2.2 Film Directing

• block an actor in a scene for a film
• use camera techniques to shoot a one-minute clip
• use basic editing skills to produce a one-minute clip
• appreciate the value of editing in filmmaking

“How do film production elements contribute to film storytelling?”

“Why is the use of different camera angles important in film production?”

The titles are open to everyone. Reading a lesson needs an account — sign in or create one.

1. The film director
   40 min · 1 practice tasks · quiz
   Describe the director job and the three elements this node covers.
2. Blocking actors
   40 min · 1 practice tasks · quiz
   Describe blocking and arrange actors in a scene.
3. Blocking two actors
   40 min · 1 practice tasks · quiz
   Arrange two actors for clear positioning and interaction.
4. Blocking for the camera
   40 min · 1 practice tasks · quiz
   Block actors with the line of action so the scene can be covered.
5. Coverage
   40 min · 1 practice tasks · quiz
   Shoot a scene from several angles for the editor.
6. Using the storyboard
   40 min · 1 practice tasks · quiz
   Direct the shoot from the storyboard and the shot list.
7. Directing rehearsal
   40 min · 1 practice tasks · quiz
   Direct actors in rehearsal with clear, kind notes.
8. Running the set
   40 min · 1 practice tasks · quiz
   Run the shooting day with clear crew roles, pace and safety.
9. Shots: close-up, medium, long
   40 min · 1 practice tasks · quiz
   Choose close-up, medium and long shots for a scene.
10. The eye-level angle
    40 min · 1 practice tasks · quiz
    Use the eye-level angle for a neutral view.
11. The high angle
    40 min · 1 practice tasks · quiz
    Use a high angle to make a subject look small or weak.
12. The low angle
    40 min · 1 practice tasks · quiz
    Use a low angle to make a subject look powerful.
13. Why angles matter
    40 min · 1 practice tasks · quiz
    Explain why different camera angles are important.
14. Panning
    40 min · 1 practice tasks · quiz
    Use a pan to show a scene or follow movement.
15. Tilting
    40 min · 1 practice tasks · quiz
    Tilt the camera up and down to reveal height or a character.
16. More camera movement
    40 min · 1 practice tasks · quiz
    Name tracking, zoom and handheld movement and their uses.
17. The camera and the tripod
    40 min · 1 practice tasks · quiz
    Keep shots steady and care for the camera equipment.
18. Lighting for the shot
    40 min · 1 practice tasks · quiz
    Light a subject with key, fill and back light to set the mood.
19. What editing is
    40 min · 1 practice tasks · quiz
    Describe editing and why it is valuable in filmmaking.
20. Choosing editing software
    40 min · 1 practice tasks · quiz
    Choose a suitable editing tool and follow online safety.
21. Importing footage
    40 min · 1 practice tasks · quiz
    Bring recorded clips into an editing project.
22. Laying the timeline
    40 min · 1 practice tasks · quiz
    Arrange the clips in order on the editing timeline.
23. Cutting
    40 min · 1 practice tasks · quiz
    Trim clips and join them with cuts to set the pace.
24. Transitions
    40 min · 1 practice tasks · quiz
    Choose cuts, fades and dissolves for the edit.
25. Adding sound and music
    40 min · 1 practice tasks · quiz
    Add and balance the sound and music in the edit.
26. Titles and credits
    40 min · 1 practice tasks · quiz
    Add an opening title and end credits that are readable.
27. Rendering and exporting
    40 min · 1 practice tasks · quiz
    Render the edit into one video file and check it before sharing.
28. Storing and backing up
    40 min · 1 practice tasks · quiz
    Save, name and back up the project and the finished file.
29. Shoot and edit a one-minute clip
    40 min · 1 practice tasks · quiz
    Use the directing skills to shoot and edit a one-minute clip.
30. Review and appreciation
    40 min · 1 practice tasks · quiz
    Review the clip and value the role of editing.