Introduction to Filmmaking

Learning digital video production is vital for independent filmmakers and for anyone interested in harnessing the power of media. Camera Fundamentals is accessible and easy-to-learn, teaching you basic concepts and technical skills applicable to any camera.  In this classic DCTV Workshop, use an HD video camera to learn about focus,...

Designed for those seeking an extensive introduction to the world of digital production, this comprehensive hands-on workshop combines content from our Camera, Lighting and Audio Fundamentals workshops, and goes one step further with a session on pre-production and full-day to practice shooting. Capture Manhattan at 24 frames...

Get that 35mm film look with these ever-popular still cameras that shoot HD video, complete with stellar image quality, adjustable frame rates and customizable manual settings. Compare the full frame Canon 5D with the crop frame 7D, practice dual system audio, and take your creativity to new heights with Canon EF/EF-S mount lenses. Get ready to use...

In this Digital Cinematography, see the big picture of camera work and what you can do as a DP to best achieve the aesthetic goals of your project. Using the Blackmagic URSA Mini Pro, experiment with framing and composition, lenses and depth of field, and advanced manual image control techniques. What works best with the conditions and style you...

What are the standard costs for making a documentary film? Have we considered all of our potential line items? There’s only so long that you can guess at your numbers. Learn how to create a realistic and professional budget catered to your film’s needs and scope that will secure funding and keep your project on track! Topics include: Budget...

Is it okay to show incidental logos in my film? If music is playing in the background of a scene, does it need to be licensed? Does my personal release form cover everything? Documentary filmmakers incur many legal questions while developing their project, and rightfully so. This workshop guides filmmakers through an introduction to common legal issues...

Producing starts with an idea. The Introduction to Producing seminar is for individuals interested in the role of Producer and who would like to learn the fundamentals relating to the responsibilities involved in the production, distribution and exhibition of created content.  Building the creative team, script development, research, finance,...

Announcing a next-generation professional-level five-week on-camera intensive conducted by the Content Director & Producer Kristen Hartley [IBM Originals] and Richard Jordan [Richard Jordan Casting].  This is a program guaranteed unlike any other program you have experienced. For each of their individual two weeks, Kristen and Richard...

View clips of films that have impacted style of dress in recent decades. This energetic and captivating program examines movie star characters that have influenced mainstream fashion through iconic looks. See how memorable characters from the screen have created everlasting design language that serves as a reference for designers of all types: costume,...

Explore the detail and nuance of editorial decisions that make the art of documentary so distinct from sheer documentation. Beyond the technical skills of an editor lies the challenge to build a narrative and tell an enticing story. After reviewing and discussing a wide range of documentary clips, explore essential concepts such as pacing, scene structure,...

Eager filmmakers, come forward for a comprehensive immersion in documentary storytelling! This in-depth workshop takes you through the pre-production, production, and post-production process. During week one, examine the documentary form by reviewing films, pitching your doc idea, creating a shot list and preparing for production. During week two,...

For many filmmakers, the first step on the road to recognition and distribution is a successful film festival run. Learn to navigate the challenges and nuances of the ever-changing festival circuit without emptying your wallet or limiting your chances for future opportunities.  Find out which film festivals are best suited for you and your film,...

Ask any film directors today: the influence of French New Wave is unprecedented. From music videos to Instagram, the aesthetics of Jean-Luc Godard, François Truffaut and Alain Resnais has been imitated countless times. In this workshop, we will study the cultural impact of this era in cinema, a time where making films meant collaborating with friends...

Along with informative seminars you will explore the technical side of the process by getting hands on experience with Cameras, Lighting and Sound. Wonder what goes into making a film? Considering Film School? Is filmmaking for you? The Weekend Seminar is designed as a comprehensive overview of the process of making a film from script through Screening. ...

Get the basics of writing a screenplay, so you can get cracking on that script you've been wanting to write. You'll learn about structure, character development, subtext, external and internal conflict, and where to go once you've completed it.

AbelCine has partnered with the International Colorist Academy (ICA) to offer this Resolve 101 workshop. This three-day, hands-on workshop is an excellent introduction to DaVinci Resolve V14 software. It is ideal for first-time users, and you do not need to be a Colorist to attend. The workshop mixes the operational side of Resolve with some practical...

You have a great idea for a documentary, and maybe even some great footage. But how does it fit together? Are you telling a clear or most impactful story?  Discuss different ways of shaping documentary films, including three-act structure, theme, plot, and character arcs, and discuss specific films as case studies. You will then have up to 15...

The ASC Master Class is an intensive weekend seminar taught by some of the finest directors of photography in the world. Enrolling will enable you to hone your craft while making valuable professional connections that can jump-start your career. Designed for cinematography students with an intermediate-to-advanced skill set, the ASC Master Class incorporates...

In today’s industry, there’s no need to wait for someone else to greenlight your script. You can raise money, acquire investors, fund, finance, produce and distribute a film yourself. In this seminar, award-winning Indie producer Ramfis Myrthil will teach you the foundations of producing, as well as the do’s and don’ts that can determine your...

Steadicam® is now a commonly used tool within the film and television industry, however it requires training and practice in order to produce good results. More than just a stabilizer, as a shooting system it is able to provide an individual style to the production often greatly desired by producers and directors. Additionally, complex moving...