Create impactful audio-visual content using your phone or tablet
Module details
- Offered to Year 1 students
- Tuesdays, 16.00-18.00
- 8 weeks (autumn term only)
- Planned delivery: On-campus (South Kensington)
- Non-credit only
Got any questions?
Contact the lecturer:
Dr Athanasia Batziou
As video becomes easier and quicker to produce it is becoming an increasing important medium in all areas of life. Although old, analogue film production still has an important place, these expensive practices have long since been superseded by cheaper, more versatile digital ones. And with smartphones, tablets and other small devices a part of daily life, film making is well on its way to being democratised. Now is an exciting time to think and play with film.
In this short introductory module, we will look at some basic principles of film making, explore what makes a good film, and learn how to get the most from our mobile devices. From generating an idea to working it up, producing a production plan, filming and editing, this module will take you through the process of making a film of your own, from start to finish.
This module is designed to give you the confidence to use your own devices to produce arresting audio-visual content. You may be inspired by STEM, or you may choose to engage in a particular hobby or interest. You might even use the medium to explore a new area that excites you. Since we will cover basic film making practices, the module can function as an introduction to film making, or as a primer for creating and using audio-visual material in a variety of contexts.
Information blocks
On completion of this module, you will be better prepared to:
• record and edit audio and video using appropriate devices.
• produce effective footage using the audio/video facilities of digital devices along with supplementary software and hardware, where applicable.
• create an original video using basic compositional processes.
• write a reflective essay by applying key concepts, research, and feedback.
This module encourages you to reflect on what it means to produce a 'good' film and on the importance of staying true to one’s values throughout the creative process. You will gain hands-on experience by working on short filmmaking exercises, designed to build a repertoire of techniques for creating visually arresting images.
You will also learn how to capture audio and make thoughtful decisions about the use of music in film. You will engage in production planning, learning how to refine, articulate, and pitch a film idea.
The module includes a student-led filming project, where you will create compelling images and craft a story that resonates with your audience.
The module culminates in group presentations, during which you analyse and discuss your video work and those of classmates, exploring its intention, context, structure, production techniques, and overall effectiveness.
Many of the eight sessions will begin with a short lecture or group discussion component, followed by a more substantial practical, student-led component. This will include time for you to work in groups towards the eventual completion of a film. You will be given time to freely experiment with new techniques and skills learned in that session and to apply them to your own creative work.
There will also be points within the module where you and fellow students can share work-in-progress with one another and given the opportunity to share feedback for subsequent implementation.
The module will enable you to embrace technology you have to hand. In most cases, this will be a mobile device such as a phone or tablet. Apps exist to support you controlling parameters such as white balance, exposure, ISO, and related factors. You will learn how to access and manipulate such features on your own devices, with the bulk of class time dedicated to techniques such as conducting interviews and presenting in front of a camera, as well as framing and establishing locations.
- Coursework: Final portfolio submission (5-minute group video) (70%)
- Coursework: Reflective essay (700 words) (30%)
- ECTS value: 0
- Requirements: You must be prepared to attend all classes and to spend about an hour a week preparing for each session
- This module is designed as an undergraduate Level 4 course. For an explanation of levels, view the Imperial Horizons Level Descriptors page.