Diploma of Film

In this practical subject students will gain a basic overview of the stages involved in film production and engage in filmmaking practice at an introductory level. Students will write and produce a short film, edit the film and present it for review. They will be introduced to industry terminology and practice in camera operation, audio, lighting, green screen shooting, video editing and production planning processes. This subject will develop students’ abilities in production management, creativity, adaptability and presentation skills.

In this subject, students will be introduced to film and digital language through an exploration of the fundamental themes, concepts and principles that apply to film and animation. During the subject, students focus on film history, genre, style, mood and context, and will also learn about foundational animation techniques, like stop motion and illustration with movement. Additionally, reflection and research skills will be developed, as well as the impact of technology on the moving image.

In this subject students will apply visual storytelling design and composition methods such as script writing, drawing, storyboard, animatic and camera composition conventions to visualise and prepare stories for production. Scene structures and character development will be introduced and application of planning principles to several forms of media such as animation and film will be considered. This subject will assist students to develop organisational and creative skills while utilising presentation techniques and responding to feedback.

Image Design will provide students with a solid foundation in the technical tools and design skills needed to create and manipulate digital images. Students will be introduced to image editing software and then move on to develop moving image editing techniques, exploring and applying theories of film editing. This will include layering and transparencies, title design, timing and rhythm in editing, colour correction, and applying masks and filters to images. Both photographic and filmic skills will be applied to the development of a portfolio which will require responding to a brief, creative thinking, problem solving skills, and presenting and exhibiting work. Image copyright law will also be considered and applied to student work.

Camera operation, lighting and focus form the nucleus of this subject. Students will learn how to set up and shoot scenes to achieve optimal visual results. Image composition, camera mounting, movement, lighting, lens usage and depth of field will be explored through the practical implementation of a range of advanced cinematic techniques. The importance of creating specific styles and genres in response to a director’s brief will be emphasised as students develop the ability to enhance narrative and emotional content through visual media. Production process, teamwork skills, and response to feedback will be
included in this engaging encounter with cinematography.

This subject provides an introduction to script and screenwriting for film and animation. During the subject, students will explore the theories and principles of narrative construction and expand the ability to produce sequential art, develop characters, subtext, scenes and screenplays. There will be a focus on plot development, creative writing and visual illustration, as well as how to apply film language in the creation of mood, tension, pacing and drama. Additionally, students will learn how to seek feedback, reflect and adapt during the screenwriting process.

This subject will lead students through a full film production cycle in which they apply the filmmaking skills they have acquired in earlier subjects. Students will research and analyse a topic or cause and represent that area of interest through a documentary film. A variety of causes for documentary subject matter will be explored as students engage with society and participate in cultural debate. Documentary theories and styles will be discussed and students will adopt a mode of documentary, in a specific style, to present their case. Interview techniques will be explored, and camera operation, audio and editing skills will be refined. Production management, time management and planning will be central to the process. Communication skills and conflict resolution when dealing with the public will be developed. As with all film production, documentary requires the ability to accept feedback and respond appropriately, engaging with peers and external stakeholders to refine and improve the final product. The outcome of this subject is a substantial portfolio piece that will enhance student showreels and demonstrate their versatility and professionalism.