PROGRAMS
Digital Filmmaking & Video Production
The Digital Filmmaking and Video Production program is designed to teach students all aspects of film and video production and broadcast. From basic classes all the way through advanced, students will receive hands-on education using up-to-date technology found in the field and used by professionals worldwide for any type of production.
We cover every stage of production in blocks where students progress through more advanced projects and processes. Students will be given projects in each course to develop their skills as they apply them in the real world.
F.I.R.S.T. Institute students are graded and held accountable for each course they encounter. Consistent exercises and quizzes keep students active and interested in the information given by the instructor. F.I.R.S.T. Institute’s primary objective for the program is simple: to provide students with a superior education through exposure to the elements that drive their passion and equip them with the necessary skills and knowledge to thrive in the Digital Filmmaking and Video Production industry.
Prerequisite: Basic computer and internet competencies. High school level English or higher.
Delivery Methodology: On Campus
Average Class Size: 16 Students
Upon successful completion of the program, graduates obtain a Diploma.
Thirty-nine (39) Weeks – 1014 Clock Hours / 91.26 Academic Quarter Credit Hours
811 Hours / 81.11 Academic Quarter Credit Hours – Instruction 203 / 10.15 Academic Quarter Credit Hours – Lab
- Program Name Digital Filmmaking & Video Production
- Total Clock Hours 1014
- Hours - Instruction 811
- Hours - Lab 203
- Your Creative P.A.K. (Included)
- Class Materials (Required)
- DFVP 101 – Storytelling and Video Technology
- DFVP 102 – Digital Editing and Visual Effects
- DFVP 103 – Commercial Production
- DFVP 104 – Music Video Production
- DFVP 105 – Short Film Production
- DFVP 106 – Documentary Filmmaking
- DFVP 107 – Live Video Production
- DFVP 108 – Color Grading
Students will cover the fundamental techniques and concepts of digital video, editing principles, and visual storytelling. The concept of visual storytelling will be explored and analyzed within various media projects to demonstrate the importance of constructing a fully developed idea using moving images. The course will instruct the process of video editing through the development of several media projects and footage assets.
There is an emphasis on editing with story continuity, media management, narration, and industry terminology. More time will also be dedicated to the importance of sound in the post environment and its subtlety in keeping the viewer grounded in the images onscreen. Classes will explore simple animation techniques, including the basics of motion graphic design. Learning to animate, alter, and composite media using various tools, including the use of optional plug-ins, is paramount to the process and workflow of every motion graphic professional.
DFVP 102 – Digital Editing and Visual Effects
- Commercial Edit Project
- Music Video Editing Project
- Short Film Project
In Commercial Production, students will break from the conventions of traditional modes of visual storytelling to explore short-form and digital-media creation methods. The primary focus will be on creating projects for social media and marketing.
As post-production unfolds, students will begin editing the projects shot during this course. During the post-production process for each of their projects, students will further refine their understanding of important editing techniques, including the use of transitions and sound effects to help convey a message to the audience. Additionally, the use of motion graphics and unconventional aspect ratios will be introduced as a way to prepare projects for social media outlets.
DFVP 103 – Commercial Production
- Movie Theater Intro Project
- Product Shot Project
- Spec Commercial Project
- Social Media Ad Project
- Client Commercial Project
In Music Video Production, students will develop and produce an advanced project with a focus on the music video. A music video project will help students understand the principles of shooting and how to work with real clients.
At this level, classes also have a working knowledge of advanced editing techniques, including editing on the beat, color correction, and sound effects.
DFVP 104 – Music Video Production
- Pre-Production & Pitch Project
- Music Video Project
In Documentary Filmmaking, students will be introduced to the fundamental concepts and techniques involved in producing documentary-style projects. Interview lighting techniques, multi-camera production, and the importance of b-roll to help tell a story will be reinforced through the production of a short documentary on a local person, location, or event.
Additionally, students will learn the basics of DaVinci Resolve for editing, color correction, and audio post-production through hands-on exercises and demonstrations before completing the final edit of their documentary and the short film from the previous course.
DFVP 106 – Documentary Filmmaking
- Pitch Project
- Assembly Cut Project
- Documentary Project
Students will learn the fundamentals of live video production and streaming by using up-to-date technology. Students will be part of a production team in the preparation and production of live shows for both traditional broadcast and live streaming, as well as corporate presentations.
In this course, students will learn the technical aspects of streaming software and studio equipment and continue learning proper signal flow live productions. They will learn specific camera, lighting, and production techniques unique to each of these live show productions, as well as the many different career paths within these industries.
DFVP 107 – Live Video Production
- Cameras & Signal Flow Project
- Conference Set Up Project
- Multi Camp Production Project
- Broadcast Project
- Live Streaming Project
- Event Videography Project
Students will learn the essentials of color theory and apply these concepts in the professional colorist program DaVinci Resolve. Practical techniques related to color correction and color grading will be introduced through hands-on exercises using the node-based system within DaVinci.
Additionally, students will take another look at Fairlight as they work to enhance the audio in their projects from previous courses. Using all of the tools and techniques they have learned during their time in the program, they will finalize their demo reels using clips from their best work.
DFVP 108 – Color Grading
- Correct & Grade Project
- Demo Reel Project
- Live Shows & Concerts Project
Admissions & Financial Aid
Admissions Process
Personalized Tours – Our admissions team is dedicated to helping you find a program that best fits your goals. Take an in-person or virtual tour to see how F.I.R.S.T. can help you.
Apply Anytime – With class starts occurring every other month, you can apply now and find a start date that works best for your schedule
Flexible Schedules – Classes meet in the morning or evening allowing you to find one that best fits your busy schedule.
Funding Your Education
Tuition – Our tuition covers the entire program cost, including access to equipment and production facilities on campus, as well as the Creative P.A.K.
Federal Aid – We strongly encourage incoming students to explore financial aid options. Pell Grants and student loans are available to those who qualify.
