Unit Introduction.

This unit provides students with basic skills in the area of post production operations and gives them an understanding of post production technology, as well as a critical appreciation of the craft of editing.

Building on their knowledge of filmic language and narrative developed in the first level of the course, students learn about the fundamentals of screen continuity and timing. Students will be introduced to editing software, basic editing, compositing, special effects and audio functions.

The structure of this brief will be in three main sections.

· Film production and editing techniques - How we make the film, how we decide on certain shots, knowing our limitations within the actual hardware and filming methods that we use.

· 3D compositing techniques - Techniques used to mix live action with CG. Green screen? Purely 3D parts?

· Formatting requirements of Broadcast output - Correct format for audience? E.G TV = 25 FPS. Is it correctly encoded for optimum data rate? Minimal quality loss etc.

Through a series of lectures and workshops you will be introduced to the theoretical and practical interrelation of film production, editing, post production and visual effects;

In the first few weeks you will be encouraged to form groups and assemble from live action footage a short piece designed to be integrated with 3D elements. You will be introduced to essential editing techniques to structure your narrative and will be encouraged to identify suitable material to successfully present your 3D content.

In the middle section of the unit you will be introduced to the skills and techniques necessary to successfully integrate 3D content.

The last few weeks of the project will concentrate on developing your editing techniques as well as utilizing the effects available to you on your compositing software. You will also be introduced to industry workflow practices such as filing conventions and formatting requirements for broadcast content.

Assessment Criteria

A1: Understand the role of postproduction in the animation production process.

B1: Be able to analyze, evaluate and select component assets from a variety of sources.

C1: Understand and apply editing techniques and conventions to competently structure video narrative

D1: Perform basic editing, compositing, special effects and audio functions

E1: Have a thorough understanding of the file convention and formatting requirements of broadcast output.

• The finished piece demonstrates a thorough understanding of the role of postproduction in the animation production process. (A1)
• Demonstrates competency in basic editing, compositing, special effects and audio functions. (B1, D1)
• Demonstrates the competent use of editing techniques and conventions to structure the video narrative competently. (B1, C1)
• The finished piece demonstrates an understanding of the file convention and formatting requirements of broadcast output. (E1)

In short, all these aspects must be touched upon for the best possible outcome (if done well of course :P)

- Understand how lighting and colour affect the appearance and mood of an environment.
- Reflection upon, and analysis of, individual performance in a group context.
- Analysis and replication of a real environment of implementation of a designed environment using 3D visualization software.
- Build a computer generated environment, using modelling texturing, lighting and character interaction to a consistent visual aesthetic.
- Contribute successfully to a collaborative visual aesthetic.

Colour - Self explanatory. Why are the colours we're using there in the first place? What relevance do they have to the scene. What effects do they have on the environment, as well as the mood and atmosphere of the environment. How will colour help us to convey specific mood changes / atmospheric effects as well as how it could be used to indirectly link symbolism.

INDIVIDUAL CONTRIBUTION. MAKE SURE EVERYONE IS AWARE OF WHAT THEY CONTRIBUTE TOWARDS THE GROUP AS IT WILL CONTRIBUTE TOWARDS YOUR FINAL GRADE. BEING SAID, DO NOT TRY TO STEAL OR CLAIM SHARED IDEAS AS ONES OWN. THIS IS AN ASSESSMENT CRITERIA!

What is the purpose of light? Both literally and how it affects an environment / mood of a character / environment. How can we use light to correctly convey various viewpoints of the audience? How can we use light to portray a sense of isolation / suspense / power / beauty?

Implied animation? Needed? Used?