workshopOFFERINGS:
SHORT MOVIEMAKING 101
This workshop covers the structure, themes, and production techniques prevalent in today's short movies. Students will view and discuss short and super-short films in scene-by-scene detail, block and light scenes, discuss computer editing technology and learn how to get the most impact into no-budget movies, all in a relaxed, creative and encouraging atmosphere.
Intro to: EDITING
Your students will delve into the challenges, joys and creative problem-solving that encompass the world of video editing. This workshop will break down scenes frame-by-frame and review shot and angle selection, pacing, and timing, and review issues inherent in working with sound elements, graphics and special effects, and explain how to optimize your clip organization, backups and general "digital housekeeping."
Intro to: LIGHTING & CAMERA
Unleash your camera and let it fly! Spend this workshop absorbed in the techniques and specialties of camera and lighting, and bring new techniques to your next project. In the group, you'll review the basics and options available in today's video cameras; set up and adjust lightweight professional lighting gear, tripods and camera dollies; see the changes in atmosphere that special effects like fog machines and dry ice can bring to your camerawork; explore tabletop setups; block and light actors under different lighting conditions; and practice a range of camera movements to help you refine your vision.
recentTESTIMONIALS:
Here is some feedback from teachers and students following a presentation by BobsShorts Founder Bob Curtis-Johnson at a Kenai Peninsula Borough School District film festival…
K-Beach Elementary Teacher:
“Thank you for volunteering your time to come down and present to the students in our school district. As a teacher I took many notes on what lessons I can teach before we begin our work on a movie.”
K-Beach Students:
“We thought it was cool how you showed us how to use the camera in different ways.”
“Thank you for helping us be better movie makers.”
“I now have a dream and my dream is to be a filmmaker.”
“I liked the part about how to show expression when filming. Like by showing people in different angles.”
Soldotna Elementary and Montesorri Students:
“Camera angles were intriguing and fun to practice.”
“I really liked the rule of thirds. I was watching a movie last night and I picked out the thirds in the different pictures. I love taking pictures and videos, so this will really help me.”
“I liked the movie clips—especially ‘Christmas in Spenard.’ I liked the close-ups of the clock and the desk.”
“I liked pictures of Bob’s trips to the camera convention. And I also like the explanation of how you use a boom—that big stick with the microphone.”
Soldotna High School:
“Thanks to Bob for showing how to set up camera shots and plugging the camera through the projector so we could see it on the big screen. We could use more of that type of stuff.”
Sterling Elementary:
“I liked seeing your craziness!”
Tustumena Elementary:
“I really liked your presentation. It’s cool to learn about all the things we need to think about when making films. Thank you!”
“It was great to see how the camera worked with students on the big screen. Would you do more of that next year?”
“Thank you so much for presenting at the film festival! You are great! I hope to make a film again next year.”