and dragging them to the appropriate part of the video timeline. Drag each clip until it’s in the right place.

To speed up the editing process, use keyboard shortcuts or invest in a keyboard that’s more conducive to your editing commands. In addition, make sure to save your video content regularly to avoid losing footage. Consider following the “321 rule,” which involves you making three copies in at least two different places, one of which is housed elsewhere.

7. Clean Up Your Video

Go through your video and make proper adjustments for smooth playback. Cut any footage that doesn’t flow with the rest of the video and the overall tone you’re trying to present.

8. Focus your viewer’s attention

Consider the type of video you’re editing and what your viewers want or need to see at certain times. Perhaps you zoom in on specific items during an instructional video. Or maybe your voice-over references a specific person, so you include a shot of that person so the audience makes the logical connection.

9. Use b-roll footage

Depending on your content, including b-roll footage can also help audiences make logical connections. If you have b-roll of the location your video is set in, this can orient audiences.

10. Add Effects

Don’t be afraid to take a chance and try new things when you start editing. Get creative and add the finishing touches to your video by including text, transitions, filters, tracking animation, background music, or sounds. Make sure to keep it simple and save all your tricks for when they make the most sense within your content. Essentially, refrain from overusing effects and transitions.

If your video seems to lag, change your transitions or quicken the pace of the video. In addition, look for places where color correction can help create a more consistent look in your video. You should also color grade during the final edit to make your video look more professional.

11. Export Your Video

Avoid the curse of perfection. As much as you want to present your client or boss with a professional video, know when it’s time to step away from the computer. Once you’re happy with your video, export the final product, or share it on the appropriate platform.

A Note on How to Edit Non-Scripted Videos

When you create non-scripted videos, you may need to record dialogue during editing. If you make a mistake, consider pausing and clapping so the recorder picks up the louder audio. When you upload it to your video editor software, it’ll show a spike in audio, which makes you see all of your errors much more easily.

Final Thoughts

As a beginner, you have plenty of video editing software to choose from. Make sure to consider your level of expertise and how much time you’re willing to spend on learning a new program.

Once you understand the editing process, continue practicing your skills at home. If you want further instruction on video editing, learn more about the programs we offer at the Nashville Film Institute.

A film director is the person in charge of a production set – making all of the big decisions, directing the action of the film and cast and crew, and quite literally bringing a script to life by controlling the project’s dramatic and artistic elements. In order to earn your place in such an essential role, it’s important that you spend some time learning about the industry and developing your skills.

How to Become a Director

To become a successful director, you should follow a few critical steps, such as:

1. Learn the Basics of Cinema and Film

Learning film history and theory are key to become a successful director. By familiarizing yourself with the lingo, equipment, and strategies often used in this line of work, you will be better prepared when it comes time to make your own masterpieces. Additionally, it can also be helpful to understand exactly what kind of role that directors play during every stage of production. The stages and responsibilities are:

• Development: The director often works with a producer, storyboard artist, and graphic designer to create a vision for the project, called a pitch deck.
• Pre-Production: Pre-production for a director involves working with all of the production crew heads to decide on key details.
• Principal Photography: Production, also known as principal photography, is when the actual filming takes place. Each day, the director goes through the dailies to choose scenes for the film editor.
• Post-Production: During post-production, edits are made to create the final product. Cinematographers and colorists work to ensure the imagery is properly colorized.
• Distribution: This is when the director follows the film to promotional events and festivals to answer questions about their artistic choices.

2. Watch Films Critically

Instead of focusing on the most notable elements, consider things like the mise-en-scène, which literally translates as “placing on stage,” as well as the soundtrack and the dialogue.

3. Develop Your Soft Skills

Directors should possess a number of skills and personality traits, like communication, self-motivation, focus, and problem-solving. Communication and interpersonal skills are especially important because directors deal with a variety of people, and, in a lot of ways, their role resembles a management position. Directors have to work with a number of key production personnel, including the:

• Visual effects supervisor
• Composer
• Colorist
• Sound designer
• Re-recording mixer
• Production sound mixer
• Production designer
• Storyboard artists
• Head costume designer
• Gaffer
• Key grip
• Cinematographer
• Producer
• Casting directors
• Associates

4. Make Your Own Short Films

5. Learn Acting Lingo and How to Act

Film directors and actors work closely together. By learning how to act, you can learn the most effective ways to direct actors. Directors that would rather focus on imagery than dealing with actors may be more interested in becoming a cinematographer.

6. Read Other People’s Scripts

You can find screenplays on websites like:

• The Daily Script
• The Internet Movie Script Database

7. Develop Your Storytelling Skills by Writing Screenplays

Learn how to write a screenplay and then put those skills to use as often as you can. Once you’ve written a script, have others read it and evaluate your work.

8. Stay Current With the Trades

Popular trade publications include:

• Variety
• Hollywood Reporter
• Deadline

9. Consider Film School

In most cases, it’s wise for directors to attend film school and earn at least a bachelor’s degree. Not only do film schools provide essential technical training, but they also give you plenty of opportunities to practice the craft and receive constructive criticism. Aspiring film directors can pursue a wide range of digital media degree programs, including:

• Online media production classes
• Master’s degrees in film and video editing

10. Gain Industry Experience

Even now-famous directors got their start somewhere. Many aspiring directors start as a production assistant. Additionally, within the directing department, there is a hierarchy, with the director at the top. Under them there is a:

• First assistant director
• Second assistant director
• Third assistant director

11. Find Your Directing Style

Finding your personal voice or style is a process of trial and error. Experiment with different approaches, make the experience personal, draw from your influences, and connect with your characters.

12. Network

Most of the time, you are afforded more opportunities when you know more people, which is why it’s important for you to network by attending industry events.

13. Get Other Directing Gigs

Realistically, experience is the main way to start getting paid gigs as a director. Apply for programs and pick up directing work where you can find it to gain valuable experience; just make sure that you gain exposure. Once they start getting paid gigs, directors make about $74,420 per year on average. They can be found on the set of:

• A TV Drama or Film: Film directors are usually freelance and in charge of managing a number of departments.
• Commercials and Promos: Agencies usually have a list of preferred directors that they work with for certain clients.
• A Documentary: When working on a documentary, directors typically have a lot of creative freedom and are often involved in the project from conception.
• A Corporate Film: These projects often include:
  • Online commercials
  • Charity films
  • Promotional content
  • Internal communications
  • Industrial films
  • Consumer testimonials
  • Training videos

14. Continue to Make More Advanced Short Films

Collaborate with other people you’ve met in the industry to practice your skills and add to your reel.

15. Enter Your Work Into Film Festivals

If you make a short you’re proud of, enter it into film festivals to build your reputation and gain recognition.

16. Build a Strong Portfolio, or Reel

Producers and film distributors are really just looking for proof that you can make something worthwhile. Since this is a director’s portfolio, include:

• Education
• Resume
• Contact information
• Clips that showcase your writing, cinematography, and editing skills
• Achievements and film festivals entered
• Additional experience
• Storyboards and stills

17. Hire an Agent

An agent can really help you network and get the exposure you need.

18. Don’t Get Discouraged by a Lack of Recognition

Directors are rarely recognized as much as actors for their wonderful work.

19. Join the Union

Become a member of the Directors Guild of America after you have established your career. Some additional helpful resources for directors include:

• Editors Guild
• The American Society of Cinematographers
• European Film Agencies
• University Film and Video Association
• Australian Directors’ Guild

20. Advance Your Career

The best way to advance as a director is to foster positive, trusting relationships. A director’s lifestyle varies depending on how many projects they’re working on at the time. They could constantly work for months and then have no work for a while until the next project starts.

21. Enjoy Your Dream Job

You’ve accomplished your goal, so don’t forget to take some time to appreciate how far you’ve come. Directing is undoubtedly one of the most important jobs in the industry and for good reason. It takes skills, talent, and experience to become a successful director. At Nashville Film Institute, we are as passionate about this incredible industry as you are. We’re here to help you hone your raw talent and teach you the technical skills you need to excel. Apply today and kickstart your film career.

61 Best Schools to Consider

Getting a screenwriting degree can open many doors for you in the world of film and television. The courses you take when getting a screenwriting degree help you to think critically and creatively, prepare you for a job post-college, and connect you with lifelong contacts you can turn to when you are looking for a job or want feedback on your writing later in your career.

61 Best Academic Screenwriting Programs in the U.S.

Here’s a list of schools with screenwriting and filmmaking degrees in the United States:

1. University of Southern California — Los Angeles, California

USC is one of the most popular schools for filmmaking, boasting alumni like Ron Howard and George Lucas, and it’s known for its screenwriting programs. Offering both undergraduate and graduate degrees, coursework includes dramatic writing, plot structure, video production, film economics, and film history.

2. University of California — Los Angeles, California

The other major film school is UCLA, which offers a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) degree in Screenwriting through their prestigious School of Theater, Film, and Television. UCLA also has a Professional Studies Program in Screenwriting where students focus solely on writing screenplays.

3. Loyola Marymount University — Los Angeles, California

Loyola Marymount‘s School of Film & Television offers an MFA in Screenwriting. Part of the portfolio students build in the program includes screenplays and teleplays.

4. New York Film Academy — New York City, New York

NYFA offers an MFA in Screenwriting with courses that focus on pitching, film studies, and acting. Students complete a short film or scene from a script by writing, directing, and editing it. NYFA students can also take advantage of online courses in screenwriting.

5. Chapman University — Orange, California

Chapman University offers a graduate degree in screenwriting with courses in cinematography, production, design, and directing.

6. New York University — New York City, New York

NYU‘s Tisch School of the Arts offers a certificate in dramatic writing with an emphasis on screenwriting. Focusing on character development and story conflicts, students will develop story ideas and read and analyze screenplays.

7. Emerson College — Boston, Massachusetts

The Department of Visual Media & Arts at Emerson College offers a screenwriting certificate program. This series of workshops give students the tools to grow their writing skills and practice form and structure.

8. Boston University — Boston, Massachusetts

Boston University‘s College of Communication offers an MFA in Screenwriting. Students complete several screenplays and can compete in the Fleder-Rosenberg screenplay contest. Successful students from this program include Jason Hellerman, who wrote “Shovel Buddies.”

9. American Film Institute — Los Angeles, California

The American Film Institute offers a screenwriting fellowship where students write short screenplays and work with students in directing and producing fellowships to finalize their work.

10. The University of Texas — Austin, Texas

The MFA in Screenwriting program at UT Austin is highly competitive because they only accept around seven students each year. Students learn about characterization, conflict, and adaptation while writing three original screenplays.

Other Playwriting and Screenwriting Schools in America

Many schools may offer both playwriting and screenwriting, often incorporating both types of classes into a degree’s coursework. Some schools may only offer undergraduate filmmaking, which can provide a great foundation for future professional screenwriters, or in theater, where students learn writing for the stage. Other schools may offer graduate degrees that specialize in either screenwriting or playwriting, with some schools incorporating both genres into a single program. Here are some other programs that offer playwriting and/or screenwriting to consider:

1. The University of Michigan — Ann Arbor, Michigan: Screenwriting and Playwriting
2. Emory University — Atlanta, Georgia: Screenwriting and Playwriting
3. University of Cincinnati — Cincinnati, Ohio: Screenwriting
4. Drexel University — Philadelphia, Pennsylvania: Screenwriting and Playwriting
5. DePaul University — Chicago, Illinois: Screenwriting and Playwriting
6. Ohio University — Athens, Ohio: Screenwriting and Playwriting
7. Bennington College — Bennington, Vermont: Screenwriting
8. Franklin College — Franklin, Indiana: Scriptwriting
9. Judson University — Elgin, Illinois: Screenwriting and Playwriting
10. Pacific Union College — Angwin, California: Screenwriting
11. Central Washington University — Ellensburg, Washington: Screenwriting
12. Yavapai College — Prescott, Arizona: Screenwriting
13. Metropolitan State University — St. Paul, Minnesota: Screenwriting
14. Scottsdale Community College — Scottsdale, Arizona: Screenwriting
15. Metropolitan Community College — Omaha, Nebraska: Screenwriting
16. The Savannah College of Art & Design — Savannah, Georgia: Dramatic Writing
17. University of the Arts — Philadelphia, Pennsylvania: Screenwriting
18. Point Park University — Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania: Screenwriting and Playwriting
19. Academy of Art University — San Francisco, California: Screenwriting
20. Columbia College — Chicago, Illinois: Playwriting
21. Pellissippi State Community College — Knoxville, Tennessee: Scriptwriting
22. Minneapolis Community & Technical College — Minneapolis, Minnesota: Screenwriting and Playwriting
23. SUNY Purchase College — Harrison, New York: Screenwriting and Playwriting
24. New York Film Academy — Los Angeles, California: Screenwriting
25. Bard College at Simon’s Rock — Great Barrington, Massachusetts: Screenwriting
26. Marlboro College — Marlboro, Vermont: Screenwriting
27. Harvard University — Cambridge, Massachusetts: Screenwriting
28. Northwestern University — Evanston, Illinois: Screenwriting and Playwriting
29. Full Sail University — Winter Park, Florida: Screenwriting
30. Regent University — Virginia Beach, Virginia: Screenwriting
31. Texas Tech University — Lubbock, Texas: Playwriting
32. Yale University — New Haven, Connecticut: Playwriting
33. The University of Iowa — Iowa City, Iowa: Screenwriting and Playwriting
34. Brown University — Providence, Rhode Island: Playwriting
35. Carnegie Mellon University — Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania: Dramatic Writing
36. Pepperdine University — Malibu, California: Screenwriting
37. University of California — San Diego, California: Screenwriting and Playwriting
38. Florida State University — Tallahassee, Florida: Screenwriting
39. The New School — New York City, New York: Screenwriting and Playwriting
40. California State University — Fullerton, California: Screenwriting
41. Catholic University of America — Washington, D.C.: Playwriting
42. California State University — Northridge, California: Screenwriting
43. CUNY Hunter College — New York City, New York: Playwriting
44. University of New Mexico — Albuquerque, New Mexico: Dramatic Writing
45. Palm Beach Atlantic University — West Palm Beach, Florida: Screenwriting
46. Hollins University — Roanoke, Virginia: Screenwriting and Playwriting
47. The Julliard School — New York City, New York: Playwriting
48. National University — La Jolla, California: Screenwriting
49. California Institute of the Arts — Santa Clarita, California: Screenwriting and Playwriting
50. University of Alaska — Anchorage, Alaska: Playwriting
51. Northwest College — Powell, Wyoming: Screenwriting

Is a Screenwriting Degree Required to Be a Writer in Hollywood?

So you want to be a professional screenwriter, but you may not know which path is best for you. Although it may help, you don’t necessarily need a screenwriting degree to find success as a screenwriter. Some things you do need to succeed in this venture include personal experience, natural writing talent, a unique voice, a strong work ethic, and some level of training, whether it be a formal degree, a few workshops under your belt, or work in the industry. The pros of earning a degree include:

• You surrounded yourself with like-minded, writing-focused professionals who you can build strong friendships and industry connections with.
• You get to analyze stories, plot, and characters to improve your own, often branching out into different genres.
• You establish good writing habits, including ways to get rid of writer’s block.
• You learn how to format a script with industry-standard guidelines.
• You develop important business techniques, like pitching, writing script coverage, and registering your script with an industry organization.
• You can earn a degree that allows you to teach others how to improve their writing.

Here are even more reasons to get a degree, plus some other degree programs to consider instead. An in-depth checklist like this can help you figure out what you want and need in a screenwriting degree. If you’re ready to pursue a screenwriting degree, there is no time like the present to consider all your options and forge the path the best fits your needs. You can learn more about film and how you can improve your skills by applying to the Nashville Film Institute here.

Follow the steps below to learn how to make a green screen to help you save money for the film!

Get a Backdrop

Select a bright green colored backdrop large enough to cover your natural background. This will form your green screen. Several items make good backdrops, including:

• Fabrics. Heavy fabrics provide good coverage but may wrinkle. Lighter fabrics resist creasing but provide inferior coverage. Dull fabrics, such as muslin, are better than shiny fabrics, such as polyester satins, which reflect light.
• Collapsible panels
• Foam poster boards
• Colored walls

Note: Make sure your actors aren’t wearing green clothes. Otherwise, they may blend into your background!

If your backdrop isn’t freestanding, you’ll need to mount it. Consider the following setups:

• A clothesline and clothespins
• A wall and wire nails, thumbtacks, or hanging strips

Choose Your Camera

Select a digital camera that captures high-definition video (720p or higher) at a frame rate of at least 24 fps. Your camera should also save files in a format your green screen software can import, such as MP4 or MOV. Digital camcorders, smartphones, and webcams may all suit your needs.

Set up lighting to ensure your green screen is well-lit. The sun provides a good free lighting source for outdoor shoots. Clouds naturally diffuse the light and reduce shadows.

Clamp-on work lights with high-output LED bulbs, sold through most hardware stores, work well for indoor shoots. Add a diffusion filter to each light to effectively remove shadows. Then direct your lights to the part of your screen where your actors or presenters will stand. Removing shadows around them before filming reduces editing time.

Get the Right Software

Chroma key video editing software lets you remove the green screen and add your preferred background. Many of these programs have their own themes and templates. Some also let you remove shadows and perform other edits.

Some of the most popular chroma key programs are:

• Camtasia 2020
• iMovie
• Final Cut Pro X
• Wondershare Filmora9
• VSDC Video Editor
  
• Screencast-O-Matic Video Editor

Affordable Green Screen Kits

Some companies sell green screen kits. These bundle together items that aspiring filmmakers need for green screen filming. These are some of the most common affordable green screen skits.

The YouTube Kit

YouTube kits, such as this Emart kit, are the most affordable and basic green screen kits. Targeted at entry-level YouTubers, these kits suit people wanting a simple and accessible green screen kit. They typically include:

• Backdrop stands with support bars
• Green screen cloth backgrounds
• Lights with stands
• Light diffusion filters
• Light clamps
• Carrying cases

The Popup Green Screen

Popup green screen kits, such as this Fancierstudio kit, aren’t as comprehensive but they have better green screens. The collapsible design makes the kits easily portable. The expanded screens are also smooth and free of wrinkles, reducing post-production work. Most have a green side for green screen and a blue side for blue screen. They usually contain only the screen and a carrying case.

Downloading Green Screen Backgrounds From a Website

Downloading green screen backgrounds from websites is another option for amateur filmmakers. Simply choose the green screen footage you’re interested in and insert it into your presentation. This approach saves you filming footage yourself, but it is limiting. Downloadable green screen backgrounds are often very short and they don’t give filmmakers full creative control.

Downloadable green screen backgrounds are available from:

• Storyblocks
• Shutterstock
• Filmstocks

How to Use a Green Screen Video to Composite

Once you have your green screen video, whether you shot it yourself or downloaded one, you’re ready to composite. This process involves importing your green screen video into your chroma key video editing software.

Individual programs differ, but the process usually involves the following steps:

1. Start your video editor and create a new project.
2. Import background video and green screen footage to your media library.
3. Drag and drop background footage into the first track.
4. Drag and drop green screen footage to the second track.
5. Select the green screen feature and make the green screen transparent.
6. Adjust factors such as transparency, shadow, edge thickness, and offset until your background looks right.
7. Position the background clip on the green screen footage.
8. Resize the green screen clip if required so your footage looks to scale.
9. Export your complete video. Select a common format, such as MP4 or MOV, or upload it directly to a video sharing platform.

How to Shoot a Green Screen Scene

Once you’ve created your green screen setup, it’s time for filming. Mounting your camera on a tripod or device mount helps it stay still for professional-looking footage. Once the camera is in place, let your actors perform the scene. Pay close attention to every detail of your footage to make sure it looks its best. It’s much easier to reshoot scenes now, if required, than set them up again later.

Uses of Green Screen

A green screen is a virtual background that lets you digitally integrate visual elements into a camera shot. You can easily learn how to make a green screen with some simple tools and ordinary household items. A green screen is sometimes called a blue screen, chroma key, or chroma key compositing. This effect is often used in films, weather reports, and video games.

A green screen provides a natural-looking alternative to placing items into a camera’s frame. The alternative background is superimposed on the green screen to create a single video stream. Green screens are green because this color is very different from natural skin tones. Film editors can easily replace the green screen, without worrying about impacting the action in front of the backdrop.

The History Behind Green Screen

Green screen techniques originated in the early 1930s. They have been used in countless acclaimed movies relying on special effects. Lawrence Butler became one of the earliest Academy Award winners for his use of green screen in the 1940 film “The Thief of Bagdad.” The 1980 film “The Empire Strikes Back” also won an Academy Award for its special effects. This wouldn’t have been possible without green screen.

Digital cameras made using green screen even easier. As use of these cameras became more widespread, green screen has also become more common.

Why Use Green Screen?

Green screen serves several functions. It can clarify things that might not be apparent with a natural background, so it’s a great teaching tool. It lets you blend live-action footage with computer-generated effects or animation. Green screen also provides greater scope for customization.

Green screens are excellent options for the following projects:

• Short and feature films
• Presentation slides
• Desktop screens
• YouTube videos
• Instructional videos

Tips for Success

The following tips will help make your green screen footage appear seamless and professional:

• Pay attention to lighting. Shadows can diminish the effectiveness of green screen. A sunny day can provide all the lighting you need. However, when shooting indoors or in low outdoor light, use three-point lighting. A triangle of lights around your subject ensures they’re well-lit from all sides.
• Touch up the subject to suit new background. Adding digital highlights or shadows can help your subject look better against the new background footage.
• Spend money on CGI graphics. The old saying that you get what you pay for holds true. Investing money on high-quality background imagery will pay dividends. Alternatively, consider studying animation so you can create high-quality CGI graphics yourself.
• Don’t discount stock footage. While stock footage limits your creative freedom, it can be a good way to affordably create good green screen video.

Learning how to make a green screen and experimenting with this video tool can enhance your own movies. You can learn more about film and how you can improve your skills by applying to the Nashville Film Institute here.

Understanding Film Theory

Film theory is a way of analyzing films to understand them and their place in society better. Film theorists break down films by looking at their elements and the way they impact one another. Film theory can also be applied to other video presentations, such as television programs. Film theory is not the same as film criticism, which concerns analyzing a film to determine its value. Film theory also differs from film history, which tracks changes in film trends over time.

The History of Film Theory

Film theory began in the 1920s because filmmakers wanted to understand film elements and how they could make their own films more meaningful and effective. Early film theory analyzed camerawork and editing. In the mid-1940s, film theory’s focus shifted towards analyzing the way film could capture reality. In the 1960s, film theorists became influenced by academic fields including psychology and gender studies. As filmmaking entered the 1990s, film theorists began analyzing the differences between films made with new digital and old analog technology. Fractured viewing habits have led modern film theorists to study where and how society experiences movies.

The Elements of Film Theory

Film theory analyzes films by examining eight key elements:

Film Type

Film theorists categorize films into three main types:

1. Realism: Showing an unfiltered and realistic world. Uses natural lighting and often nonprofessional actors, with minimal editing and no special effects
2. Classical: Emphasizes authentic moments while using creative production elements. Uses professional lighting and actors, but with little to no special effects and editing only for time passing
3. Formalism: Showing an altered reality created by the director. Uses professional actors, special effects, creative lighting, and sound effects

Camera Shots

Film theorists analyze how different camera shots convey messages and moods. These shots include:

1. Extreme close-up
2. Close-up
3. Medium shot
4. Full shot
5. Long shot or wide shot
6. Extreme long shot/extreme wide shot
7. Deep focus
8. American shot
9. Over the shoulder shot
10. Point of view shot

Camera Angles

Film theorists also examine the way camera angles make viewers feel. Filmmakers can manipulate their viewers’ emotions based on the camera angles they choose. The four main camera angles are:

1. Eye-level
2. High angle
3. Low angle
4. Oblique angle

Image via Videomaker

Lighting

A film’s lighting can also create mood. Comedy typically uses high-key lighting to set a light-hearted mood. The low-key lighting of film noir sets a much darker, more intense mood. Blending lighting styles can create new moods. Film theorists recognize the following lighting types:

1. High-key lighting
2. Low-key lighting
3. Chiaroscuro lighting
4. Silhouette/black lighting

Color

Film theorists recognize the impact of two main kinds of film color:

1. Saturated: Vivid color used for fantasy, romance, and conveying happiness
2. Desaturated: Muted color used for dystopian films and conveying depression and struggle

Image via Videomaker

Sound

Sound is another key element that film theorists analyze. There are two key types of film sound:

1. Diegetic: The sounds characters could hear because their source is onscreen or offscreen and part of the film’s action. This includes character voices and the sounds of props and instruments in the film.
2. Nondiegetic: The sounds characters do not hear because they occur outside the narrative. This includes narration and a film’s score.

Editing

Film editing goes unnoticed by many people, because it’s intended to make a story flow. However, film theorists understand the ways the following editing types impact films:

1. Continuity: Collapses space and time while maintaining fluidity
2. Radical subjective continuity: Dramatically cuts shots in different times and spaces
3. Classical: Dramatically jumps from long shot to medium shot to close up
4. Thematic: Cuts shots to show a common theme
5. Dialectic: Cuts shots to show a contradiction
6. Associative: Juxtaposes two shots to create a shared meaning

Mise-en-scene

Mise-en-scene is a French term meaning “placed on the stage.” It refers to the items in front of the camera and how they’re arranged. Common terms used to describe mise-en-scene include:

• Placement around frame
• Face to camera (quarter turn, half turn, three quarter turn, full turn, back)
• Territorial space (background, midground, foreground)
• Frame constraints (tight for intensity, open for showing desolation or freedom)

How to Read a Film

Film theorists read films by paying attention to the choices that directors, cinematographers, editors, and other creatives make. These choices help convey a film’s message and arouse emotions in viewers.

Why Film Theory Matters

Film theory matters because it helps us understand the films we watch on a deeper level. Through film theory, we understand individual films and their relation to others made by the same creatives, in the same time or place, or of the same genre. We also understand how different film movements and creatives influenced one another. Film theory is valuable to everyone who enjoys film, but it also helps people who create films. Screenwriters, directors, producers, and other creatives can make more informed choices after learning the power of different film elements.

Some Film Theory Focuses

Some people approach film theory with a particular perspective. They use the perspectives of different film movements to frame their film analyses. Below are some common film theory focuses. Image via Videomaker

1. Apparatus Theory

Popularized in the 1970s, apparatus theory suggests all films reflect reality in some way. It declares that every film element has meaning. People who believe in apparatus theory think they can learn more about a film’s meaning by analyzing the meaning of its elements.

2. Formalist Theory

Formalist theory analyzes the way a film’s technical elements impact viewers. This theory looks for meaning in camera shots, editing, lighting, and sound.

3. Structuralist Theory

Structuralist theory believes all films have a basic, underlying structure. This structure is built on recurring patterns, such as themes and motifs. Structuralist theorists believe we can understand films and groups of films better by comparing their structural elements.

4. Auteur Theory

Developed in the 1940s by François Truffaut, auteur theory believes the director, not the screenwriter, is a film’s ultimate author. That’s because directors manage all their films’ visual and audio elements. Some modern auteur theorists believe directors need a certain amount of experience to become auteurs.

5. Marxist Film Theory

Marxist film theory concerns the relationship between filmmakers, their films, and the audience. It analyzes the way certain film elements can influence audiences’ feelings and reactions.

6. Feminist Film Theory

Feminist film theory is a spinoff of feminist theory and feminist politics. It believes that since men make most films, actresses are often forced into stereotypical female roles that negatively impact them. Laura Mulvey and Bracha Ettinger are two key feminist film theorists. Modern feminist film theorists use the Bechdel Test to determine if a film represents women well. This test checks whether films feature scenes with at least two women talking about something other than a man. Feminist film theorists hope they can encourage filmmakers to make more female-positive movies.

7. Queer Film Theory

Like feminist film theory, queer film theory believes a majority controls the film industry, thus disadvantaging the minority. In this case, the theory believes most movies are made by straight people who limit or compromise queer perspectives. They also aim to change the status quo and champion better queer representation in film.

8. Genre Studies

This type of film theory analyzes films of specific genres and their common themes and tropes. It also examines what popular genres and their films say about society. For example, genre studies theorists might analyze the link between cop movies and toxic masculinity.

Notable Film Theorists

People interested in film theory often examine the work of prominent film theorists. In addition to the film theorists mentioned above, the following film theorists made fascinating observations:

• Germaine Dulac
• Dziga Vertov
• Lev Kuleshov
• Sergei Einsenstein
• André Bazin

Image via Videomaker In addition to these influential names, people interested in film theory can also learn from online sources such as David Bordwell’s blog, StudioBinders, and The Film Theorists YouTube channel.

Film Theory Careers

Studying film theory can lead to a variety of different careers. Some film theory students use their knowledge in the following roles:

• Film professor
• Film critic
• Film creator

Film theory is a fascinating topic area that can benefit a variety of professionals and anyone interested in movies. You can learn more about film theory and how you can improve your skills by applying to the Nashville Film Institute here.

Despite the ever-changing ways music and technology have evolved, music videos continue to play a significant role in promoting an artist’s career whether on YouTube or elsewhere online . Because of this, it’s important to know how to make a music video that adequately portrays their artistic power.

17 Steps For Making a Great Music Video

If you’re an aspiring filmmaker or producer, learning how to make a music video can help build your professional portfolio. No matter your budget, there are several ways to make a quality music video to help with your future endeavors. Consider these steps to create the ultimate music video:

1. Develop the concept. Before you start shooting, talk to the artist or band to determine what they want to get out of the music video. In addition, it’s important to get familiar with the song they want to use and ask the band if they have ideas that can help you plan out the music video. You should also consider the budget you’re working with and plan accordingly.
2. Study videos for inspiration. Before you start the planning process, look up other successful videos and determine what worked and what didn’t. These music videos can give you the drive and inspiration you need to make a successful video of your own. They can also help you determine how to tackle controversial topics, such as gun violence like Childish Gambino does in the following video: You can also find inspiration for more fun and lighthearted videos like the following from Dua Lipa: If you want inspiration for a video that travels to different locations, check out “Boys” from Charlie XCX: There are also plenty of ways to incorporate a product placement like Ella Mai does with Lyft below:
3. Consider your budget. Before you plan anything for the video, establish the budget. Knowing how much money you have to spend on the music video can help you save money and ensure you don’t go over budget.
4. Scout locations. Think of where you want to shoot your video based on the music video’s theme and the storyline you’re presenting. Try to shoot in one location instead of many to make the process simpler, especially if you’re working on your first music video or a smaller project. If you opt for multiple locations, visit each of them ahead of time to determine if they work with your overall vision.
5. Plan the shoot. Determine what crew members and equipment you need for every shot. You can also create a schedule to determine who and what is needed for each part.
6. Create a storyboard. Build a storyboard that involves shot-by-shot sketches for the entirety of your music video. Consider the camera angles and the types of shots you want, such as full-length shots or closeups of the actors or band members.
7. Find your film crew. Make sure your set has a camera person, a lighting person, a director, actors, dancers, choreographers, gaffer, sound man, grip, wardrobe, props, continuity, and obviously, the musician or band members. Once everyone’s assembled, share your storyboard with the appropriate teams. If you have the skills and time, consider taking on more of these roles yourself. The more work you take on yourself, the cheaper your project will be.
8. Get the necessary equipment. The equipment you use ultimately comes down to what you want to accomplish, the desired quality of the video you want to make, and your budget. Make sure all crew members have the equipment they need to fulfill their roles, such as a video camera to capture footage from each shoot. You’ll also likely need props and wardrobe for the band or actors. To help you haul your heavy gear from location to location, make sure you have proper transportation gear and a vehicle. Other helpful gear and equipment include a tripod, extra storage memory, an external microphone, and spare batteries for your camcorder.
9. Start filming. Once you’ve made the proper preparations, start the shooting process. Keep track of the shots you’ve already completed, and aim for several good shots of each scene so you have options when you put it all together. It’s also important to bring food or allow your team to take a food break as needed. You should even play the music as you film to help set the tone, put everyone in the right frame of mind, and help actors and artist lip sync.
10. Get the lighting right. No matter where you plan to shoot, it’s important to consider the lighting. It’s even more important to consider for low-light settings, as many camcorders lose recording quality with less light. If you’re working on a budget, consider shooting outdoors for some good natural light. Depending on your camera equipment and its built-in light, you may be able to shoot just fine within a well-lit indoor location. You can also purchase lighting kits if needed.
11. Capture live footage. Consider capturing footage of the musician or band playing live. When you film at a gig, you’re able to capture the energy of the band along with their interaction with the audience. You can choose to mix the live footage in with the other footage from the original shoot. If you’re shooting an entirely live video, make sure your team has the expertise to take this on.
12. Consider using stock footage. If you’re looking for additional footage, consider using copyright-free stock footage from royalty-free websites. Stock footage can save you time and money, and it helps when you can’t get the shot you’re looking for.
13. Get creative. Think out of the box to give your video a unique touch, such as playing with color saturation. Whether you look on MTV or YouTube, you’re sure to find videos with musicians playing to an audience with flashing lights. If you go for something like that, make it original, but don’t overdo it. Whether you’re going for a simple video, something more elaborate like this video that takes hours to create, the choice is yours. If you need some inspiration, check out this video from OK GO or this one that was shot in zero gravity: Overall, having a creative video will help catch a viewer’s eye and make it easier to promote online. Not only that, but it’ll also be a great addition to your portfolio if you’re an aspiring filmmaker or producer.
14. Avoid excessive zooming and special effects. When you zoom too often or use an abundance of special effects in your video, it can be distracting for viewers. Make sure to use these video features sparingly. If you’re looking for a new element to add to your video, consider adding sound effects, such as the sound of footsteps or street noise.
15. Use the right editing software. Begin the post-production phase by transferring your video footage to a computer. Choose a software that works best with your computer or that you’re comfortable using, such as iMovie or Adobe’s Premiere Elements. You can also try Apple Final Cut Pro or Adobe Premiere Pro and use Musician Video Maker to sync your audio and video.
16. Make sure your computer or digital device has enough hard drive space. If it doesn’t, invest in an external hard drive to store your footage. Depending on your video’s destination, determine a suitable output format. For example, if you want to publish the video on YouTube, make sure it’s optimized for the right resolution and video quality.
17. Use the music. Be sure to listen to the song and incorporate it into your video to make sure it syncs up with every shot.

For even more amazing tips, check out Alt Press’s take on what makes these vids awesome.

How To Shoot a Music Video With a Green Screen

With a green screen, you can insert someone into a “fake” background using computer effects and graphics. Here’s how to do it:

1. Have your subject stand in front of a green screen as you record.
2. Avoid having them wearing any green clothing or accessories.
3. Use additional lighting to help edit out the background during post-production.
4. When you edit the footage, cut out all the green and add your desired background.

Now that you know how to make a successful music video, it’s time to put on the videographer’s hat. Consider checking out the programs we have available at the National Film Institute to help you sharpen your skills.

Sound design is the art of creating the audio for film, television, advertising, music, and other productions. This broad field involves:

• Creative recording
• Mixing
• Sampling
• Sound editing
• Tweaking effects chains
• Film scoring

Productions typically use these five sound design elements:

1. Ambiance is the background noise that sets a scene. It should be appropriate and informative without overwhelming the recording’s focus.
2. Foley sounds are the sounds of actions that make scenes seem more real. Ex: footstep sounds or material moving as someone walks
3. Audio effects are sounds created because they don’t exist in the real world. Ex: an alien invasion.
4. A voice-over is the voice of a narrator who is either a character or an unseen narrator driving a story forward.
5. Music includes songs and instrumental pieces that influence mood and help tell the story.

The History of Sound Design

Sound has been used in theater for centuries, but the role of a sound designer originated about 50 years ago with the rise of audio and recording technology to produce sounds for film and TV.

The Business of Being a Sound Designer

Most sound designers are self-employed and may work for several businesses each year. Directors, producers, and venues headhunt the best sound designers. The sound design process has three key steps:

1. Live Recording and Design

During this initial step, sound designers may record sounds, use sounds from a sound library, or create original sounds.

2. Mixing, Editing, and Implementation

Next, sound designers edit and synchronize their sounds with videos. They cut and mix sounds to make them more effective, then use sound engines to implement them.

3. Sound Effects Mix

Sound designers often add sound effects to main sound mixes.

Sound Design for Film and Television

Sound design helps bring film and television productions to life. It involves:

• Dialogue capture
• Sound editing and mixing
• Foley
• Musical soundtracks

Sound Design in Music

Sound designers also help musical artists realize their creative visions by manipulating the raw sounds of vocals and instruments to make them sound their best. This process involves:

• Sampling
• Digital sound creation
• Ordering effects in a vocal chain
• Sound editing and mixing

The Differences Between Sound Design and Music Production

Sound design and music production can be part of the same project but they are different creative processes. Sound design builds sounds and effects from scratch, while music production creates songs and soundtracks.

Other Members of the Creative Team

Sound designers work closely with some of these creative professionals:

• Directors
• Producers
• Composers
• Music supervisors
• Lighting designers
• Sound and audio editors
• Sound effects designers
• Foley artists
• Audio recording engineers

The Sound Designer’s Work During the Production Process

The sound designers are a vital part of any film or television production. Their work begins in pre-production and runs to the end of post-production.

Pre-Production

During pre-production, the sound design manager studies a script with the director to determine vital sounds and music. Some directors have clear expectations about how their projects will sound, while others are more open to collaboration. The sound design manager may attend rehearsals to help them develop an appropriate soundtrack. The sound design team is given a budget and allocates it for the following:

• Sound production crew
• Recording studios and other shooting locations
• Talent
• Music licensing
• Voice-over recording
• Sound editing and mixing
• Catering

Production

During production, the sound design team is responsible for:

• Setting up sound playback equipment
• Training the soundboard operator if required

Post-Production

During post-production, the sound design team refines the audio and ensures it sounds its best by:

• Working with audio files that correspond to visuals
• Placing dialogue and music on the timeline of video editing software
• Designing audio
• Adding dialogue, music, and voice-overs to designed audio
• Ensuring audio syncs correctly with the visuals

How Do I Become a Sound Designer?

A combination of education and on-the-job training helps sound designers succeed.

1. Formal Institutional Training

Sound designers do not require degrees. However, formal training through a theater or film school can be beneficial. Schools often have strong relationships with organizations employing sound designers, so they can help students make valuable career contacts.

2. Apprenticeship, On-the-Job Training (OJT), and Work-Study

Apprenticeships, on-the-job training, and work-study programs with small theater and film companies give aspiring sound designers practical experience.

3. Develop Your Vision

Developing your vision, and knowing what you want to achieve will help you attain your goals.

Tips for Becoming a Sound Designer and Getting Out There

After completing your education and training, use the following strategies to kickstart your career:

• Join online sound design communities
• Ask family members and friends if they know anyone needing sound design work
• Create a sound library to make yourself more appealing to potential clients
• Listen to a variety of music recordings, sound designs, and film scores
• Accept small projects to build your resume
• Work as a freelancer on various projects to diversify your skills
• Be patient and understand that it takes time and experience to secure your dream projects

The Market for Sound Design

The sound design market is expanding with more companies requiring content for apps, websites, and advertisements in addition to traditional film and TV productions.

Designing Audio

Sound designers take the audio captured during filming and manipulate it to sound better. Dialogue, for example, is regularly refined in post-production. Substituting original dialogue with newly designed audio is called automatic dialogue replacement, which involves:

1. Removing background noise and imperfections from recorded dialogue
2. Muting edited dialogue
3. Designing the environment
4. Designing sound effects

Designing audio falls into two main categories: creative and real sound design.

Creative Sound Design

Creative sound design is the creation of sounds outside reality like sounds of aliens or monsters. These are created by:

• Making sounds with ordinary items such as cutlery and metal bins
• Manipulating recorded sounds
• Creating sounds with digital tools such as oscillators and filters
• Layering different sounds on top of one another

Real Sound Design

Real sound design is the creation of sounds replicating those heard in reality. These sounds are created by:

• Making sounds in a way they would occur in real life
• Using unrelated tools to create sounds mimicking real life

They are then treated to sound right for their environment. For example, footsteps in a carpeted room sound different from those in a tiled room.

Sound Design Tools and Techniques

Sound designers have a range of tools and techniques that help them efficiently manipulate and create professional sounds. Some of these include:

Effects

Sound designers use audio effects to enhance ordinary sounds, including:

• Changing the order of effects
• Routing effects in various ways
• Layering different effects

Experimental Recording Techniques

Experimental recording techniques are innovative tactics for altering original sounds that include:

• Using signal chains
• Using different microphones
• Positioning microphones in different locations

Create With Your DAW and the Plug-Ins You Already Have

Your digital audio workstation (DAW) allows you to:

• Change audio speed
• Change playback direction

DAWs come preloaded with several plug-ins. Modulation, panning, and volume automation tools can transform your sounds.

Sampling

Sampling involves including audio from other sources in a recording. Hip-hop music often samples by:

• Using in-built synthesis tools such as filters and envelope generators
• Changing factors including the decay, attack, sustain, and release
• Creating original samples
• Adding a transient sound, such as extra drums

Synthesis

Synthesis is creating new sounds from scratch using your own parameters. These tools can influence the way synthesized audio sounds:

• Oscillators
• Filters
• Envelope generators

MIDI

MIDI can also help sound designers control different features of sound recordings. MIDI makes experimenting with the following sound elements easy:

• MIDI effects, such as arpeggiation
• Note patterns
• Control change messages

Field Recording/Found Sound

Field recording is collecting sounds, called found sounds, from anywhere outside and bringing them back into the studio.

Sidechaining

Sidechaining is a technique where an effect activates an audio track to balance it out and provide more clarity.

Record Everything

The best sound designers know sometimes their best work happens by accident. Recording everything with an external wave editor preserves any accidental strokes of genius.

Reverse It

Reversing sounds via sampling or manipulating the DAW timeline can give them a new complexion. Sound designers might reverse the following sounds:

• Leads
• Vocals
• Drums and basses
• Pads
• Effects

EQ as a Creative Filter

Equalizers, or EQs, can be used to enhance sound by improving its levels and creating dramatic effects.

Plugin Orders

Sound designers can also create dazzling effects by varying the order of their plugins.

Save Your FX Chains

When you make an effects (FX) chain you like, save it to use it again in the right situation, without loading the plugins individually. The DAW makes saving FX chains easy.

Use the Wrong Plugins

Sometimes the wrong plugin can be so right. Using a vocoder on a guitar riff or a vocal enhancer on drums can create unusual and exciting sounds.

Distortion and Noise

Distortion and noise may seem undesirable, but they can be striking when used in the right way. Pre- and post-filtering can amplify or dilute these elements, depending on the desired sound.

Patch cloning

Patch cloning helps sound designers understand how each change they make impacts sound. Simply open two instances of a plugin, initialize one and load a preferred preset into the other. Then match the parameters on the initialized synth to the patched one.

Bitcrush Excitement

Bitcrushing creates striking sound effects that can add interest to a sound or create intense sound variations.

Mash Up Your Existing Parts

Combining different audio sections by manipulating them, changing their order, and layering them can create exciting effects.

Auxome

Auxome, or auxiliary return tracks, can make sounds seem fuller. Equalizing and processing auxiliary return tracks separately helps sound designers control their products.

Layering Textures

Layering sonic textures, like adding a grainy field recording, can create new sounds and make a clean piece of studio-record music feel edgier.

Extreme Time Stretching

Extreme time stretching techniques can create unusual and engaging sounds.

Separate Sessions

Sound design can be laborious, so most people use separate sessions, then piece them together seamlessly. Sound design is a vital area of film and television that can provide a rewarding career for creative minds.

If you want to learn how to write a spec script, you need to develop a deep understanding of the structure, format, and art of screenwriting before you begin.

1. Find inspiration:

Art is all about imitation, so use these tips to help you get inspired.

• Read great screenplays.
• Listen to music.
• List and watch 20 movies you wish you’d written.
• Write an outline of someone else’s movie.
• Look at sample scripts: Sample 1, Sample 2, and Sample 3 (film overview).

2. Read about screenwriting:

Learn as much as you can about the art of screenwriting from professionals. Consider reading these highly valuable screenwriting guides to help you hone your writing skills.

• Save the Cat! by Blake Snyder
• Screenplay: The Foundations of Screenwriting by Syd Field
• The Coffee Break Screenwriter by Pilar Alessandra
• The TV Writer’s Workbook by Ellen Sandler
• Selling Your Story in 60 Seconds by Michael Hauge
• Writing the TV Drama Series by Pamela Douglas
• The Screenwriter’s Bible: A Complete Guide to Writing, Formatting, and Selling Your Script by David Trottier
• From Script to Screen by Linda Seger
• Hollywood Standard: The Complete and Authoritative Guide to Script Format and Style by Christopher Riley
• Writing Great Screenplays for Film and Tv by Dona Cooper

3. Make it extraordinary:

Find ways to make your work stand out from other screenplays by:

• Using unique elements and making unusual choices in your story
• Using your family, friends, missteps, and achievements as inspiration for characters
• Staying updated on current events and using them to inform the themes and messages of your work.
• Reading about any topics, ideas, or locations to better educate yourself before you start writing.
• Reading scripts and analyzing them. You’ll see what’s effective and can put that to work in your screenplay. To analyze a script:
  1. Note effective elements.
  2. Track technical notes, like action and subheadings.
  3. Identify areas that don’t work.
  4. Review your analysis for takeaways.

4. Identify a conflict or theme central to your story:

Consider events happening in the world around you or unifying concepts you’d like to explore as inspiration.

5. Select a film genre for your story:

You can also combine film genres to make something unique.

6. Pick a setting for your film:

Use your theme and genre to help guide your setting choices.

7. Create a dynamic protagonist:

The protagonist should have a central goal they want to achieve throughout the screenplay.

8. Build an oppositional antagonist:

This could be a person, idea, or event that keeps your protagonist from easily achieving their goal.

9. Write a logline that summarizes your idea:

This one- or two-sentence summary should clearly capture the main ideas in your script.

10. Create a story world:

Establishing the world in which your story exists is vital for writing an authentic and believable screenplay. Key elements include:

• Brainstorming: Gather potential ideas to use in your script.
• Concept: This should be a clear central tenet that you can summarize in your logline.
• Story: While you won’t have every scene yet, you should know the basic high and low points of the screenplay.
• Characters: Know a bit about your main characters.

11. Make your concept or story more interesting:

If you’re having trouble breaking out of traditional script ideas, use these strategiesto help you add interest to your screenplay:

1. Think about your favorite type of movie.
2. Brainstorm unique ideas for your plot.
3. Read screenplay outlines and treatments.
4. Seek feedback on your outline.

12. Outline your script:

When you create your screenplay outline, include specific details related to:

• Plotting: Identify the major plot points in the story.
• Scenes: Note specific scenes or potential scene ideas.
• Character development: Iterate how your protagonist will get from point A to point B.
• Conclusion: Know how the story will end.

13. Establish interesting characters:

While things like hard work, luck, and dedication all play a part in writing a great script, pushing your imagination is the most important factor. Ask yourself these questions to help bring your characters to life:

• Will these characters leave an impression?
• Am I excited as I write about these characters?
• Are these characters predictable?
• Are their flaws to blame for the bad things that happen to them?

14. Think outside of traditional character traits like “loyal” and “handsome.”

Look for unusual descriptors like:

• Humorless
• Retro
• Loner

15. Format your script:

Before you begin fleshing out your script idea, you should have a working knowledge of screenplay elements. The most common elements and transitions found in a screenplay include:

• Scene Heading: Also known as a slugline, this one-line description of the time of day and location of a scene is always in all caps.
• Subheader: This element helps identify minor distinctions within a scene, like a cut between two locations.
• Action: These lines describe the scene events in present tense.
• Character: Names should be listed in all caps the first time they’re introduced in action and when listed above dialogue.
• Dialogue: This is a character’s lines of speech.
• Parenthetical: These additional directions are how a character says a line.
• Extension: These are technical notes, like specifying that a line is spoken off-camera.
• Transition: Transitions are directions for film editors.
• Shot: This is used to indicate the point of view of the scene has shifted.
• Montage: A montage is a series of shots showing the passage of time.
• Chyrons: Chyrons indicate the time and place of a scene, usually in text over the video.
• Lyrics: If your script includes lyrics, you can add them interspersed with dialogue or note the general feeling of the song with the actual song included separately.
• Fade In: Fade in is listed at the very beginning of the script.
• Cut To: You should use “cut to” to indicate a change in location.
• End of Act: Use this at the end of each act, typically for a TV script.
• Fade Out: Fade out indicates the end of the script.

16. Create your first draft:

Write your script’s first draft by setting specific goals and deadlines, writing a predetermined number of pages per day, ensuring your dialogue sounds natural, and keeping your script around 90 to 120 pages.

• The first page of the script: The first page of your script should start with the words “FADE IN.” Your actual script begins there, usually with a scene description, character notes, and any other exposition before beginning character dialogue.
• Script diary: To delve deeper into the writing process, keep a daily diary of your feelings, ideas, and revelations about your script before you tackle your pages.

17. Revise your script:

After you’ve written your first draft, take a break from it for a week or two to reset your mind. To write is to rewrite, so it’s vital that after your brief break from your screenplay, you come back to it.

18. Share your script with others:

Seek feedback from people you trust to help you refine your script. Ask them for notes on the concept, plot, setting, characters, and dialogue to help you refine all elements of the screenplay. Use professional consultants, like from Script Reader Pro, to get even more valuable feedback.

19. Rewrite:

Rewriting is a vital component of revision. Make changes and updates to clarify your story based on notes from trusted friends, colleagues, or mentors as well as your own thoughts.

20. Edit

: Look for and fix any grammatical or spelling errors as you see them during the revision process. Ensure your screenplay’s format is appropriate and matches the specifications of scripts.

21. Prepare your script for presentation:

Once your script is complete, prepare and bind it for presentation:

1. Print the title page and script on three-hole punched paper.
2. Place the title page and script in the script cover.
3. Add brass fasteners in the top and bottom holes.
4. Slip washers on the back of the fasteners.
5. Hammer the fasteners flat with a script binding mallet.

22. Use screenplay formatting software:

Using screenplay formatting software can save you an enormous amount of time when planning and writing.

• For story development:
  • Dramatica Pro
  • Contour
  • Save the Cat!
  • Storyboard Quick
• For screenwriting:
  • Final DraftMovie
  • Magic Screenwriter
  • Celtx
  • StudioBinder
  • WriterDuet

23. Surround yourself with creatives:

Find a community that supports your dreams, like a film school. Documentary screenwriting follows its own process since much of the script is created after filming occurs, which changes the order and manner in which you create the screenplay. For more information on writing a script for a documentary, check out this video. With dedication, perseverance, and education, you can become an outstanding screenwriter. You can learn more about scriptwriting and how you can improve your skills by applying to the Nashville Film Institute here.