The Art of Camera Movement
A course by Merlin ShowalterSteadicam operator and cinematographer
A course by Merlin Showalter, Steadicam operator and cinematographer
Elevate your filmmaking skills with this camera movement course. Learn how to use the camera to create emotion and style in your shots, and develop your compositional techniques.
Explore the art of storytelling through the lens with Merlin Showalter, an experienced steadicam operator and cinematographer. In this online course, you'll delve into the fascinating world of cinematography and learn how to use composition techniques and camera movement to create visually engaging scenes that evoke an emotional response in viewers.
Merlin's passion for using a camera as a storytelling device will inspire you to see the immense power of cinematography. Through a carefully crafted curriculum, he will guide you in mastering the art of capturing compelling narratives with your camera. You'll discover the importance of orchestration in each take and develop your skills in framing, camera movement, and composition.
Throughout the course, Merlin will take you on a journey through the history of motion pictures, explore different settings for your equipment, and delve into lenses, filters, and camera rigs. You'll learn both basic and advanced techniques of camera movement, from analyzing scripts to developing shot lists. Additionally, you'll discover how to capture slow-motion shots and experiment with gimbal movements to add dynamic visuals to your storytelling.
What will you learn in this online course?
22 lessons & 19 downloads
A Brief History of Camera Movement
2 minutes, 27 seconds
Camera Selection and Settings 1
5 minutes, 56 seconds
Camera Selection and Settings 2
14 minutes, 17 seconds
Lenses and Filters
7 minutes, 10 seconds
Building a Camera Rig 1
14 minutes, 0 seconds
Basic Camera Movements
8 minutes, 30 seconds
More Axes of Freedom
8 minutes, 37 seconds
Setup: Center Coverage, Whole Scene
20 minutes, 57 seconds
Setup: Left Side Coverage, 1st Half
20 minutes, 13 seconds
What's included in this course?
To start, you'll dive into the captivating history of motion pictures, gaining insights into the evolution of cinematic techniques. Next, you'll explore various settings for your equipment, ensuring you capture the perfect shots in different environments. You'll then discover the role of lenses and filters in adding depth and character to your visuals.
As the course progresses, Merlin will guide you through building your camera rig and introduce you to both basic and more complex camera movements. You'll learn how to analyze scripts, frame shots to convey emotion, and choose the right tools for each composition. Developing shot lists will become second nature to you, allowing you to plan your sequences effectively.
Continuing the journey, you'll explore different perspectives and angles for capturing scenes, expanding your repertoire of visual storytelling. Merlin will also demonstrate techniques for capturing slow-motion shots and utilizing gimbal movements to add a touch of cinematic flair to your work. Finally, you'll gain insights into the finishing touches and examine the finished piece, bringing your storytelling skills to their fullest potential.
Throughout the course, you'll receive valuable tips, tricks, and guidance from Merlin, helping you develop a deep understanding of cinematic language and its applications in visual storytelling. By honing your composition techniques and mastering camera movements, you'll be able to create captivating narratives that leave a lasting impact on your audience.
Recommended software & tools for this course
What is this course's project?
In the final project of this course, you'll have the opportunity to showcase your skills and creativity by filming a short scene. By combining different angles, framing techniques, and camera movements, you'll weave together a compelling narrative that captivates and resonates with viewers. Let your imagination run wild as you bring your ideas to life through the lens, and create a memorable piece that reflects your unique storytelling style.
Who is this online course for?
This course is ideal for aspiring filmmakers, camera operators, writers, directors, and even social media managers looking to enhance their visual storytelling skills. Whether you're a beginner or have some experience in the field, Merlin Showalter will provide you with the knowledge and techniques to take your cinematography skills to the next level. Additionally, still photographers who want to expand their skillset into the realm of moving images will find this course invaluable. Join us on this creative journey and unlock your potential as a visual storyteller.
Requirements and materials
To embark on this enriching cinematography journey, you'll need a basic understanding of photography and access to a video camera. Merlin Showalter will guide you through the rest, helping you develop your skills and unleash your creativity. So, grab your camera, bring your passion for storytelling, and get ready to elevate your visual narratives to new heights.
Reviews
- 2 months ago
Maravilloso curso recomendado.
- 2 months ago
Amazing course, The thaching is straight foward and easy to follow and recreate
- 4 months ago
It was really helpful thanks
- njgomez182PLUS6 months ago
Recomendado
- javosanvalPLUS10 months ago
Hacia videos para redes sociales pero sin guia, este curso me dio algunas herramientas y tips para mejorar los reels
His vast experience in the industry has led him to work on a wide range of projects, from commercials and feature films to music videos. With every endeavor, Merlin embraces the unique challenges that come his way, solving them with his problem-solving skills and boundless creativity.
Constantly seeking to improve and evolve, Merlin invests in his education by watching courses and reading texts on cinematography. He stays up to date with the latest technology and techniques, ensuring that his work remains innovative and cutting-edge. With his passion for using the camera as a storytelling device, Merlin is dedicated to helping aspiring filmmakers and visual storytellers unleash their creative potential.
Content
- U1
Introduction
- About Me
- Influences
- U2
Camera Movement
- A Brief History of Camera Movement
- Camera Selection and Settings 1
- Camera Selection and Settings 2
- Lenses and Filters
- Building a Camera Rig 1
- Building a Camera Rig 2
- Basic Camera Movements
- More Axes of Freedom
- U3
Preparing the Project
- Dissecting the Script
- Composition and Shooting for the Edit
- Choosing the Right Tools for the Shot
- Creating the Shot List
- U4
Production: First Steps
- Setup: Center Coverage, Whole Scene
- Setup: Left Side Coverage, 1st Half
- Setup: Right Side Coverage, 1st Half
- U5
Production: Last Details
- Setup: Right Side, 2nd Half
- Setup: Left Side Coverage, 2nd Half
- Setup: Specialty Shots, Slow-motion, and Gimbal
- Edited Scene 1
- Edited Scene 2
- FP
Final project
- Intro to Steadicam and cinematography
What to expect from a Domestika course
Learn at your own pace
Enjoy learning from home without a set schedule and with an easy-to-follow method. You set your own pace.
Learn from the best professionals
Learn valuable methods and techniques explained by top experts in the creative sector.
Meet expert teachers
Each expert teaches what they do best, with clear guidelines, true passion, and professional insight in every lesson.
Certificates
PLUSIf you're a Plus member, get a custom certificate signed by your teacher for every course. Share it on your portfolio, social media, or wherever you like.
Get front-row seats
Videos of the highest quality, so you don't miss a single detail. With unlimited access, you can watch them as many times as you need to perfect your technique.
Share knowledge and ideas
Ask questions, request feedback, or offer solutions. Share your learning experience with other students in the community who are as passionate about creativity as you are.
Connect with a global creative community
The community is home to millions of people from around the world who are curious and passionate about exploring and expressing their creativity.
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FAQs
Yes, this course is designed for intermediate filmmakers who have some experience with cameras and basic filmmaking concepts, and want to advance their skills in camera movement, composition, and technical filmmaking techniques.
You will need access to a digital video camera (such as a DSLR, mirrorless, or Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera) and basic accessories like tripods, lenses, and, if possible, gimbals or stabilizers for hands-on practice.
You’ll learn how to analyze scripts for shot planning, use camera movement to enhance storytelling, compose cinematic images, design and balance camera rigs, and apply professional techniques for music videos, narrative scenes, and online video content.
Yes, the course includes detailed lessons on building, balancing, and accessorizing camera rigs for stability, efficiency, and creative flexibility during shoots.
Absolutely. The course breaks down workflows and creative techniques for shooting, directing, and editing music videos, including shot selection, camera movement, and post-production tips.
You’ll learn adaptable shooting strategies, efficient camera setups, and editing techniques tailored for YouTube and online video production, ensuring professional quality and engaging visual storytelling.
Yes, practical modules cover the use of brushless gimbals, Steadicams, camera dollies, and handheld rigs, comparing their advantages for creating smooth tracking shots and dynamic movement.