Production Techniques

Unit Aims
This unit aims to introduce students to the basic principles of video camcorder technology, production, lighting & location photography, video and camera terminology and audio recording. This enables students to put into practise video & stills production theory and gain experience in the safe and competent operation of equipment.

Learning Objectives
At the completion of this unit students should be able to:
• Use MiniDV and HDV based, prosumer video production technology;
• Use the principles of shooting to edit, demonstrating how location shooting impacts on the editing
and program creation process;
• Employ video specifications, formats and prevailing industry technical standards;
• Demonstrate competency in basic lighting techniques, as well as safe operation of production
lighting and grip equipment;
• Explore the principles of lighting, with the focus on creating 3-dimensional images that enhance the
unit of study or convey a given mood using still & moving images
• Control colour temperature and mix light sources;
• Document television industry specific production procedures and workflows in technical journal;
• Complete an individual project and series of camera and audio exercises, demonstrating
competency of basic camcorder technology.
• Creative use of camera and compositional construction
• Analysis and editing of images

HDFTV112 employs a learning and teaching method centered on class lectures, demonstrations, practical workshops, and in-class practical exercises.

Brief 1: Tech Journal.
Individual task, 15%, due Week 12

Brief 2: Shooting for Editing - MiniDV
Group task, 10%, due Week 4

Brief 3: Location & Studio Lighting
Group task, 10%, due Week 7

Brief 4: Individual 90 Second Project & Shooting HDV
Group task, 25%, due Week 13

Brief 5: Creative use of the camera and analytical image editing (Photography)

Individual task, 40%, due Week 12

 

Swinburne University works to produce higher education graduates who are capable in their chosen
profession. Learners bring to Swinburne a diverse wealth of experiences and graduate with individual
understandings, abilities and attitudes.
Within this context, HDFTV112 Production Techniques aims to provide students with the following
attributes:
• Operate effectively and ethically in work and community situations;
• Are adaptable and manage change;
• Are aware of local and international environment in which they will be contributing.

Lectures and exercises covered will include:
• Function and operation of MiniDV and HDV camcorders and still cameras
• Operation of external microphones and basic location recording;
• Lighting equipment, lighting techniques as well as production grip equipment;
• Shooting for editing and analysis of the image
• Analogue and digital video broadcast standards;
• Formats and specifications;
• Aspect ratios (4x3 and 16x9);
• Progressive and interlace acquisition modes, television industry production protocols;
• Processes and workflows;
• Film and Television industry technical information and terminology.

 

Working in a group environment, and based on class lectures and studio workshops, students will:
• Complete a series of exercises designed to raise technical competency in MiniDV and HDV
prosumer video production technology;
• Complete a series of exercises to explore still photography techniques
• Contribute to Class lecture discussions;
• Participate in practical workshops;
• Complete in class/studio/location practical exercises.