Syllabus: Producing and Directing Digital Video (THTR 3890)

THTR 3890:0001 Cross Reference: DANC 3890:0001 | INTM 3890:001
Fall, 2019 || T&TH: 3:30p-5:20p

Instructor: Daniel Fine, Assistant Professor of Digital Media in Performance

Course Description: An introduction to the basic concepts, theories and practical applications of digital video production for multiple distribution streams, with a focus on aesthetic and technical principles, that is open to students from any department. The primary focus of the course is for students to develop proficiency in contemporary approaches to digital media production, by understanding the production pipeline, from Ideation to Pre-Production, Production, Post-Production and through to Distribution. Emphasis will be placed on developing skills in writing, producing, directing, shot composition, lighting, location sound recording, non-linear editing and other skills necessary to create a compelling and engaging digital video. Working in groups, students will be assigned practical projects using professional grade media software and hardware.

Course Objectives and Goals:

  • Understand the basic concepts, theories and practical applications of digital video production for multiple distribution streams.
  • Understand the production pipeline of digital video production.
  • Develop skills in writing, producing, directing, shot composition, lighting, location sound recording, editing and other skills necessary to create a compelling and engaging digital video.
  • Operate digital video production gear, including a DSLR camera package, sound package, lighting gear, and grip packages.
  • Be able to perform basic video editing, compositing and fundamental sound editing.
  • Develop the organizational skills necessary to successfully produce digital video projects.
  • Learn how to make digital videos on a small or non-existent budget using guile, guts and problem-solving techniques.
  • Improve teamwork and communication skills.
  • Collaborate across disciplines.
  • Critique and evaluate work.

Course Topics:

  • Intro, check-outs, studio, reservations
  • Camera, A+B, Vimeo
  • Workflow & pipeline
  • Copyright, fair use, creative commons
  • Who does what
  • Audio gear
  • Audio editing with Audition
  • Lighting gear, grip
  • Style, design
  • Animation, keyframes
  • Inclusion and casting
  • Script, budgeting, scheduling
  • Pitches, ideation, visualizing
  • Shooting & editing greenscreen

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Syllabus: Performing with Technology (THTR 3875)

Topics in Digital Performing Arts: Performing with Technology: THTR 3875:0001 Cross Reference: DANC 3875:0001
Spring, 2021 || T&TH: 3:30p-5:20p

Instructor: Daniel Fine, Assistant Professor of Digital Media in Performance

Course Description: Advanced techniques in virtual/online performance with established and new technologies including live cameras, audio, greenscreen, special effects, and controlling digital avatars.

Course Objectives and Goals:

  1. Understand the basic concepts, theories and practical applications of performing in virtual/online platforms.
  2. Develop applied knowledge of creating virtual/online performance.
  3. Cite and discuss historical and contemporary artists and companies working in virtual performance.
  4. Work collaboratively across disciplines to investigate performance approaches to virtual/online and new modes of storytelling.
  5. Develop skills in manipulating digital assets and operating virtual platforms.
  6. Operate computer, camera, and sound equipment and virtual platforms.
  7. Improve teamwork and communication skills.
  8. Critique and evaluate work.

Course Topics:

  • Intro, gear, check-out, studio, system, in-class assignments
  • Zoom interface
  • Sound
  • Camera
  • Greenscreen
  • Special Effects
  • Avatars
  • Pitches
  • Virtual Performance Technology
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Syllabus: Projection Design (TH617)

TH617: Projection Design, Section 001, Spring 2020

Instructor: Matt Reynolds

COURSE DESCRIPTION: Lecture, discussion, and projects, training in theatrical projection design; 3 cr. Provide the graduate level design & technical student an in-depth understanding of the design methods of stage projection, including workflow; generation/acquisition of imagery; visual effects; video production; video systems; hardware; surfaces; and control.

STUDENT LEARNING OUTCOMES: Students will utilize key creative programs to achieve artistic goals. Students will display professional behavior in learning and presentation. Students will execute vital calculations and coordinate technical paperwork. Students who succeed in this course should be able to fulfill the duties of a Projection Designer at the University level.

CLASS OBJECTIVES: The professor will discuss and demonstrate theatrical projection terminology, workflow, design techniques, implementation, and paperwork.

COURSE TOPICS:
  • Digital Media History, Careers, Skills
  • Microsoft PowerPoint, Excel, Word
  • Adobe Photoshop
  • Collaboration
  • Workflow
  • Adobe AfterEffects
  • Design Principles & Media Attributes
  • Content & Video Production
  • Adobe Premiere
  • Animation & Effects
  • Figure 53 QLab
  • Video Signals & Media Servers
  • Projectors
  • Dataton Watchout
  • Surfaces & Cameras
  • Networks & Sensors
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