Classes
Chicago Filmmakers offers college-level classes in film and video production. For newcomers, we recommend starting with Digital Moviemaking for a broad overview of the production process, then taking classes in various disciplines that interest you. Persons with experience in filmmaking may further their training with specialized courses and workshops. In either case, you will find a quality education similar to those found at accredited schools and universities, but for a fraction of the time and cost. Plus, you can become part of a filmmaking community that can support and sustain you for many projects to come.
Please read our Class Registration Policies for more information.
This is our basic production course designed to cover key concepts and practices for making a film or video project. Topics include a thorough introduction to the professional DV camera, important aspects of lighting, sound, shot composition, camera movement, visual storytelling devices, working as a filmmaking crew, and editing. In-class demonstrations and exercises will allow students to work collaboratively on group projects as a digital cinema team. Prerequisite: Basic computer literacy.
10 weeks: June 3 - August 5 // Mondays 6:30-9:30 PM
Tuition: $595/580 members
Limit: 12 students
Instructor: Johnny Coughlin
Register online! Click here.
Here is where it all comes together. In this class students will integrate their knowledge of the filmmaking process to make their own independent project. Instruction will focus on production progress, development, scheduling, budget, casting, workflow, location permits, set protocol, rough cuts, and distribution. Students will be given access to equipment for shooting outside of class, and time to edit on Final Cut Pro X. Projects may be shot on video or film, and should be 2 - 10 minutes in length. Tape, film stock and lab expenses are not covered in the tuition. Prerequisite: Digital Moviemaking or consent of the organization.
10 Weeks: Thursdays, June 6 - August 15 from 6:30 - 9:30 PM
Tuition: $595/580 Members
Class Size: Maximum 12 students
Instructor: Stephen Cone
Click here to enroll!
This course will cover basic elements of directing and acting for the camera, including aesthetics, tone, text analysis, and controlling dramatic aspects of film through acting process. The relationship between the director and the actor will be emphasized: building effective communication, evaluating performance, and understanding the rehearsal process from both ends. Students will work in groups to audition and cast actors, rehearse and plan the execution of a scene with scripts, floor plans, and blocking; and shoot scenes for evaluation.
8 Weeks: Tuesdays, June 11 - July 30 from 6:30 - 9:30 PM
Tuition: $485/470 Members
Class Size: Maximum 12 students
Instructor: Stephen Cone
Click here to enroll!
Apple's digital nonlinear editing software has long been used by professional editors around the world. This course will provide students instruction on the complete process of digital editing on Final Cut Pro X, from logging footage to mastering onto DVD to uploading to the web. Topics covered include basic editing, transitions, titling, sound, filter usage, and an intro to editing aesthetics. Students may sign up for 10 hours of additional practice time outside of class during regular business hours to familiarize themselves with the system. No previous film/video editing experience is required. Prerequisite: Basic computer literacy.
5 weeks: June 19 - July 17 // Wednesdays, 6:30 – 9:30 PM
Tuition: $395/380 members
Limit: 6 students
Instructor: Mike Bohacz
It's time to roll up your sleeves: this clinic will provide the individual attention, mentorship and support needed to complete your feature film script. Students will present writing to the class for feedback and critique, and are expected to work on their script regularly outside of class. Discussions about developing character, plot and structure will help students effectively utilize story models for their own scripts. Students should already have a basic knowledge of the screenwriting format, the elements of structure, plot, action, and character, and have a screenplay underway in order to take the class.
8 weeks: July 8 - August 26 // Mondays, 6:30 - 9:30 PM
Tuition: $395/380 members
Limit: 5 students
Instructor: Paul Peditto
Register online! Click here.
Want to translate your idea into a feature film? This course covers the fundamentals of writing a feature-length screenplay and is designed for beginning students and writers. Through screenings, outside readings, discussion, and critiques, students will engage with such issues as character development, dialogue, structure, narrative progression, and what to do with a finished screenplay. Students should use this course as a springboard towards generating the first draft of a feature-length screenplay.
8 weeks: July 10 - August 28 // Wednesdays, 6:30-9:30pm
Tuition: $395/380 Members
Limit: 10 students
Instructor: Paul Peditto
Apple's digital nonlinear editing software has long been used by professional editors around the world. This course will provide students instruction on the complete process of digital editing on Final Cut Pro X, from logging footage to mastering onto DVD to uploading to the web. Topics covered include basic editing, transitions, titling, sound, filter usage, and an intro to editing aesthetics. Students may sign up for 10 hours of additional practice time outside of class during regular business hours to familiarize themselves with the system. No previous film/video editing experience is required. Prerequisite: Basic computer literacy.
5 weeks: July 31 - August 28 // Wednesdays, 6:30 – 9:30 PM
Tuition: $395/380 members
Limit: 6 students
Instructor: Mike Bohacz
Cick here to register!
This comprehensive, 2-week camp will cover all aspects of digital video production, from initial concept to finished movie. Students will learn about pre-production planning, storyboarding, cameras, lighting, sound, shot composition, and computer editing, and will work collaboratively on group projects. The camp closes with a public screening to showcase the work for friends and family, and each student receives a DVD copy of all projects completed in the workshop.
Ages 10 – 12 // Weekdays 10AM – 3PM // $450
Session 1: June 20 – July 3
Session 2: July 22 – August 2
Extended Care: Pre and post-camp care is available for our Moviemaking Camp Students during the hours of 9-10AM and 3-5PM for an additional fee of $10/hr
Registration now open!
Click here to enroll online for Session 1 (a comprehensive registration packet will be emailed to you upon payment)
Click here to enroll online for Session 2 (a comprehensive registrations packet will be emailed to you upon payment)
If you have any questions or would prefer to register over the phone, please call our office at 773.293.1447!
