What makes the Filmmaking Programs at Purchase College Unique?
Our goal is to make sure you leave the program with a solid foundation of the most important aspects of filmmaking. What makes the Purchase College programs so unique is that you will learn by doing. We will keep the lectures and lessons short and to the point, and then make sure you apply those concepts right away. I try to teach everything I have learned from working in the business, and from my own experiences as a film student. Likewise, our Teaching Assistants are college film students themselves. They bring a wealth of knowledge to the program and are eager to share their experiences with you. Best of all, when writing, storyboarding, shooting and editing, there is always an experienced filmmaker working with you.
Will I be bored if I have taken Filmmaking classes before?
Absolutely not! Our goal is to see even the most advanced filmmaker improve upon the skills you already have. Filmmaking is very similar to playing an instrument; you need to keep doing it in to be good at your craft. It’s also important to try new things and experiment. If you already know the basics, perhaps it’s time to hone these skills, or maybe branch out into a new genre, such as documentary or experimental. There are so many ways to apply what you already know and at the same time bring your skills to the next level.
What if this is all new to me and I have never taken a class or picked up a camera?
At some point in time we all had to be the “new kid” on the block. Here at Purchase College we work hard to cater to both the rookie as well as the seasoned filmmaker. Our teaching assistants and instructors are always there to assist you, and once you start working alongside the other filmmakers, you will be amazed how fast you pick it up. In fact, by the time we are ready to screen our final projects at our big movie premier, you will find that everyone has improved as a filmmaker.
My son/daughter has made films on his/her own, what will he/she get out of the program?
I urge experienced filmmakers to join us! With equipment being so much more accessible now than it once was, it is now much easier for aspiring filmmakers to start out by working alone. What’s great about the Purchase College summer filmmaking programs is your chance to work with other filmmakers - such as our college-level TAs who are all film majors themselves - who have the same passion for film as you do. Collaboration is an essential skill in the art of filmmaking. As the saying goes, “no man is an island.” This is especially true of film. (If you don’t believe me, scroll down to the end credits of any summer blockbuster and count the number of people that worked on the movie.) So, experienced filmmakers please join us! Let us help you reach that next level!
Can I make my own film or do I have to work in a group?
You can make your own film if you like, but many students choose to collaborate on their final film projects, as it gives them the chance to make longer more complex movies. The choice is yours.
Can I be put in a group with a friend?
Yes, not a problem just let us know whom you would like to be with. But remember, there just might be a new friend out there waiting for you to meet, so try to be open to working with new people. Each year we see amazing films (and new friendships) made by teams of people who were once perfect strangers.
Can I switch groups once the program starts?
We try and mix the groups up as much as possible so that you get a chance to work with almost everyone in the class. That said, if you are having issues with your assigned group, let us know.
What does a typical day look like?
We start each day by watching a scene or two from a great film. As we are watching we talk about the cinematography, storyline, editing, lighting style, etc. At around 9:45-until about 10:30 we have a morning workshop or mini-lesson (such as lighting, sound design, or camera techniques). We then break into groups and apply the concept discussed in the lesson. After lunch, until the time we leave for the day we will continue to work on the day’s topic, or introduce a new one as time permits.
Do I need my own camera?
It is suggested that you have a camera but it is not imperative. Usually if one or two people in the group have a camera we are able to get by. But if you are interested in learning about cinematography, we strongly recommend that you buy a camera.
What if I have an older camera?
I tell everyone to bring your old camera to class the first day and so that we can test it. If your camera has USB or Firewire connections and uses mini digital videotape it will most likely be fine. The disadvantage of these older units is that the video resolution (quality) is often lower. That said, some of the older cameras are really sturdy, and have great microphones and lenses. Bring it in and let’s check it out together.
What is the editing program we will use?
We will be using DaVinci Resolve, iMovie, Final Cut Pro, and Adobe Premiere. The choice is yours! And, if you are proficient on one editing platform, we will try and get you working on at least one of the other editing systems so you are constantly learning new tools and ways to hone your craft. You may like another system better, you never know.
Do I need to know how to use an editing program before I start?
No, you don’t need to know a thing about editing. We should have even beginners up to speed in a few days. If you are more comfortable on iMovie, then you can cut on that system. I do urge all students to try at least two different editing platforms so they can pick the one that works best for them.
What Type of Camera Should I Buy?
Mirrorless Camera (CSC)
There are many choices for video cameras these days, but if your child is planning on going to college for film or media studies, you may want to consider buying a Mirrorless (Compact System Camera).
The Pros:
- Since they are technically a “still” camera, you can use them for both still pictures, and video. The whole family can use the same camera.
- They can shoot great video images in both Hi-Def (1080) and in 4K video.
- Also, if your child is planning on studying film or media, he or she will likely end up taking a photography course or two. These types of cameras can do both.
- One reason the images are so nice is the lenses these cameras come with. They are interchangeable, too. You can buy all sorts of different lenses to suit your needs.
- Look for models that feature 4K video capability. You don’t have to shoot in 4K, but it is where the whole industry has moved to.
- For Mirrorless: Lumix (Panasonic) Canon, Nikon, Sony, Fuji, and now Black Magic.
The Cons:
- These cameras are more expensive than most consumer video cameras. Prices can range from $400 to over $1500.
- Generally, these cameras do not have great built-in sound microphones. To work around this, you can buy an external microphone to mount on the camera.
- Many of these cameras feature a “rolling shutter.” This means you will get some image distortion when filming fast moving objects. (NOTE: Video cameras use a different type of sensor, better suited for live action.)
Video Cameras
A 4K camcorder is a great option for aspiring filmmakers and they have many advantages over mirrorless camera options. For example, they are much better for filming long format events such as a school play, sporting event, or graduation.
If you do choose to go for a traditional video camera, and money is not too big a concern, you may want to go for a “prosumer” model. These run from $500 and up. They have better lenses, sound, and more manual functions, all of which allow for more artistic control. They are also much better for filming long format events such as a sports game or graduation.
I would stick with models that make pro versions: Sony, Canon, Panasonic, JVC. These companies have been at it for a long time.
Then Again …
You may just want to wait for now. Have your child shoot on their cellphone. Maybe purchase a wireless microphone for better sound. Students can also download a 3 rd party cinema app such as the Black Magic Camera App for iPhone or Android. It turns your phone into a cinema camera with a host of manual functions. See the link below.
https://www.blackmagicdesign.com/products/blackmagiccamera
If your child is still serious about filmmaking in a year or two, see what their classmates are buying for college, and buy a fancy camera then. Remember, it’s not the camera, it’s filmmaker behind the camera that is creating the cinematic shots.
If you do decide to purchase a camera, whether mirrorless or camcorder, remember to purchase an extra battery, and storage card, as shooting HD or 4K video will eat up your camera’s battery and storage card space very quickly. I myself always have 3 extras batteries on hand and several extra SD cards.
John P. Morgan (JP)
Lead Instructor, Purchase College Summer Filmmaking Institute