Delhi-based mass communication institute conducts workshop on digital filmmaking 

Digital filmmaking is gaining popularity as it is offering greater accessibility compared to the traditional way. Filmmakers are thereby leveraging digital techniques in shooting, editing and distribution of content, which is providing more creative freedom and flexibility. Moreover, advancements in camera technology and visual effects have elevated the quality of digital films, captivating audiences worldwide.

Thus to familiarise aspiring filmmakers with the art of digital filmmaking, Delhi-based Apeejay Institute of Mass Communication (AIMC) recently conducted an engaging workshop on the mentioned topic at Gokhale Memorial Girls’ College in Kolkata. 

The two-day workshop introduced the participants to creative and technical aspects of filmmaking through an exciting, fun-filled approach. Students were taken through the basics as the resource persons of the workshop went on to cover the multiple areas associated with the making of any film.

Prof. (Dr.) Pijush Dutta, Professor and Program Director at AIMC discussed the concept of a ‘Big Idea.’ He also communicated that wearing the audiences’ shoes is a strategy that effectively puts forth the message which the creator wants to convey. The simplified ones are those which connect with people the most.

Subsequently, Prof. Naveen Gautam, Associate Professor, AIMC conducted a  session on the thumb rules of filmmaking. The enriching session was taught through audio-visual clips, which held the attention of the students. He explained elements of a film and the different effects in a way, which was comprehensible for students from a non-filmmaking background. 

Prof. Ankit Kr. Malyan, Assistant Professor, AIMC shed light on DSLR Camera and its effectiveness, followed by demonstrating the use of a camera. He also showed the participants behind the scenes clips of films that they were familiar with, while also explaining the technique used to take the shot. He also mentioned, “The camera is an instrument that teaches students  how  to see without a camera.”

Participants were then divided into two teams to ideate on topics they could make a short film on. Both teams took up the issue of bullying, but chose to represent it differently. While one explored what consequence it can have, the other showed how timely intervention goes a long way. They brainstormed to give shape to their ideas, working on the script, the shots, and the message behind. 

A participant Amrita Choudhuri from Gokhale Memorial Girls’ College   shared, “This was an interactive workshop with engaging presentations involving famous punchlines helping us to understand the concept well. We also had a brainstorming session during which we came up with our own punchlines based on short films shown to us. This was a hands-on experience where we received an understanding of direction as well as acting performances, under the guidance of the resource persons. The editing process also provided us a chance to learn how it all comes together on screen. Thus, the two days were truly memorable.” 

The short films were also screened at the end of the workshop. 

Another participant Tulika Nag said, “Great workshop and very informative. This programme has been very helpful in providing me with self-interventions for my wandering mind as well as helping me be more creative. Learned so many new things from these. Thank you for a great workshop.” 

Participant Arti Mishra also highlighted, “Despite having a very short time we were able to shoot this video, which made an impact on the students. I am glad I was a part of this movie.”  

 Sharing how the Department of Communicative English is glad to have collaborated with AIMC on this endeavour, Prof. Sejuti Chowdhury, a faculty member mentioned, “It was a power-packed workshop bringing out both the best and the unknown in the students.” 

Another faculty Prof. Monami Ghosh said, “There couldn’t have been a better opportunity, particularly for our outgoing students, to orient themselves for potential career trajectories that many of them want to pursue. And there’s no better way than practical learning. While teaching mass media core courses, there’s a lot that I discuss in the classroom. This workshop sort of brings a lot together and gives finer touches to a lot of things we have taught and ignites the zeal in students to learn further.” 

She also added, “As it is said that cinema is truth, twenty-four seconds per time, there are many truths that I explore along with my students, whether in Genre Studies class or other courses I teach, or even outside the classroom our quest never ends nor do the questions, and for the very same students to come together for this process of first-hand and dynamic training, I can only be grateful. I take this opportunity to thank our three brilliant resource persons yet again – Pijush Sir, Naveen Sir and Ankit Sir. And, of course the director of AIMC, Sajal Sir and our Principal madam, Dr. Karpha.”