Film God Class

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  • This course is open for 8 weeks
  • 292 lesson series
  • 20 hours, 28 minutes of video

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The lessons

  • Setting Up Your Camera

    This quick-start tutorial will help you set-up the basic settings of your camera.
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  • Basic Shooting Techniques

    Once your camera has been set-up, you're now ready to shoot on set. This lesson guides you through the camera settings you'll use to get each shot.
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  • Basic Framing Techniques

    Learn the basics of how to frame your shots for professional results.
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  • Basic Audio Techniques

    This quick-start guide will help you configure your camera to record high-quality audio on set.
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  • Basic Production Techniques

    Learn the basics of on-set production and get the quality footage you want on set.
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  • Realities of the Industry

    The entertainment industry does a great job of creating an illusion of how it operates, but how does it really work?  Learn from top Hollywood filmmakers what really goes on behind the scenes, and how that impacts your career.
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  • Careers in Filmmaking

    Learn what opportunities exist for a career in the film industry, how to choose the right one, and the best way to prepare for a long, successful career.
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  • Working Freelance

    Learn the realities of working in a freelance-based industry, and how to survive.
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  • Making Money as a Filmmaker

    Learn how to make a living in film production, manage your money, and prepare for the ups and downs of the freelance world.
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  • The Art of Networking

    Like they say, it's all who you know... and they're right.  In this module, learn the art of networking, meeting people, and navigating the trecherous waters of Hollywood.
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  • Moving to Los Angeles

    Thinking about moving to LA?  Learn how to best prepare and hit the ground running in the second largest city in the United States.
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  • How to Survive in Hollywood

    Emmy-winning Executive Producer Steve Skrovan shares tips and tricks to surviving and keeping your career alive in Hollywood
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  • Advice from the Pros

    Dozens of successful Hollywood filmmakers share their secrets, tips, and advice on how to make it in the most competitive industry in the world.
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  • The Studio System

    In this module, you'll explore the studio system, learn who the players are, who the mini-majors are, the ever-evolving role of the studios as new corporate conglomerates, the types of movies they are making, and how you can be part of it.
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  • Working For a Studio

    Learn how to get your project through the studio approval system, what studio executives are looking for, and how studios work with directors and producers.
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  • Making a Business Plan

    Learn, step-by-step, how to build a business plan that will appease even the savviest investors. Hollywood producers take you through the process so you can go into the fundraising process confident in the movie you’re selling.
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  • Packaging Your Movie

    Learn how to choose the right actors for your movie, work with distributors in the development process, determine the value of your creative talent, how to attract top-tier talent, and ultimately make your movie attractive to distributors and audiences.
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  • Agents and Managers

    Learn the different between an agent and a manager, the roles each fulfill, how to get one, the costs involved, and how to use their services to promote your career.
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  • How to Sell a Reality TV Show

    Producer Troy DeVolld (Dancing with the Stars, The Bachelor, and Hollywood Game Night) teaches you how to sell a reality TV showin Hollywood.
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  • Lesson 1 - Beginning the Writing Process

    Learn how to begin the writing process.
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  • Lesson 2 - Working with a Writing Partner

    Learn how to find and work with a writing partner.
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  • Lesson 3 - Finding Story Ideas & Inspiration

    Choosing the right idea for you script is a challenge– not only determining which ideas will draw an audience, but finding one you're willing to stick with through month, even years, of writing.
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  • Lesson 4 - Developing a Marketable Idea

    When you're thinking of an idea for your screenplay, always start backwards and define the audience and what you want the movie to accomplish. In this lesson, we'll show you factors to consider when developing an idea.
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  • Lesson 5 - Story Formats

    Learn how stories are formatted across feature and short films, animation, commercials, documentaries, music videos, and corporate videos.
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  • Lesson 6 - The Seven Plot Types

    Discover the foundation for every story every told, and how you can use one of these plot types as the foundation for your story.
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  • Lesson 7 - The Implication of Genre

    Learn how the genre influences your screenwriting decisions, and the impact it has on the marketability of your movie.
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  • Lesson 8 - The Three Act Structure

     Learn how to properly write a story using the three act structure.  
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  • Lesson 9 - A-Story and Subplots

     Learn to properly structure the A-Story and subplots in your script.
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  • Lesson 10: Techniques to Improve Story Pacing

    Learn techniques to help improve the pacing of your story.
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  • Lesson 11 - Techniques to Engage the Audience

    Learn how to use questions and answers, and set-ups and payoffs to make your screenplay more interesting and engaging to the audience.
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  • Lesson 12 - The Protagonist

     Learn how to create a strong protagonist, the attributes of the protagonist, and how (s)he changes.
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  • Lesson 13 - The Antagonist

     Learn to write a strong, multi-dimensional antagonist.
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  • Lesson 14 - Conflict Types

     Learn the types of conflict, how it is influenced by genre and how it impacts the protagonist.
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  • Lesson 15 - Developing the Supporting Characters

    Learn the role of supporting characters and how they can be used to support both the protagonist and antagonist.
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  • Lesson 16 - Character Archetypes

     Learn the eight character archetypes and how to use them as the foundation for strong supporting characters.
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  • Lesson 17 - Designing Personality and Building Backstory

     Learn how to create a real character with personality and backstory
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  • Lesson 18 - How to Write Natural Dialogue

     Learn how to write compelling, realistic dialogue in your script.
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  • Lesson 19 - Title, Theme, and Log Lines

    The heart of every story is the theme, but the log line is how you pitch it and the title is how people remember it. Learn how to develop an effective title, theme, and log line for your story.
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  • Lesson 20 - How to Write a Treatments and Outline

    Learn how to develop your idea into a treatment and outline before writing the first draft.
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  • Lesson 21 - How to Format a Screenplay

    Learn how to properly format a screenplay.
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  • Lesson 22 - How to Write the First Draft

    Now that your story has been outlined, you can move onto the first draft. In this lesson, you'll learn techniques for expanding your story into an engaging screenplay.
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  • Lesson 23 - Improve Your Rewrites

     Once the first draft is complete, learn how to rewrite a script, from characters to plot to dialogue.  
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  • Lesson 24 - Marketing the Script

    Learn how to pitch and present your script to producers, agents and managers.
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  • Lesson 25 - Your Screenplay and the Real World

    With your screenplay completed, you have to interact with producers, agents, and amanagers. In this lesson, you'll learn how to manage feedback, protext yoru screenplay, and improve your craft.
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  • How to Become a Writer in Hollywood, Part I

    Emmy-nominated writer, Pamela Douglas reveals an insider's pespective on how to begin your career as a writer in part one of this engaging FilmTalk.
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  • How to Become a Writer in Hollywood, Part II

    Emmy-nominated writer, Pamela Douglas reveals an insider's pespective on how to begin your career as a writer in part two of this engaging FilmTalk.
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  • The Changing Landscape of Television

    Emmy-nominated Pamela Douglas sheds light on the ever-changing art of writing for the small screen - from story structure to career opportunities.
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  • Defining Comedy

    Veteran comedia Steve Kaplan takes us into the world of comedy to help us understand not only the art of funny, but also the art of being ourselves.
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  • Working in a Television Writers' Room

    Emmy-winning Writer, Steve Skrovan takes you inside the writer's room to learn the politics, challenges, and techniques of the collaborative writing process.
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  • The Reality Television Story Process

    Veteran reality show producer Troy DeVolld takes us into the world of reality TV show production.
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  • Final Draft - Script Basics

    In this first of 6 training modules, learn the basics of script formatting and how you can use Final Draft software to begin formatting your screenplay, including scene headers, action lines, dialogue, parentheticals, dual dialogue, and transitions.
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  • Final Draft - Using Templates

    In this second of 6 training modules, learn how to use existing templates to format your Final Draft script into hundreds of popular formats including sitcoms, hour-long dramas, SNL skits, multi-camera shows, Broadway musicals, and novels.
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  • Final Draft - Story Organizing

    In this third of 6 training modules, learn how to throw away the old note card and use Final Draft's story organizing capabilities to organize your scenes, characters, and dialogue in an efficient way.
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  • Final Draft - Distributing Your Script

    In this fourth of 6 training modules, learn how to export and distribute your script through Final Draft for both physical and electronic delivery, prepare your script for table reads, water mark, and learn about Final Draft on mobile devices.
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  • Final Draft - Tips, Tricks, & Utilities

    In this fifth of 6 training modules, enhance your use of Final Draft with a number of tips and tricks.
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  • Final Draft - Production

    In this last of 6 training modules, learn how to use Final Draft to manage script changes and revisions, how to lock pages, manage scene numbers, scene omissions and additions, and export reports that quickly analyze your script for production.
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  • Raising Money

     Learn how money is raised for motion pictures, from equity and debt financing to tax incentives
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  • Tax Incentives

    Learn how to take advantage of tax incentives, the difference between rebates and credits, how to convert credits into money, what to expect during the auditing process, and how to collect your money.
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  • Forming a Production Company

    Learn how to choose the right corporate structure, set up a company, open the proper accounts, establish the legal framework for the production, work with an attorney, and set-up the production office.
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  • Money Management

    Learn to manage the budget, set-up a bank account, manage the flow of money throughout the production including payroll, loan outs, kit fees, per diems, mileage, and petty cash.
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  • Hiring the Crew

    Learn how to hire an experienced crew, work with above the line vs, below the line, union vs. non-union crew members, manage pay or play deals, work with independent contractors and employees, address personal conflicts on set, and ultimately assemble the most talented professionals for your project.
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  • Working with Vendors

    Learn to find qualified vendors in your shooting area, manage relationships with vendors, the financial workflow from purchase orders to invoices, and tips to making sure you get the resources you need on set.
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  • Unions and Guilds

    Learn how the unions function, the benefits for members, the key unions: IATSE, DGA, SAG, and WGA, the differences in hiring union and non-union crew, how productions flip, and how to shoot in a “Right-to-Work” state.
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  • Working with SAG/AFTRA

    Learn how SAG functions, the ramifications of the SAG-AFTRA merger, how signatories work, how the Taft-Hartley act admits new members into SAG-AFTRA, and the benefits and drawbacks of Financial Core.  Be prepared when working with SAG-AFTRA actors on your production.
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  • Beginning Pre-Production

    Once the script is complete, learn the overview of the process of prepping the project to go to camera.
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  • Breaking Down the Script

    Learn to properly break down the script,  line the script, techniques for breaking down each scene, how to use scene breakdown forms, and how assistant directors and line producers should manage the breakdowns from other departments on the project. 
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  • Scheduling the Production

    Learn to determine the number of shooting days needed to shoot your film, how to determine the shooting order, manage day and night shoots, account for turnaround time, and the benefits of shooting consecutive shooting days.
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  • Scheduling the Day

    Learn how to schedule company moves, meal breaks, learn the productivity arc of a shooting crew, how to work with the director’ shot list, skills for managing a shoot running over schedule, how to generate a one-line schedule, and how to create call sheets.
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  • Budgeting

    Learn to create an accurate budget, tricks to reducing the budget if you’re running over, how to plan for contingencies, how to manage crew expectations, and how to go into production knowing you’ll have the money to finish.
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  • Insurance

    Learn how to insure your production against liabilities and costs incurred from accidents, the types of insurance you’ll need, where you can buy production insurance, the costs of insuring a production, cast insurance, film and video tape insurance, equipment insurance, and E&O insurance. 
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  • Finding Actors

    Learn how to work with casting directors to approach recognizable actors, how to develop a script that appeals to certain talent, the art of packaging, casting actors on your own, and the pros and cons of working with unknowns.
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  • Auditions

    Learn how to find the ideal audition space, attract qualified actors, conduct auditions, and learn what to look for so you can find the perfect cast for your movie.
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  • The Art of Auditioning

    Renowned actor, instructor, and author, Michael Laskin reveals the challenges facing both actors and directors in the audition process and how to overcome them.
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  • Callbacks

    Learn how to conduct the second and third auditions, what to do after the auditions, recognize danger signs in actors, and how to prepare the actors for the next step: the rehearsals.
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  • Working with Local Celebrities

    Learn the best way to approach local celebrities, how to use them, and the secret benefits they can bring to your movie. Working with local celebrities will not only improve the visibility of your production, but lead to a number of other benefits that can not only help promote the movie, but assist greatly in production.
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  • Analyzing Character

    In this module, you will learn directing techniques to help actors determine the subtext, intent, and back story of their characters. Develop your directing skills and help your actors portray honest, memorable characters.
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  • Rehearsing Actors

    Learn how to structure rehearsals, how to conduct a table read, and what the responsibilities are of the director and actors during the rehearsal process.
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  • Rehearsal Exercises

    Learn valuable techniques from working Hollywood directors to get to the heart of the actors’ performance, learn rehearsal techniques from developing the character to overcoming mental blocks on the set.
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  • The Language of Directing Actors

    Learn from Hollywood actors and directors on how to approach and work effectively with actors on set, how to deal with problematic actors, and how to communicate in the actor’s language.
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  • Acting in a Changing Industry

    Renowned actor, instructor, and author, Michael Laskin gives actors advice on how to survive in the ever-changing Hollywood industry.
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  • Acting Techniques

    Learn the various types of acting techniques - from Stanislavsky to Chekov.
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  • Acting Techniques For the Screen

    Renowned actor, instructor, and author, Michael Laskin gives brilliant advice on performing on camera.
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  • Directing Actors on Set

    Learn what to say to an actor at the beginning of every scene – 30 seconds before you call action and 30 seconds after you call cut, learn how to rehearse on set, establish strong blocking, and how to help actors balance their performance with the technicalities of film production.
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  • Directing Mistakes

    Learn to identify common directing problems and how to fix them to ensure you get the best performance on set possible.
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  • Directing Extras

    Learn how to find extras, the right way to direct them, how to cheat them on set, liability concerns and how to avoid them, logistics on the shooting day, and the most common problems filmmakers encounter when working with extras
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  • The Art Department

    Learn the structure and hierarchy of the Art Department, the duties and responsibilities and how this department can be scaled up based on the size of the production.
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  • Set Design

    Learn how to design sets on both large and small budget productions.
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  • Set Construction

    Learn how movie sets are constructed to create both a convincing environment and a workable production setting.
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  • Set Dressing

    Learn how to dress both practical locations and constructed movie sets to create a realistic environment for the characters.
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  • Creating the Look

    Learn how the art department creates the look of the environments in which the story takes place.
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  • Props

    Learn how props are created, gathered, and organized for a movie.
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  • Tour a Prop House

    Take a virtual tour of Lennie Marvin's Prop Heaven in Burbank, CA
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  • Location Scouting

    Learn how to scout locations and work with local resources to find the best possible environment for your movie
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  • Film Commissions

    Learn how to use the services of a film commission to secure locations for your movie
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  • Working with Location Owners

     Learn how to work with location owners, negotiate location agreements and deal with problems.
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  • Shooting on the Studio Backlot

    Learn about the resources and exterior sets available at the major studios in Los Angeles.
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  • Film Permits

    Learn when you need a filming permit and how to obtain one
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  • Location Tech Scouting

    Learn how to properly scout a location, what to look for and how to prep it for your shoot.
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  • Community Relations

    Learn how to professionally integrate a film production into a community
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  • Crew Structures

    Learn the various types of crews and the positions usually hired for small, medium, and large productions.
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  • Crew Positions

    Learn an overview of the primary positions on a movie set.
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  • How to Find a Crew

    Learn how to find your crew, regardless of how big or small your budget may be.
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  • The Line Producer

    Learn the duties and responsibiltiies of the line producer, both on and off the set.
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  • The Unit Production Manager

    Learn the duties and responsibilities of the Unit Production Manager, both on and off the screen.
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  • Production Coordinator

    Learn the duties and responsibilities of the Production Coordinator both on and off the set.
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  • The Director of Photography

    Learn the duties and responsibilities of the director of photography.
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  • 1st Assistant Director

    Learn the job responsibilities of the 1st Assistant Director.
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  • 2nd Assistant Director

    Learn about the responsibilites of the 2nd Assistant Director in pre-production and on set.
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  • 2nd 2nd Assistant Director

    Learn the duties and responsibilities of the 2nd 2nd assistant director in pre-production and on set
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  • Production Assistants

    Learn the duties, responsibilities, and expectations of production assistants on set.
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  • Script Supervisor

    Learn the duties and responsibilities of the script supervisor, from maintaining continuity to preparing the script notes.
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  • The Production Designer

    Learn about the Production Designer, his responsibility to the look of the film and her relationship with the director and cinematographer.
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  • The Art Director

    Learn the function, duties and responsibilities of the Art Director.
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  • The Construction Coordinator

    Learn the role of the Construction Coordinator and the construction department.
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  • Camera Operator

    Learn the duties and responsibilities of the camera operator both on and off the set.
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  • 1st Assistant Camera

    Learn the duties and responsibilities of the 1st Assistant Camera.
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  • 2nd Assistant Camera

    Learn the duties and responsibilities of the 2nd Assistant Camera on set
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  • Key Grip

    Learn the duties and responsibilities of the Key Grip
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  • Best Boy

    Learn the duties and responsibilities of the Best Boy
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  • Grips

    Learn the duties and responsibilities of the Grips
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  • Working as a Grip

    Hollywood veteran Casey Slade never ceases to entertain as he takes us inside the world of the grip department.
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  • Dolly Grip

    Learn the duties and responsibilities of the Dolly Grip
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  • Gaffer

    Learn about the duties and responsibilities of the gaffer.
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  • Best Boy Electric

    Learn the duties and responsibilities of the Best Boy Electric.
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  • Electricians

    Learn the duties and responsibilities of the Electricians.
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  • Craft Services and Catering

    Learn how to feed the cast and crew, sample menus, and serving suggestions.
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  • Costume Design

    Learn how costumes are designed and managed on set to help create the character.
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  • Make-Up

    Learn how to work with the make-up department, and how make-up affects the look of the actors on camera.
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  • What to Bring to Set

    As you prepare for your first day on set, this lesson walks you through what to wear and the tools to bring.
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  • Filmmaker's Toolkit

    Learn how to create a kit with the necessary tools, gadgets, and gizmos to help your set run smoothly and make you look like a hero when Murphy’s Law strikes.
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  • A Day On Set

    Learn what happens on a typical shooting day on a movie set.
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  • Proper Set Etiquette and Behavior

    Learn the unspoken rules of how to behave on a movie set.
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  • Working with Difficult Personalities

    Hollywood verteran Casey Slade has worked with everyone from A-list celebrities to new filmmakers, and shares some keen insight on how to deal with egos in the film industry.
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  • Walkie Talkie Etiquette

    Learn how to properly use walkie talkies on set.
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  • An Overview of Cinematography

    Learn the basic components of cinematography, the cinematographer's role, and how to work with the director.
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  • How a Cinematographer Preps a Project

    Learn how a cinematographer first begins a project, starting with how to read and evaluate the script.
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  • Building the Camera Package

    Learn the different components of the camera, accessories, and how to choose the tight combination for your project.
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  • How to Prep a Camera

    Drew Lauer, from Hollywood Special Ops, takes us through the process of prepping a camera package for a shoot.
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  • How to Test a Lens

    Learn how to test your lens and what problems to look for when preparing your equipment for a shoot.
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  • Film vs. Video

    Learn the differences between shooting on film versus shooting on digital video.
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  • Shooting Film

    Learn the process of shoot, buying, and processing film.
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  • Shooting Digitally

    Learn how to select and shoot on the proper digital format for your project.
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  • Imaging Sensor and ISO

    Learn how the imaging sensor works and how to use the ISO as an exposure tool.
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  • Frame Rates

    Learn about frame rates, how to choose the correct one, and the impact frame rates can have on your image.
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  • Tripods and Sliders

    Learn the types of camera support equipment - from tripods to jibs - and how to properly use them.
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  • Introduction to Lenses

    Learn about the attributes of the camera lens and how to choose the best lens for your production
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  • Taking Care of Lenses

    Learn how to properly handle and care for a camera lens
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  • Focusing Techniques

    Learn how to use focus tools - including the measuring technique, peaking, and 1:1 zoom to keep your shot in sharp focus
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  • How to Expose a Shot

    From zebra strips and light meters to false color and waveform monitors, learn how to use these tools to get the perfect exposure.
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  • The Art of Exposure

    We think of exposure as simply opening and closing the aperture, but it's really the balance of five settings, each of which alter the look of the shot.
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  • F-stops and T-Stops

    Learn how f-stops and t-stops work, and how to use them as a measure of exposure.
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  • The Zone System

    Learn how to use the zone system to determine the proper exposure for your shot
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  • Neutral Density Filters

    Learn how to use neutral density filters to control the exposure of your shot.
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  • Polarizers

    Learn how to use polarizers to enhance the look of your footage.
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  • Lens Focal Length

    Learn how the focal length of a lens affects the look of the shot.
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  • Macro Focus

    Learn to use macro focus when you're shooting a subject within the minimum focus of the lens.
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  • Back Focus

    Learn how to properly identify if the back focus is out on a camera and how to resolve it.
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  • The Camera Shutter

    Learn how the camera shutter works, its limitations, and how you can use use it to change the look of your footage.
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  • Managing Media

    Today's filmmakers almost always shoot on a digital format, and that makes digital media the new film negative. Learn how to properly manage your on-set media.
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  • Intro to Light and Exposure

    Learn the basics of exposure, latitude, the attributes of light, and the Inverse Square Law.
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  • Attributes of Light

     Learn the basic attributes of light and how to craft it to achieve the ideal cinematic look.
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  • Tungsten Lighting

    Learn how to work with, operate and trouble shoot tungsten lighting fixtures.
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  • HMI Lighting

    Learn about HMI light fixtures, how to operate, maintain and troubleshoot them.
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  • Kino-Flo Fluorescent Lighting

    Learn the types of Kino-Flo's and how to properly use them on set.
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  • LED Lighting

    Learn how to work with the newest LED lights.
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  • How to Build a Light Kit

    Learn how to build a light kit.
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  • Low Budget Lighting Tools

    Learn how to use simple, inexpensive lighting tool if you're on a budget or on the road.
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  • Using a Light Meter

    Learn the difference between the types of light meters, how to calibrate one, and how to properly use it to get the correct exposure every time.
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  • Reducing Light

    Learn the tools and techniques for reducing the brightness of light from a light source.
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  • Softening Light

     Learn tools and techniques for softening or diffusing light.
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  • Shaping Light

     Setting up a light is easy, but crafting it is an art.  Learn the tools and techniques for shaping light to achieve the desired look.
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  • Color Temperatures

    Learn about the colors of different light sources, how they affect the format on which you're shooting, and how to properly compensate.
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  • Lighting a Scene

    Learn how to assess an existing location, scene blocking and existing lighting to deterine the best way to light a set.
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  • Lighting Daytime Exteriors

    Learn how to light actors outside using only sunlight, reflectors and diffusion.
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  • Working with Mixed Light

    Learn how to mix and match light from different color temperatures to achieve the look you want.
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  • Three Point Lighting

    Learn a range of lighting techniques when lighting people.
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  • Lighting People

     Learn how to use the three-point lighting system to properly light people.
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  • Key Light Techniques

    Learn advanced techniques for shaping your actor's key light
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  • Advanced Lighting Techniques

    Learn advanced lighting techniques to add style and quality to your shot
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  • A Director's Prep - Beginning the Project

    Learn how to begin the directing process, read the script for the first time, best prepare long before you even set foot on set, and how to breakdown the script for character and story.
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  • How to Shoot a Scene

    Learn the process of how to shoot a scene: blocking, light, rehearse, tweak, and shoot.
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  • How to Direct a Scene

    Learn how to direct a scene from blocking the actors to choosing the camera angles.
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  • Blocking Actors

    Learn how to block the actors, what story cues to look for, how to drive the blocking emotionally, and how to work with the actors to get the best physical performance possible.
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  • Basic Coverage

    Learn the basic template for shooting the action in a scene - the master, coverage, inserts and cat-in-the-window shots, learn how to vary shot size to increase coverage, break the standard, plan for the edit, and ensure you get the coverage you need.
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  • Advanced Coverage

    Learn how to craft a oner, create a psychological impact for each shot, create compelling establishing shots, manipulate the pacing and rhythm of a scene, determine the opening visual, and enhance transitions from one scene to the next.  
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  • Directing a Chase Scene

    Television director Gil Bettman shows you how to direct a dynamic, exciting chase scene on a low budget.
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  • Storyboards and Pre-Visualization

    Learn how to work with a storyboard artist, use pre-visualization software, know how detailed storyboards should be, creative restrictions to be aware of, how to create storyboards even if you can't draw, and when to use animatics.
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  • Creating a Shotlist

    Learn how to create a shot list, location requirements, how to decide your shots, the elements in a shotlist, how the shot lists are used to schedule and budget a film, and to prepare for days when you go over schedule or over budget.
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  • How to Create Invisible Camera Moves

    Veteran Director Gil Bettman reveals inside-industry techniques for creating dynamic, yet invisible camera moves that engage the audience.
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  • Continuity and Script Notes

    Learn how the script supervisor tracks continuity and how to create a continuity notebook.
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  • Working with the Military

    Learn how to approach the National Guard, work with the US military, the types of resources the military can provide, and how to work with reenacters.
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  • Reality Show Interview Techniques

    Learn interview techniques on reality TV shows from veteran realty producer, Troy DeVolld.
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  • The Visual Story

    Learn how to use visual elements of shape, space, line, color, rhythm, movement and tone to frame the story.
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  • C-Stands

    Learn how to use one of the most often-used stands on set - the C-stand.
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  • Clamps

    Learn about the different types of clamps used to rig light fixtures and grip equipment on set.
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  • Dolly and Track

    Learn how to properly set-up a doorway dolly and track.
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  • Grip's Tools

    Learn the essential tools every grip needs when working on set.
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  • Rigging

    Learn the most common rigging tools used by grips on set.
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  • Knots for On Set Rigging

    Learn the most common types of knots used to secure grip rigs on set, and how to tie them.
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  • Roller Stands

    Learn about roller stands, how and when to use them.
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  • Stands

    Learn the most commonly-used stands used on location to support lights and overheads.
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  • Green Screen Techniques

    Learn how to properly light and expose green screen shots.
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  • Using a Clapboard

    Learn how to properly use one of the most iconic tools in the film industry.
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  • Using a Monitor

    Production monitors are used on practically every set.  In this module you will learn how to properly calibrate a production monitor to ensure that the image you see on screen is what is actually being recorded.
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  • The Documentary Format

    Learn about documentary storytelling, the types of documentaries, the challenges of the medium, observational cinema vs objective-driven stories.
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  • Documentary Story-Telling Tools

    Learn how to use interviews, B-roll, recreations, and archival footage to craft the story in your documentary.
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  • Finding the Story

    Learn how to find the story by refining the subject matter, develop a viable and engaging hypothesis, unlock the secrets of the story arc, find a balance between the art and commerce of documentary filmmaking, know the audience, and narrow down broad concepts.
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  • Documentary Pre-Production

    Learn how to effectively prep a documentary shoot, research your subject, properly use release forms and secure permissions to protect yourself legally, know what crew to hire, and how to determine when it’s time to shoot. 
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  • Choosing the Gear

    Learn how to prepare for life in the field, how to choose the right camera and camera support gear, how to manage batteries and media on location, how to prepare for audio recording, how to pack for the road, and how to make sure your gear survives airports and the airlines.
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  • The Interview Location

    Learn what to look for in potential locations, how to work in the all-too-common hotel room or conference room, how to make sure a space is rights-cleared, and how to create a comfortable environment for your subject. 
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  • Interview Camera Set-Ups

    Learn how to shoot interviews alone with one camera, one camera with an operator, a cross-shooting two-camera technique, how to work with different frame sizes, work with monitors, techniques for shooting on the run, and how and when to use auto settings.
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  • Preparing for the Interview

    Learn how to find qualified subjects, techniques for preparing to shoot the perfect interview, tips on what to wear, how to select the right chair, how to work through a translator, and how to deal with release forms – especially in a heated or controversial interview. 
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  • The Art of the Interview

    Learn how to warm up a nervous subject, how to determine the objective of the interview, the first question you should always ask, how to uncover the truth especially with subjects intent on deceiving or leading you, how to work with difficult subjects, how to conduct interviews in which you are also on camera, and how to conduct man-on-the-street interviews.
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  • Ethics and Objectivity

    Learn the difference between a subjective and objective approach to filmmaking, how to recognize bias, how to balance your own ethics and feelings in difficult situations, and ethical guidelines both in the field and in the editing room.
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  • Shooting B-Roll Footage

    Learn to harness the power of B-Roll for your film, how to use verité footage, basic coverage techniques in the field, how to shoot sequences, how to tailor B-roll for interviews, and how to shoot B-roll after the edit. 
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  • Field Shooting Techniques

    Learn when to shoot in auto or manual modes, how to properly shoot your coverage, how to adjust the amount of footage for the project, how to shoot green screen plates, how to work with ambient sound, and how to manage the legalities of a shoot.
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  • Editing Documentaries

    Learn how to manage your footage, organize interviews and B-roll, how to find and narrow the story, how to maintain your objectivity in the thick of the process, know what to cut, and how to finish the film.
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  • The Attitude of Safety

    Learn how human behavior can impact safety on set.
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  • Basic On-Set Safety

    Learn basic on-set safety practices
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  • On Location Safety

    Learn to identify and address safety concerns when shooting on location
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  • Studio Facilities Safety

    Learn industry-standard safety guidelines for shooting on a soundstage
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  • Vehicle and Roadway Safety

    Learn industry-standard safety practices for working around vehicles and roadways
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  • Shooting Moving Vehicles

    Learn industry-standard techniques for shooting moving vehicles
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  • Lighting Equipment Safety

    Learn industry standard safety techniques for working with light fixtures.
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  • Grip and Rigging Safety

    Learn industry standard practices for safe grip and rigging techniques
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  • Electrical Safety I

    Learn the basics of electricity and how an electrical circuit works
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  • Electrical Safety II

    Learn industry safe guidelines for working around energized sources
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  • Lifts, Trucks and Tools

    Learn industry standard safety guidelines for working around lifts, production trucks and when using power tools
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  • Weapon Safety

    Learn industry standard practices for using weapons on set
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  • Pyrotechnics and Special Effects

    Learn industry-standard techniques for working with pryotechnics, flames, smoke, fog and dust effects
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  • Environmental Safety

    Learn industry-standard techniques for working in various environments
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  • The Physics of Sound

    Learn how the sound wave works, why we hear sound, how frequency and amplitude affect the sound and our approach to recording it.
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  • How Microphones Work

    Learn how microphones function, their classifications, output configurations and how to choose the best microphone for the job
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  • Microphone Pick-Up Patterns

    Learn the different types of pick-up patterns, how they capture sound, and which to choose when recording audio.
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  • Audio Pre-Production

    Learn how to prepare for a shoot by breaking down the script, determining the best equipment to use and how to address complex scenes.
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  • Lavalier Microphones

    Learn how to properly set-up and use lavalier microphones on actors and on set
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  • The Microphone Boom

    Learn about the types and uses of boom poles, windscreens, shock mounts and techniques for monitoring audio
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  • Boom Operating Techniques

    Learn techniques for the proper placement and operation of the boom mic on set
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  • Location Recording Techniques

    Learn techniques for recording high-quality sound on location.
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  • Recording the Audio

    Learn the difference between analog and digital recording, how audio is encoded and recorded, setting levels, managing peaks, working with compressors and limiters, and how to record the perfect audio.
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  • Audio Configurations

    Learn the various ways to record the audio signal on set.
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  • Cables and Adapters

    Learn to use and care for cables and adapters when recording audio on set.
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  • Introduction to Editing

    Learn the basics of editing, when to start, and how to best prepare for the edit long before the cameras even start to roll.
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  • Building an Editing Suite

    Learn the components of an editing system, as well as the history of editing gear - from tape-to-tape editing to now.
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  • Hiring an Editor

    In this module, you will learn how to find a qualified editor, how to assess an editor’s demo reel, tips for ensuring his vision and communication style match yours, and how to ultimately get the best person for the job.
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  • Working with an Editor

    Learn techniques for communicating your vision to the editor, the editor’s workflow, and what you can do to get the best results possible in the editing room.
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  • The Psychology of Editing

    Learn when to cut, how to determine whether you should cut or not, the hierarchy of story-telling importance when editing, what to show or not show, and how to use psychology to craft a scene the invokes powerful emotions.
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  • Data Management and Workflow

    Learn how to develop a system for organizing the footage from set to post, how to develop a workflow that keeps the process smooth and conflict-free, how to conduct post-production meetings, the role of the post-production supervisor, standard techniques for labeling and managing footage, and data handling techniques.
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  • The Assembly Cut

    Learn how to approach the assembly cut, how to manage music and sound effects, what should or shouldn’t be included, and how to address issues of pacing, story, and character development.
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  • Stock Footage

    Learn how to use stock footage, how to understand a licensing agreement, where to find stock footage, how to manage the technical requirements, and what your rights are when distributing your production.
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  • How to Shoot and Edit a Dialogue Scene

    Learn to shoot dialogue on set, advanced techniques for manipulating the pacing and emotional intensity of the scene, how to work with changing background ambience, and techniques to improve actors' performance.
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  • How to Shoot and Edit Action

    Learn how to edit action for proper flow, continuity, and pacing, techniques for compressing time, revealing only the essentials to keep the story moving forward and advanced editing techniques.
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  • The Rough Cut

    Learn how to approach the rough cut, determine what moments work, how to re-structure the story, and ultimately create a movie that stands on its own- divorced from the script.
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  • Test Screenings and Feedback

    Learn how to prepare for and conduct a test screening, how to choose the right test audience, what questions to ask after the test screening, and how to filter the responses into usable comments that can improve the story.
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  • The Fine Cut

    Learn techniques for perfecting every single frame of your movie before locking the picture edit, how you will know when the movie is done, the implications of locking the picture, and the process of prepping the film for audio.
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  • Offline/Online Editing

    Learn how and when to work in an offline environment, how to transition to an online cut, and techniques for ensuring the process goes smoothly.
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  • Color Grading

    Learn the color grading process, how it differs amongst formats, the balance between technical and artistic grading, how to protect yourself from the “fix-it-in-post” mentality, and how to get the look you want.
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  • Understanding Compression

    Learn the fundamental principles of compression and how it affects the look and size of the footage.
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  • Intro to Audio Post-Production

    Learn the five components of audio and go to the sound studio to experience the construction of the audio for a scene.  Learn the ADR process, the contributions of Foley to the mix, the role of sounds effects and ambience, and the music.
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  • ADR

    Learn the technical process of re-recording the dialogue of a scene during the ADR process.
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  • Directing Actors in ADR

    Learn how to work with actors to get the best vocal performance possible during the ADR process, address acting problems and actor fatigue, and gain valuable tips on how to direct a natural and realistic performance so the ADR performance becomes better than the original delivery on set.
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  • Foley

    Learn how Foley is recorded and mixed to create and full, rich audio track. Learn the types of Foley, how much should be recorded, the process of recording Foley, and how to properly schedule and budget this creatively demanding aspect of audio post-production.
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  • Sound Effects

    Learn the process of creating a compelling sound effects track for your movie, where to find high quality sound effects, how sounds effects and Foley work together, how to find a balance with the dialogue and music, and the role of the sound effects editor.
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  • Mixing the Audio

    Learn how all the final components of the audio are mixed together.
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  • Scoring a Scene

    Learn how composer Chris First approached the scoring of a scene
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  • Emotion Through Music

    Learn to use music as a dramatic player in a way that properly supports the emotion of the scene without overwhelming the performance.
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  • The Who and How of Music

    Learn the people involved in crafting the score to a movie, the types of scores available, and how music is recorded - from synth to live instruments.
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  • Working with the Composer

    Learn how to work with a composer through scoring process, from the initial meeting to making changes to the completed score.
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  • Music Licensing

    Learn how music is licensed, and how existing music can be used in your production
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  • Film Marketing

    Learn how the massive marketing machine works in hollywood and how you can use it to promote your movie.
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  • Reaching Your Audience

    Learn how to effectively determine, define, and market to your audience.
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  • Designing the Key Art

    Learn how to design an effective movie poster that will reel your fans in, help you raise awareness in your film, and get a distribution deal.
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  • Making a Movie Trailer

    Learn how to market your movie with key do's and don'ts when making the trailer.
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  • Building Your Website

    Learn how to build an engaging website that will help you sell your film to audiences and distributors.
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  • Building a Press Kit

    Learn how to craft the idea press release to get the media interested in covering your story.
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  • Working with the Media

    Learn how to conduct yourself during television, print, and radio/podcast interviews to get the maximum exposure for your project.
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  • Intro to Distribution

    Learn how the distribution process works, the way studios approach the process, the windows and time frames of distribution, how to approach self-distribution, and knowing your audience.
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  • Film Ratings and the MPAA

    Learn how a rating can impact your ability to sell and monetize your movie, how to work with the MPAA, and the process of obtaining a rating.
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  • Domestic Distribution

    Learn the distribution process so you know what to expect, what materials are needed, and most importantly how to protect yourself in the high stakes game of film distribution.
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  • Foreign Distribution

    Learn how foreign sales agents work, how to find a reputable agent, common scams used to steal your movie without paying you, what you will be expected to deliver, how to collect your money, and hundreds of other tips.  We take you to the heart of it all at the American Film Market to see – firsthand, how the foreign distribution process works.
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  • Mistakes Filmmakers Make at Film Festivals

    Learn the top five mistakes filmmakers make at film festivals and how you can avoid them.
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  • Film Festivals

    Learn how to find a qualified producer’s rep, how to get into top film festivals, what to do once you are accepted, how to attract the right audiences at the screenings, and how to leverage the opportunity for your next production.
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  • Internet Distribution

    Learn how to properly distribute your movie online, how content aggregators work, how to find a unique presence online, and how to leverage your online movie to get your next movie deal.
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  • Composition

    Learn compositional techniques including the rule of thirds, how the great painters used mathematical principals like the golden ratio to create the perfectly composed images, how to balance line, color, and shape, and then how to break these rules.
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  • Creating Depth

    Learn techniques for crafting foreground, midground, and background elements, how to manage depth or flatness as a narrative tool, techniques used in network television shows to cheat depth, and the ways the camera lens can affect depth.
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  • Eye Lines

    Learn how to choose the best eye line, directing techniques for ideal camera placement, how to overcome challenges when working with visual effects, and how to fine tune actor’s eyelines within mere inches to achieve the desired emotional impact.
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  • Framing People

    Learn techniques for framing people from lead room to headroom, how networks and major studios influence framing choices of their programs, how to use single and dirty shots to convey connection or distance between characters, and how directors and cinematographers decide on common guidelines for each production.
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  • Shot Types

    Learn the intricacies of framing, the basic shot types, advanced variations on these shot types, how to quickly communicate your vision to the cinematographer, and the emotional responsive invoked by various shot types.
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  • The Frame

    Identify and work with different aspect ratios, manage conversions from film to HD, NTSC to HD, title safe requirements, and how various aspect ratios are adjusted for different exhibition and broadcast formats.
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  • Rule of 180

    Learn the core fundamentals of screen direction, how to establish the line of action, the rule of 180, exceptions to the rule of 180, instances where the line of action doesn’t apply, how to shoot multiple character with an ever-moving line of action, and how to prepare your shot lists to avoid catastrophic editing problems.
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  • How to Shoot a Spec Commercial

    Emmy-winning director, Jason Tomaric takes you through how he shot a $2,500 spec commercial for his demo reel to generate more clients.
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  • Amor & Psyche

    Learn about the making of the music video for "Amor & Psyche"
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