Course

Unit I

Concept of Shots

Introduction to different types of shots: long shot, medium shot, close-up, etc.- Exploration of camera movements and angles

Unit II

Visual Language and Composition

Understanding visual composition principles such as framing, balance, and symmetry, depth- cues- Dynamics of camera lens- Analysis of how visual elements contribute to storytelling and mood.

Unit III

Editing and Shot Transitions

Introduction to editing techniques: cuts, fades, dissolves, etc.-Exploration of continuity editing principles and montage.

Unit IV

Sound Design and Audiovisual Language

Understanding the role of sound in cinematic storytelling- Analysis of diegetic and non-diegetic sound, sound effects, music, and dialogue- Exploration of how sound enhances narrative and emotional impact.

Unit V

Introduction to Lighting

Introduction to lighting setups and techniques: three-point lighting, low-key lighting, high-key lighting, etc.

• Qualities of cinematic lighting-Hard and soft lighting, – Exploration of how lighting contributes to the visual aesthetics and mood of a scene.

Objective:

This course aims to equip students with a comprehensive understanding of cinematic language and production. They will learn to identify and utilize various shot types effectively, grasp principles of visual composition for storytelling and mood, manipulate camera movements and angles, and explore lens dynamics. Furthermore, they will gain proficiency in editing techniques and continuity principles, understand sound design’s narrative role, and explore lighting setups and their impact on visual aesthetics and mood. Through practical application and critical analysis, students will develop the skills needed to create compelling cinematic experiences.

Course Outcome (CO):

CO1: Students will recall and identify various types of shots, including long shots, medium shots, and close- ups, and demonstrate their understanding of these shot types through examples from cinematic works.

CO2: Students will comprehend the principles of visual composition, including framing, balance, and symmetry, and explain how these elements contribute to storytelling and mood in film. They will also interpret the effects of different camera movements, angles, and lens dynamics on visual perspective and depth cues.

CO3: Students will apply editing techniques such as cuts, fades, and dissolves to create cohesive and engaging narratives. They will also implement continuity editing principles and montage to effectively convey sequences of events and ideas.

CO4: Students will analyze the role of sound design in cinematic storytelling, distinguishing between diegetic and non-diegetic sound, and identifying how sound elements contribute to narrative and emotional impact.

CO5: Students will evaluate different lighting setups and techniques, including three-point lighting, low- key lighting, and high-key lighting, assessing their effectiveness in achieving desired visual aesthetics and mood in film scenes.

CO6: Students will integrate their understanding of shots, visual composition, editing techniques, sound design, and lighting in their own short film projects.

CO-PO Mapping:

Suggested References:

1. The Filmmaker’s Eye: Learning (and breaking) the Rules of Cinematic Composition: Gustavo Mercado
2. The Filmmaker’s Eye: The Language of the Lens: The Power of Lenses and the Expressive Cinematic Image: Gustavo Mercado
3. The Visual Story: Creating the Visual Structure of Film, TV and Digital Media: Bruce Block
4. How to Read a Film: James Monaco
5. Cinematography: Theory and Practice: Image Making for Cinematographers and Directors: Blain Brown