Post Production and VFX

This module is intended to provide a historical framework into which students can place their practice particularly in relation to how the camera can influence and have significant influence in post-production and the creation of VFX. Through a series of workshops students will gain valuable hands on experience of the

• Basic Features of the camera – aperture, iris, shutter speed, WB and HD codecs
• Composition & Framing – interpretation, controlling the viewer’s eye
• Use of depth of field and focus, focusing decisions, using the right aperture
• Camera work – principles and practices, designing shots and the application of HDR (High Dynamic Range)
• Exposure control – shutter, aperture, ND, light and the application of the Zone System to influence exposure
• Introduction to lighting on location – colour temperatures, principles key, back and Fill – working with/without lighting.

The syllabus will explore classical, current and future workflows for visual effects production in film and television. This will involve a critical and reflective analysis of past and current workflows developing insight into how trends and technologies will shape the future of VFX production. They will consider the following:

• Conceptualisation and design development
• Planning, organisation creative application of technology
• VFX and compositing practices and techniques
• Workflow management
• Integration of new technologies

On this module you will learning Maya (professional standard software) and principles of 3D modelling.

The syllabus will explore current workflows for post-production and VFX in contemporary film and television. With an emphasis on the diverse components and aspects of contemporary post production and VFX workflows the module will explore the relationship and inter connectivity of these components and how they are utilised to produce and attain specific goals and objectives within the context of story development. The module will analyse a range of production workflows and provide a context for students to develop a story-based project that incorporates such elements as story/plot structure, narrative themes, character development, pre-visualisation and production management. Building on the ideas of creating creative storylines the module will develop and build workflows and development portfolios that are based around collaborative working practices from storyboard development through pre visualisation to first rough cut edit. In addition, the syllabus will explore past, current and future technologies for post-production and VFX and how surrounding technological developments have impacted workflows and collaborations and will continue to influence future workflows.

The module offers and introductory study of the following aspects of creative editing

• Development and enhancement in the use and selection of a non-linear editing system appropriate for short form editing within the context of defined criteria such as studio production and sports events
• Students are introduced to the short-form production as a contributor to contemporary wed based and online productions, considering its form and function and are introduced to the associative practices of editing in relation to fast turn-around and output
• Develop and engage with a range of industry practices that demonstrate the importance of the creative selection of suitable footage, the organisation of shots and their impact on the presentation of the final programme within specified technical guidelines relevant to distribution on online platforms.
• Introduce and develop skills and practices in the organisation, selection and editing of material within the context of a contemporary media workflow relating to the production of short form production
• Students will undertake independent study to support a programme of practical exercises designed to develop their skills and understanding of the conventions and practices of short form editing

The module is a follow on from level 4 editing modules and includes the following

• Development and enhancement in the use and selection of a non-linear editing systems appropriate for the use of long form editing for drama and documentary production
• Students are introduced to the long form production as a contributor to contemporary media productions and to consider its form, function and conventions and its contribution to screen grammar for documentary and drama production
• Develop and engage with a range of industry practices that demonstrate the importance of the creative selection of suitable footage, the organisation of shots to order, and their impact on the presentation of the final programme.
• Enhance and expand skills and practices in the organisation, selection and editing of material within the context of a contemporary media workflow relating to the production of long form production
• Students will undertake independent study to support a programme of practical exercises designed to develop their skills in this area and develop discussion and debate designed to extend their critical appreciation of long form editing in relation to the genres of documentary and drama.
• Enhanced and more detailed study of the application of colour and grading to achieve specific ‘looks’

This module will look at genre and different aspects of film and broadcast.

This module will develop your ability with 3D models, rendering, and motion.

The module will cover compositing 3D rendered elements, and 2D motion graphics.

This module will bring together the different areas used to complete projects and make them ready for release.

The module offers students opportunities to work in teams to develop techniques and creative practices that expand and broaden their skills within the context of building and designing media workflows within the context of an industry brief. Students will have opportunities to work collaboratively with other courses, modules and professional media services to expand and consolidate their practice and theoretical knowledge within the context of an industry related brief. These opportunities may include working with students from other course such as the BA Animation, Film Production, Film Production and Television and Radio which has the potential for students to gain skills within a wider range of media disciplines. This has the opportunity for students to enhance and compliment their skills in subject areas such as storyboard design, character development, production management and advanced camera practices.

Students work to develop ideas and proposals for projects/briefs that will include background research, proposal and treatment. Work and assessment will continue in the form of development of the project through written work, scripts, storyboards and include also production planning. Through a process of planning and workflow design, students will develop ideas with consideration for the target audiences, client needs and the appropriate deliverables for the project and the client. In addition, this module provides an opportunity for students to develop an awareness of professional working practices, including a basic understanding of the various forms of intellectual property rights (copyright, patent, and trademark) within the fields of Post production and VFX.

The syllabus will be determined by the student-led independent research and analysis underlying a self-directed project within the context of Post Production and/or VFX. The research and practice will be supported by regular feedback and critique sessions from supervisors with specialist knowledge in the relevant domains of practice and research that the students have chosen.

• The syllabus of the programme will be delivered in the following stages
• Delivery of either initial research aims and objectives (i.e. rough draft) or high quality prototype;
• Presentation of a project idea and a workflow appropriate for the project.
• Self-directed negotiated programme of studies
• Synthesis of design ideas and production process
• Production of a creative artefact with a managed and agreed timeframe
• Presentation of additional, appropriate supporting documentation

This is a module that helps you get ready for entering the industry, from applying for jobs, CV writing, showreel editing, creating an on-line presence for yourself, and going through the process of a mock interview.

This module will allow you to build on and refine your abilities as an editor. 

This module gives you the opportunity to produce VFX work to showcase your abilities.

A self-generated project that you explore throughout the final semester of the course work that allows you to explore your personal interests and showcase your strengths in what you have learned throughout the course.

A full semester project that allows you to explore at an advanced level the theoretical aspects of post-production. Aimed at students who wish to prepare themselves for postgraduate study (Master’s & PhD), or who wish to work more independently or simply have time to study an aspect of what you have learned at greater depth.