Division of Continual Learning
Digital Filmmaking Certificate for Teens
Perhaps the fastest growing medium of the modern age is digital filmmaking. As technology progresses, the tools of this fascinating trade are more and more accessible. Now, you too can be part of this growing, glamorous industry. UNCG’s Digital Filmmaking Program, led by industry professionals, will teach you the necessities for making your first digital masterpiece, and many to follow. The classes are kept small, a maximum of twelve students, to assure you receive hands-on attention as we guide you through the filmmaking process. By the end of these courses, you will have not only greater insight in the trade, but your own short film and a certificate that could help serve as a profitable side job or even a career. To be well prepared for this class, be sure you have a digital video camera that uses mini-dv tapes. You can complete this certificate in two, 12-week modules.
Watch our students' testimonies here:
The Stairwell:
The Movie:
UNCG's Digital Filmmaking Program for Teens will teach you the necessities for making your first digital masterpiece.
To register, click here and then follow the steps: Click on "CALL" -> Click on "Career, Certificates & Life Planning" -> Click on "Digital Film Making Certificate for Teens"
Digital Filmmaking for Teens: Module 1
Price: $499
Dates: September 7 - December 7 (no clss Oct. 19 & Nov. 30) • 12 Sundays, 1-4pm
Register Before: September 2
Instructors: Greg Robbins & Bryan Higgins
Module 1 employs hands-on training with industry professionals, exploring the design, techniques, and execution of a solid independent film. Students will learn to shoot, light, and edit their own short films using both professional equipment and around-the-house resources. You will need to bring your own digital video camera to each class, along with a tripod and MiniDV tape (or whatever tape/DVD format your camera requires); the rest is up to your imagination. Members of 2007’s Digital Filmmaking Certificate for Teens class entered their short film, “The Stairwell” in the 2008 Carolina Film and Video Festival and won first prize in their category! Will you be the next award winner?
Please click here for a week-by-week outline.
Bryan R. Higgins has extensive experience in all facets of filmmaking including writing, directing, sound design, editing, and working with the film industry’s standard hardware and software for shooting, capturing and editing digital videography. He has served as the primary digital editor for the UNCG Division of Continual Learning’s Online Multimedia Team since 2004.
Greg Robbins is a graduate of UNCG’s Broadcasting and Cinema program and is an award-winning filmmaker with experience in writing, directing and producing numerous short and feature length film projects. His background in multiple facets of the media industry, including videography, sound design and editing have allowed Greg to further strengthen his aptitude for filmmaking. Captivated by visual media at an early age, Greg has followed this passion to create imaginative works of increased complexity and style.
Digital Filmmaking for Teens: Module 2
Price: $499
Dates: February 1 - May 20, 2009 (no class March 8, 15 & April 12) • 8 Sundays, 1-4pm
Register Before: September 2
Instructors: Will Singletary and Michael Williams
Module 2 employs hands-on training with industry professionals to nurture the artistic identity, story development, aesthetics, and unification of a solid independent film in order to produce a well told story through film. Students will learn the basics of performing arts and distinguish stage acting from acting for motion picture, find the artistry of filmmaking, and understand the importance of working as a team. Students will merge the technical skills developed in Module 1 with the artistic components of Module 2 to direct and complete a short film by the end of the class.
Please click here for a week-by-week outline.
William Singletary currently works as a videographer for the division of Continual Learning at UNCG. Will has shot video that aired on national TV. He has worked professionally for four years on film and video sets.
Michael Anthony Williams is a 2004 graduate of North Carolina A&T State University, with a B.F.A. in Professional Theater (Directing concentration). Michael has extensive filmmaking experience with 10 film credits since completing his college education. Several of his films have had festival exposure. Michael has a background in arts education, as an acting instructor with the Community Theater of Greensboro. He also wrote, directed and produced children’s stage productions for Black History Month events.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Will there be homework?
Some courses may suggest assignments for home that will help further strengthen student’s skills, but they are not mandatory.
What kind of camera is best for the class?
A camera that uses Mini-DV tapes is recommended. If every student uses the same recording format, it’s easier and convenient to view one another’s work. Mini-DV cameras can be found for as low as $200.
What level of experience is required?
None. Some students may have more experience than others, but the activities in our courses range for various skill levels. Some students will be learning to load a tape for the first time, while some will have already made dozens of their own short films at home.
Is attendance mandatory?
We ask that each student miss no more than one day of class. Each day is packed with new information that is necessary for future classes, as well as to earn the Digital Filmmaking Certificate. Exceptions will be made for particular circumstances.
Do I have to take both modules?
No. You can enjoy Module 1 without continuing to Module 2. However, in order to earn the Digital Filmmaking Certificate, successful completion of both modules is mandatory.
What can I do with my Digital Filmmaking Certificate?
Once you are a certified Digital Filmmaker, you can use the credential on a college application or job resume.
Why only twelve students per class?
Our goal is to provide hands-on training while catering to each student’s individual needs. Small groups create a more open and flexible working environment for both students and instructor.