As part of their TVFP 200 course (Techniques for Video and Film Production), third quarter Digital Filmmaking students at our Kelowna, BC film school get to participate in a “mentored film shoot”. The mentored film shoot brings together industry professionals, to give students hands on experience on a true film set environment. When we talked to the student participants from last year, many said that the mentored shoot was priceless experience in preparing them to work on real film sets.

During the shoot, students work through five areas alongside industry professionals, including Directing, AD (Assistant Directing), location sound, and camera operations.

In the coming weeks, quarter 3 student Jordan Marlin, will be bringing readers through the entire process, starting from the initial pitch, to the final hours in the editing room. He covered the pre-shoot a few weeks ago and today he talks to us about day two of the four day shoot!

Shoot Day 2

Our second day of shooting saw Shane and I directing our actors. After a quick consultation, we became set on what shots and angles we were going to use. With equipment in tow, we set out to where our camera setups would take place. It was a hot and sunny day, and we couldn’t ask for more ideal shooting weather.

We where tasked with the opening and finishing shots of our project, which is well known as the most influential sequences in any form of cinema. It was a daunting task, but well fitting for our direction team.

With the help of our mentor, Matt MacDowel, we decided on a jib shot for the opening and a smooth trucking shot to finish the film off. We worked closely with the camera crew to bring both our and Matt’s vision to film.

As the day drew to a close, I had a small epiphany regarding my job as a director. I was the main thoroughfare between script and actor. I am responsible for translating the cryptic blueprint of a script and presenting it to an actor in such a way to encapsulate the viewer. I was “The first audience” as Mr. MacDowel put it.

Students in the College for Arts and Technology’s Digital Filmmaking program are immersed in a practical film studio setting from day one. Our 18 month Canadian film school programs are offered in Kelowna, BC, Halifax NS, and Fredericton NB. Visit our program page or contact us to learn more about how you can get started on your film training in the near future!

Tags: BC Film Schooldigital filmmakingfilm school Kelownakelowna