Courses,
Training &
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If you want a really intensive introduction to all the fundamentals of documentary editing and Final Cut Pro software then we recommend the five full days of our Final Cut Pro Editing Week to get you up to speed and familiar with broadcast standards.

Each participant will have their own Mac work station to ensure maximum hands on practice. LCD projection facilities also aid the learning process and guarantee clear and effective demonstrations so participants will leave with a confident grasp of the practical fundamentals of editing on FCP.

You'll be guided through essential elements of Final Cut Pro including:
    •    non-linear systems
    •    hardware
    •    interface
    •    deck control
    •    capturing and digitizing
    •    working on timeline
    •    working with audio basic effects
    •    printing to tape
Preparing to edit your film is an overlooked area. This element of the week focuses on how to log and organise your rushes and tapes, and effective methods of pre-selecting footage. You will also learn the advantages of undertaking a paper edit. The practical training offers advice and tips on how to work independently and with an editor, the best way to view rushes, creating and editing the script.

Whether working independently or with an editor you'll also have to think about other important tasks such as writing the commentary, finding the music, effects, animation, stock footage and archive material.

The grammar of documentary editing demonstrates the power of editing and how the story is fundamentally constructed in the cutting room, and not on the shoot.

Through detailed analysis of film clips, participants will examine the grammar of documentary editing across several genres and editorial decisions made. There will be a principal focus on the language of observational filmmaking.  Topics also covered include: structure and creating a narrative thread; how to create a sequence, scene and rhythm; building layers of sound/ music/ voice-over; how to use cut-aways and reaction shots.

LCD projection facilities will aid the learning process and guarantee clear and effective demonstrations.

Participants will end the week having edited a finished sequence to broadcast standards. You are welcome to bring along your own material if desired or footage can be provided by DFG.

‘Such an intensive amount of learning and information. The tutor was really generous with his knowledge and we covered topics way beyond what I expected to. The course gave me confidence in my existing skills as well as really helping me to develop new skills which will enhance my editing from now on. Fabulous! And the DFG girls were so helpful and wonderful.’

FCP Editing Participant, April 2010