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Julian Melanson

Do you want your videos to be better looking, sounding, creative, shareable, engaging, and impressive to watch?

Are you wanting to get the most out of shooting on your smartphone, DSLR, or mirrorless camera?

Read more

Do you want your videos to be better looking, sounding, creative, shareable, engaging, and impressive to watch?

Are you wanting to get the most out of shooting on your smartphone, DSLR, or mirrorless camera?

Perfect. You've made it to the right video production course.

By the end of this course, you'll have the skillset and film school level understanding of:

1. First Hand Film Set Experience

To begin, you'll join me on the set of a high end client shoot to see a behind the scenes look at how the video production process really works. These lessons are packed with key filmmaking fundamentals and concepts for the rest of the course material to build on top of.

•    Set up and choose the best way to shoot your specific video

•    Main steps to film a cooler looking and cinematic project

•    Cinematography and composition fundamentals

•    Techniques to maximize your location and time while shooting

•    Creatively use your lenses, surrounding, and camera

2. Get the Most Out of Your Camera Settings

Getting great looking shots first starts with getting your camera set up properly. Here, you'll get crystal clear on how to set your camera's functions, settings, and parameters. These foundational learning lessons will give you the confidence to get out and start shooting.

•   Learn how to effectively use all of the functions and settings on your camera

•   Get the perfect exposure with ISO, shutter speed, and aperture

•   Create a great looking image with white balance and frame rate

•   Use picture profile and focal length for your specific shooting style

•   Utilize your camera's latitude and dynamic range

3. Light and Shoot Your Scenes Like a Pro

Now that you have a rock solid understanding of your camera, here's where we'll use lighting and video production techniques to make your videos shine. These hands-on lessons will give you the tools to create stunning looking images using natural or artificial lighting.

•   Use colored gels, practicals, exposure contrast, your outfit and location choice like a pro 

•   Make yourself look great on-camera with the right lens choice and proper lighting

•   Learn the most essential framing, cinematography, and composition techniques

•   Get that "cinematic filmmaking look" for your own personal video setup

•   2 point, 3 point, rim light, natural light, high key and low key lighting

4. Record Crystal Clear Sounding Audio

You've worked alongside me to massively upgrade and improve all things visual, now it's time to talk audio. In this section, we dive into different microphone types, recording environments, audio hacks, and getting the absolute best sounding audio quality possible.

•   Set your shoot up for crystal clear sounding audio and great sound dynamics

•   Learn how top filmmakers get rid of echoes, buzzing, distortions, pops, and hums

•   DIY set up to get great sounding vocals for your videos or podcasts at home

•   Top audio recording techniques for video creators and filmmakers

•   Audio hacks and which mics to use for different filming situations

5. Create Next Level Vids with B-roll and Cutaway Shots

In this step, you're going to walk away with advanced techniques that experienced video creators use to create exciting and engaging videos. This process will allow you to utilize more advanced film techniques in a way that is fun and easy to use regardless of skill level.

•   Film a more professional looking video using shot types different cinematography techniques

•   Effectively use coverage to set yourself up for success in the editing process

•   Get a filmmaker understanding of the purpose and use of each shot type

•   Create a more dynamic final product with framing and multiple angles

•   How to use the 180 degree rule, rule of thirds, and frame balancing

6. Get That Cinematic Look with Camera Movement

This is one of my favorite parts of the course, creating cinematic shots with camera movement. There's a reason why it's called "motion picture." Here we take a deep dive into how, when, and why to use different movements to create cinematic looking videos.

•   Learn the ideal focal length, movement, frame rate, and composition choices for your project

•   Get incredible looking and feeling shots using top video production techniques

•   Use the same types of camera movement that you see in feature films

•   Learn how movement direction, quality, and speed effect your audience

•   Bring an overall filmmaking look and style to your videos

7. Make Your Shot List and Film Your Epic Montage

Once you learn these shot list techniques, you won't go back to shooting important projects without one (trust me). In this hands-on section, you're going to envision, outline, and shoot the type of montage that turns an ordinary project into an extraordinary project.

•  Synthesize all the video production techniques learned into your final course video project

•  Step by step guide to knocking out your list of specific shots in the best way possible

•  In-camera transitions, filmmaking tricks, and how to make an impactful ending shot

•  Essentials to create an organized and practical shot list for all future projects

•  Cinematography tips and tricks to make your videos stand out

8. Expert Guest Speakers and Video Production Keys to Success

Here you sit down with me and 3 expert guest speakers that have spent years working as successful full-time filmmakers. These lessons will give you the insights, actionable takeaways, and inspiration that will add some extra creative fuel to the skills you've gained in this course.

•  Bonus tools and ways to continue getting better shots after graduating this course

•  Top pro's and con's of today's most frequently used camera equipment

•  Lens choice, equipment, and tips for properly choosing your video gear

•  How to continue to make the most out of your skillset and equipment

•  Motivation, progress, growth, and success as a video creator

9. Course Bonuses and Progressing Beyond this Course

You've made it. We worked together to build your skillset through each section and then in the last step, we combined the whole process into your very own crystal clear looking and sounding final product. Now it's time for you to go out their and continue to create videos you love.

•  Synthesize, recap, and review all of the lessons learned in the course

•  Integrate the tools and know how to continue to improve and grow

•  Accept my course challenge to start your new series or project

•  Special student bonuses for completing the course

•  And much more

My biggest goal for you:

The goal of this course is to give you all the knowledge and techniques that I've gained from 10+ years in the film industry (working with clients like Red Bull, Taco Bell, and Discovery Channel) in a way that is fun to learn and easy to understand.

Shooting better videos no matter what:

Whether you're shooting Instagram videos, YouTube videos, short films, music videos, documentaries, videos for professional clients, personal projects, on a smartphone or camera... The actionable takeaways from this course will benefit you regardless of your equipment or budget.

You'll have lifetime access to:

•   85 Individual video lessons

•   6 Hours of learning content

•   8 Downloadable resources

•   6 Detailed case studies

•   4 Bonus video lectures

•   3 Course Articles

•   12 Hands-on lessons

•   10 Interactive exercises

•   3 Expert guest speakers

•   40 Gigabytes of streamable content

•   Updates to all future course materials

•   One on one with me in the Q&A section

If you want to learn the tools to shoot videos that you're proud of, this is the course for you.

I'll see you inside.

Julian

Enroll now

What's inside

Learning objectives

  • You will have a step-by-step process to shoot excellent looking and sounding videos!
  • Gain a film school level understanding of how to shotlist, light, frame, shoot, and capture crystal clear audio!
  • Get the confidence needed to film social media content, client projects, or personal projects from the ground up!
  • Expand your creativity, production quality, cinematography, and passion as a video creator!
  • Understand key video principles that you can use in all of your future projects!
  • Hands-on exercises to improve your skillset and gain real life video creating experience!
  • Tell stories in your videos that you are proud wether you're shooting on a camera or smartphone!
  • Learn the techniques that make people share, like, comment, and engage with your video content!

Syllabus

Introduction
Meet Your Teacher
Learning Exercise: Video Lighting and Shooting 101
Share What Your Videography Goals and Aspirations Are!
Read more
Dive right into the filmmaking process while on set with my filmmaker friend for a high end client project!
On Set: Videography Setup and Choosing How to Shoot with Your DSLR or Camera
On Set: Camera Movement and Essential Cinematography Techniques
On Set: Camera Lens Choice, Composition, and Framing
On Set: Make Better Video Edits with These Videography Techniques
Overview of the Filmmaking and Video Production Techniques we Learned on Set
Get the Most Out of Your Smartphone
Videography Pro’s and Con’s of GoPro/Action Cameras
Hack for Great Looking DSLR and Mirrorless Footage
Learning Exercise: Film Your Practice Shot with Upgraded Videography Techniques
Get the most out of your camera with the best settings possible!
Get The Most Out of Your Video Settings Overview
Tips For Smartphone Shooters
Camera Settings
Nail Your DSLR and Camera Exposure and ISO Levels
Shutter Speed Fundamentals for DSLR and Other Cameras
Hands On: Shutter Speed In-Depth
Synthesizing Your Framerate, ISO, and Shutterspeed Settings
Video Quiz: Your Camera Latitude and Dynamic Range
Hands On: Picture Profile and My Personal Favorite Settings
Use The Correct White Balance Settings
Dive deeper into the most important functions and settings when shooting!
Case Study: Aperture Essentials
Case Study: Understand Focal Length
Case Study: Key Differences of Frame Rates
Camera Settings Activity Introduction
Learning Exercise: ISO and White Balance
Learning Exercise: Using Focal Length to Enhance Your Shot
Learning Exercise: Using Depth of Field to Create a More Cinematic Image
Film your talking scene for Youtube and Instagram etc. with studio lighting!
Hands On: Video Production Set Up and Camera Settings with Studio Lighting
Hands On: Rule of Thirds, Composition, and Focal Length with Studio Lighting
Hands On: High Key, Low Key, and Rim Lighting in a Studio
Hands On: Upgrade Your Video Production Level with "Practicals" in a Studio
Hands On: Effect of Color Gels on Your Studio Lighting
Film your talking scene for Youtube and Instagram etc. with natural light!
Hands On: Choose Your Video Production Set Using Natural Light
Hands On: Initial Set Up and Camera Specifics Using Natural Light
Hands On: Optimize Your Background and Aperture with Natural Light
Hands On: Proper Framing, Focal Length, and Distance with Natural Light
Filmmaking Summary of Studio and Natural Light Setups
Learning Exercise: Film Your Talking Scene with New Videography Techniques
Learn more about cinematography from this detailed breakdown and sit down discussion with a full-time filmmaker
Introduction to Discussion with a Professional Filmmaker
Case Study: Breakdown of Cinematic iPhone Filmmaking Project with Hunter
Case Study: Create Videos that are Shareable and Unique with Hunter
Video Production Equipment I Recommend
You've Made it This Far! Here's What's Coming Next
Learn the steps to always record excellent sounding audio for your videos!
Audio Production: Main Types of Microphones
Walkthrough: Audio Production and Sound Dynamics in your Environment
How To: DIY for Capturing the Best Sound
Audio Production: 3 Ways to Remove Noise Makers from Your Shoot
Hands On: Auto vs. Manual Audio Settings
Behind the Scenes: Explanation of my DIY Setup
Demonstration: Create a Great Voiceover (Lavalier vs. Shotgun Mic)
Audio Production: Smartphone Audio Hack
Learning Exercise: Record Your Crystal Clear Audio
Here we're going to take things to the next level by adding b-roll and cutaway shots!
Videography: Review and Improve Your DSLR and Camera Footage
Videography: Essentials of B-roll and Video Coverage
Videography: Importance of Using Multiple Shot Types
Videography: Shot Types and Framing In-Depth
Additional Learning: Framing Analysis and Shooting with Multiple Cameras
Additional Learning: The 180 Degree Rule and Frame Balancing
Videography: Using Cutaways and Shot Types Recap
Here we dive into moving the camera and creating an epic montage from beginning to end!
Cinematography: Main Types of Camera Movement
Cinematography: In-Depth Analysis of Camera Movement
Cinematography: How Speed of Camera Movement Effects Your Video Production
Cinematography: Synthesizing Your Filmmaking and Camera Techniques Introduction
Hands On: Shoot Your Montage with Upgraded Filmmaking and Videography Techniques
Learning Exercise: Create Your Own Awesome Montage
Take the cinematography a step further by implementing these more advanced film techniques!
Introduction to Shot List Essentials as a Videographer
Learning Exercise: Create Your Shot List
Optimize Your DSLR and Camera Settings to Shoot Your Montage
Hands On: Main Cinematography Techniques to Film What's on Your Shot List
Hands On: Camera Movement and Enhancing Your Montage
Hands On: In-Camera Transitions and Create an Impactful Ending Shot
Learning Exercise: Shoot Your Epic B-roll
Learn all things equipment with an experienced full-time filmmaker and photographer!
Intro to Learning Session with a Pro Photographer and Video Creator
Advice from an Expert: Entry Level Videography Equipment with Luis
Advice from an Expert: Pro's and Con's of Different Types of Gear with Luis
Advice from an Expert: Camera Lens Specifics, Choices, and Advice with Luis
Advice from an Expert: Motivation, Progress, and Success as a Video Creator
Synthesize all of the important techniques from this course, take it out into the world, and create a new series or video that you are proud of!
Course Recap and My Creative Challenge for You
Extra Lesson Bonus: Shoot Better Looking Laptop Videos
Extra Lesson Advice: Introduction and Camera Talk with Vlatz
Extra Lesson Advice: Equipment vs. Skill and Maximizing What You Have with Vlatz
Extra Lesson Advice: Videography Progress and Giving it Your All with Vlatz
Congratulations: Gift for Completing This Filmmaking Course
Bonus: Special Discount Links for More Videography and Filmmaking Courses

Good to know

Know what's good
, what to watch for
, and possible dealbreakers
Foundations of video production are addressed in detail
Fits nicely with the interests of people who are new to video creation
Be sure you have a DSLR or mirrorless camera for certain aspects of the course
Focuses on helping students increase their creativity
Provides guidance on improving lighting, camera angles, and audio quality
Builds a strong base for creating videos using various shots and editing techniques

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Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Cinematography Masterclass: The Complete Videography Guide with these activities:
Watch tutorials on YouTube and Vimeo
Julian has already picked out some videos to help you learn filmmaking. Take some time to watch them.
Show steps
  • Search for tutorials on YouTube and Vimeo.
  • Watch the tutorials.
  • Practice the techniques you learn.
Film a short video using a smartphone or camera
This course will introduce you to cinema theory, techniques, and how to wield a camera. What better way to practice these techniques than by immediately putting them to use.
Show steps
  • Choose a topic for your video.
  • Write a short script.
  • Gather your equipment.
  • Film your video.
  • Edit your video.
  • Share your video with the world.
Contribute to an open-source filmmaking project
Contribute to the filmmaking community by helping to develop an open-source filmmaking project.
Browse courses on Camera Basics
Show steps
  • Find an open-source filmmaking project that you are interested in.
  • Contact the project's creators and express your interest in contributing.
  • Start contributing to the project.
Show all three activities

Career center

Learners who complete Cinematography Masterclass: The Complete Videography Guide will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Film School Instructor
For professionals in the television and film industry who want to teach the next generation of filmmakers, this course provides a modern, industry-standard film school education. Instructors may teach concepts like lighting, cinematography, camera operation, audio recording, and editing. Film School Instructors may also teach theory and history. This course will be useful for experienced professionals looking to teach for the first time, as well as existing instructors who wish to enhance their curriculum.
Filmmaker
Filmmakers use the skills this course teaches to create literal demonstrations of their creativity. They develop the skills necessary to produce moving picture content, for commercial, documentary, educational, and entertainment purposes. Filmmakers also work in the television, online, and commercial video industries.
Producer
Producers manage and oversee the film production process, from writing and directing to editing and marketing the project. They are in charge of every aspect of film production and ensure that the project is completed on time, within budget, and to the highest possible quality. Producers also manage the crew and cast, which may include actors, directors, writers, camera operators, sound technicians, and special effects teams.
Director
Directors are responsible for translating a script into a visual and auditory experience. They oversee every aspect of the filmmaking process, from casting and rehearsals to editing and post-production. Directors also work closely with the cinematographer, production designer, and actors to ensure that their vision for the film is realized. Directors may find this course to be helpful because it provides immediate practical exercises that can be used on their own production sets.
Cinematographer
Cinematographers are responsible for the visual look and feel of a film. They choose the camera, film, and lenses, and control the lighting, framing, and composition of each shot. Cinematographers work closely with the director to ensure that the film's visual style matches the director's vision. This course's deep dive into lighting, cinematography, camera movement, and shot composition may prove useful to cinematographers in honing their skills.
Production Manager
Production managers plan, organize, and manage film and television productions. They are responsible for creating and managing the production schedule, budget, and crew. Production managers also negotiate with vendors and locations, and ensure that all aspects of the production run smoothly. This course can be helpful as it provides an inside look at on-set procedure.
Audio Engineer
Audio engineers are responsible for the sound design, recording, and mixing of audio for film, television, and other media. They work closely with the cinematographer and the director to ensure that the film's sound matches the visual style and the director's vision. Some audio engineers may find this course to be useful due to its focus on audio in the video production process.
Video Editor
Video editors cut and assemble footage to create a cohesive and visually appealing story. They work closely with the director to ensure that the edit matches the director's vision for the film. Video editors may also be responsible for adding sound effects, music, and graphics to the film. Video Editors may find this course useful for learning camera techniques taught by professional filmmakers.
Photographer
Photographers use some of the same skills as Filmmakers, including the ability to compose a shot and use lighting to create a desired effect. Photographers may find this course to be useful for supplementing their existing skills with an introduction to filmmaking.
Visual Effects Artist
Visual effects artists create digital effects for film, television, and other media. They use computer software to create realistic-looking effects, such as explosions, car chases, and flying characters. Visual Effects Artists may find this course to be helpful as it can help them develop an understanding of cinematography and filmmaking techniques that will support their visual effects work.
Motion Graphics Artist
Motion graphics artists create animated graphics for film, television, and other media. They use computer software to create dynamic and visually appealing graphics, such as title sequences, lower thirds, and animated logos. Motion Graphics Artists may find this course to be useful due to its emphasis on visual composition and motion.
Screenwriter
Screenwriters write the scripts for film, television, and other media. They create the story, characters, and dialogue for the film. Screenwriters work closely with the director and the producer to ensure that the script matches the director's vision for the film. Screenwriters may find this course to be useful for learning more about the filmmaking process and for developing their visual storytelling skills.
Actor
Actors bring the characters in a script to life. They use their acting skills to create believable and memorable performances. Actors work closely with the director and the other actors to ensure that the film's performances are cohesive and believable. Actors may find this course to be useful for learning more about the filmmaking process and for developing their on-screen presence.
Media Producer
Media producers are responsible for the production of media content, such as film, television, and online video. They oversee the entire production process, from development to distribution. Media producers may find this course to be useful for gaining a comprehensive understanding of the filmmaking process.
Video Journalist
Video journalists use video to report the news. They gather footage, write scripts, and edit video to create news stories for television, online, and other media. Video Journalists may find this course to be useful for developing their video production skills and for learning more about the filmmaking process.

Reading list

We've selected eight books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Cinematography Masterclass: The Complete Videography Guide.
This master class from renowned filmmaker David Lynch offers unique insights into the filmmaking process, providing invaluable guidance for aspiring filmmakers.
This practical guide focuses on the art of lighting for film and video, helping students understand how to use lighting to enhance the visual impact of their productions.
This comprehensive guide to audio production for film and video covers everything from recording and mixing to sound design and post-production, making it an essential resource for filmmakers of all levels.
This comprehensive textbook provides a detailed overview of the entire film production process, from development to distribution, making it a valuable resource for students and aspiring filmmakers.
While this book focuses on storytelling techniques, it provides valuable insights into the structure and pacing of successful films and TV shows, making it a useful reference for filmmakers.
This collection of essays provides a solid introduction to film theory and criticism, helping students to develop a critical understanding of the medium.

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