FILMS-3700-1: Upper Division Workshop: Cinematography Workshop
Spring 2026
- Subject: Film
- Type: Studio
- Delivery Mode: In-Person
- Level: Undergraduate
- Course Dates: January 20, 2026 — May 11, 2026
- Meetings: Tue 9:00AM-02:30PM, Main Bldg - 160
- Instructor: Donald Smith
- Units: 3.0
- Enrolled: 10/16
Description:
Immerse yourself in the art and craft of cinematography and image capture, whilst being empowered to create compelling visual stories across multiple platforms. You will explore how to skillfully operate camera equipment, manipulate lighting, and compose shots that evoke emotion and support narrative development. Through hands-on projects and guided exercises, you will learn to see the world through a cinematic lens, translating visual ideas into powerful images. The course begins with foundational techniques, mastering basic camera operation, framing, and exposure. Experiment with different shot types, camera movements, and lighting setups to understand how each element influences mood and storytelling. Analyze the visual language of films and media, and identify how directors communicate tone, tension, and atmosphere through imagery. Develop your own projects, applying technical skills creatively to craft scenes that resonate emotionally and enhance narrative clarity. This course offers opportunities to deepen your cinematic vocabulary, experiment with stylized lighting and camera techniques, and explore complex visual storytelling strategies. Dissect professional productions to analyze innovative cinematography approaches and incorporate these lessons into their own work. Engage in comprehensive production planning, directing scenes, and refining shot choices to elevate storytelling quality.
Pre-Requisites and Co-Requisites:
Visit Workday to view this information.