Module and Programme Catalogue

Search site

Find information on

2023/24 Undergraduate Module Catalogue

LISS1023 Introduction to Special Effects in Filmmaking

10 creditsClass Size: 20

Module manager: John Edmonds
Email: icsjme@leeds.ac.uk

Taught: 1 Jul to 31 Aug View Timetable

Year running 2023/24

Pre-requisite qualifications

GPA of 2.5 (US) or equivalent and enrolled at a university

This module is not approved as a discovery module

Module summary

This module will give you an insight into how special effects are created and produced in films on a practical level. You will learn how to set up a digital camera, as well as frame and compose shots. You will then learn how to record video shots against a green screen in a Television studio. With your recorded material you will then be taught how to use professional special effects software to create some animated sequences using your photographs and video shots. As you progress through the module you will produce a series of animations to produce your own show reel of work. We will cover special effects used in films and TV shows for example Star Wars, Harry Potter and Dr Who to name a few. The module will include a field trip to a relevant location to investigate the special effects industry and future technologies.

Objectives

To provide a basic grounding in the language, conventions, techniques and practices of special effects production.
To provide students with an understanding of basic special effects production, using practical and computer based skills.

Learning outcomes
On completion of this module students will be able to demonstrate understanding of:
1. Basic grammar of shooting including shooting and lighting for green screen sequences.
2. The key stages of a project workflow including concept, development, planning and execution.
3. Basic requirements of filming including health & safety, copyright and permissions.
4. Basic animation techniques leading to intermediate 2D, 2.5D and 3D projects.


Syllabus

• Introduction to the module and digital camera setup and techniques
• TV Studio – Introduction to the Green Screen and various techniques
• Introduction to professional special effects software – Adobe After Effects
• Basic Animation techniques
• Intermediate Animation techniques + workshop

Teaching methods

Delivery typeNumberLength hoursStudent hours
On-line Learning115.0015.00
Visit110.0010.00
Fieldwork18.008.00
Seminar83.0024.00
Private study hours43.00
Total Contact hours57.00
Total hours (100hr per 10 credits)100.00

Private study

15 hours preparatory work before the module starts: Undertake the basic training tutorials at www.videocopilot.net/basic
43 hours private study during module: For example, this will include specified academic literature, videos, case studies, discussion questions

Opportunities for Formative Feedback

Daily individual and group based formative feedback during practical sessions via the practical portfolio.

Methods of assessment


Coursework
Assessment typeNotes% of formal assessment
Practical1 - 2 min Final Animation Project60.00
Portfolio3 x Basic animation tasks and 1 x Intermediate animation task40.00
Total percentage (Assessment Coursework)100.00

Normally resits will be assessed by the same methodology as the first attempt, unless otherwise stated

Reading list

The reading list is available from the Library website

Last updated: 26/01/2024 09:22:26

Disclaimer

Browse Other Catalogues

Errors, omissions, failed links etc should be notified to the Catalogue Team.PROD

© Copyright Leeds 2019