Making a Documentary: how to Research, Write, Design the Process and Make a Low Cost Documentary

— Methodology — This course is designed for all levels, from beginners wanting to start their first project to professionals looking to refine their creative vision. — Learning Philosophy — I believe that learning is a dialogue. My approach is flexible and adapts to your needs: field case studies, participatory guidance during creation, and targeted training on specific aspects. Sessions are scheduled according to your needs and constraints, ideally every two weeks to maintain a good rhythm. — First Meeting — During our first meeting, we will define the framework, method, tools, and objectives of the training together. — Topics Covered — Preparation • Defining the specifications, objectives, and intentions • Concept development • Research • Pre-existing similar projects • Narrative/visual aesthetics, inspirations • Directing concepts: the director’s responsibilities • Production concepts: the producer’s responsibilities Scriptwriting/Outline • Formatting • Structure • Dialogues • Effective formulas Budgeting • Breakdown Preproduction • Theoretical concepts: the hierarchy of a production • Responsibilities of a production manager and assistant director • Artistic direction • Storyboarding and image grammar • Scouting (technical) • Material preparation, rental management • Workflow • Rehearsals Shooting • Sound recording • Mastering the camera and viewpoint • Visual storytelling • Using light to influence emotions • Building a cinematic image • Directing actors Postproduction • Editing: techniques and grammar • Sound design: sound effects, audio narration • Interaction with a music composer • Color grading: the power of image treatment and visual aesthetics • Introduction to special effects with After Effects

Creative Writing is a subject for those with imagination, talent, and a passion for literature, film and television, poetry and so much more. Whichever pathway you wish to discover, this class will give you the necessary skills to develop and explore different styles of writing, giving you an example of industry-standard work. This class can help you work towards English Language/Literature/Creative Writing qualifications at many different levels, hopefully inspiring you to pursue a university education or career in this field. However, if you simply wish to explore your talent in fiction writing, I can provide insight into the industry and university level education of this subject.

Each learning plan is adapted and tailored for each students specific strengths, desired goals and admissions criteria of school or college. Where needed creative careers advice can be given that is reverse engineered from industry fields and trends to match individual students. Young people get help to develop a strong body of work in form of a digital or physical creative portfolio, either from scratch or with existing artwork. Lautaro is very experienced working with students with SEN, he does not refer to it as special needs but 'Super Powers'. Your mentor: A versatile and experienced professional with a rich background spanning over 20 years in project management, further education, and the creative entertainment industry. As a former teacher at UAL and at associated institutions Lautaro headed the Graphics Design and 3D Design sixth form departments and curriculum development. Renowned for conceptualisation, design, and fabrication expertise, Lautaro has contributed to globally recognised film, television, and theatre productions while also leading impactful community initiatives and educational programmes. Proficient in managing diverse responsibilities across creative and technical domains, with a strong passion for inspiring creativity and excellence.

In my masterclass workshop "Artistic Coaching in Photography, Film Editing and Filmmaking", I will show you how to use Adobe Premiere Pro and other film editing tools, how to make a film from start to finish, how to make your film visible to film festivals, how to create photography with your own unique signature, how to grow your audience, how to unblock limiting beliefs of being an artist and thrive as one! In today's profound world of photography and audiovisual content (where everyone with a phone can be an artist), I will help you develop as a REAL artist through methods and years of expertise and self-study, which worked for me and other professionals Whether you just want to practice or let me be your guide, as a recognized filmmaker I have worked with nominated film directors, been selected by film festivals, and have received the endorsement of many incredible artists and collectives all over the world with my photography.

If you need expert support in your creative writing, whether it's turning that idea into the screenplay you've always dreamed of, or improving your confidence in your writing voice, this class is perfect for you. Each class will be tailored to you and your needs, so that you are both supported and challenged. You are in good hands! I have a Diploma in Script Development from the National Film and Television School, one of the top five international films schools. I graduated with a First Class Honors in English Literature and Creative Writing, specializing in fiction and screenwriting. I have worked for the BBC for years in scripted television, as well as other major London production companies.

This course offers a dynamic exploration of filmmaking as a timeline, weaving together the evolution of cinematic movements, genres, and influential auteurs with their corresponding geopolitical and historical contexts. Students will examine how film has both reflected and shaped societal narratives across different eras and regions. Key themes and topics include: The Birth of Cinema: Early experiments in motion pictures and the silent era's groundbreaking innovations. Movements and Revolutions: From German Expressionism and Italian Neorealism to the French New Wave and beyond. Genres Across Time: The rise of key genres, such as noir, science fiction, and musicals, and their social significance. Auteur Theory: In-depth analysis of iconic directors whose works have defined and challenged cinematic norms. Global Perspectives: Exploration of world cinema, including Asian, African, and Latin American contributions to the art form. Cinema as Social Commentary: Films as responses to historical moments, such as wars, revolutions, and cultural shifts. By tracing the interplay between filmmaking and historical events, students will gain a deeper appreciation for the art form’s capacity to influence and be influenced by the world around it.

I teach Davinci Resolve and Premiere Pro from beginner to advanced. In the beginner and intermediate courses, all the important basics are covered and practiced using practical applications. The advanced courses go into finer details, such as advanced editing techniques or shed light on specific processes such as proxy workflows or colour management. Structure: The technical lessons are structured in 1 hour modules, using practical examples and allow time for experimentation and questions. I also teach editing theory and creative strategies across many different genres and styles. These are less structured and are tailored to specific needs. Open Sessions are also possible, where you may bring along a personal project and I will offer you technical assistance, feedback or tips.

In this class, aspiring filmmakers will learn the core skills of professional editing, from pacing and transitions to sound design, to shape engaging stories. Through hands-on projects, you’ll build technical expertise in editing software while mastering the art of cinematic storytelling. Tailored assignments and feedback ensure you progress quickly and confidently, leaving with a portfolio of polished, impactful scenes.

Film scoring is both an art and a craft, requiring a balance of creativity and technical skill. This course is designed to guide you step by step through the entire process of composing music for film, from your first idea to the final score ready for recording. You'll learn how to interpret a film's narrative and emotional beats, develop thematic material, and use industry-standard tools to create a dynamic score. We'll cover everything from sketching musical ideas to orchestrating, preparing MIDI mock-ups, and formatting scores for professional recording sessions. By the end of this course, you'll have the confidence and skills to tackle film scoring projects, no matter the scale.

Independent Filmmaking is now in its golden age. With prosumer cameras and iPhones, everyone can become a filmmaker. However, you need to know technical skills, storytelling techniques, visual aesthetics and editing tools in order to craft and finalize your film. This course focuses on independent filmmaking and arthouse film. It will equip you with the necessary tools to develop a unique voice amidst the clamor of mainstream cinematic conventions. Participants are guided through the intricacies of storytelling, cinematography, and post-production techniques, fostering a profound understanding of the craft. I am an independent filmmaker and experienced university teacher and I will not only share with you my professional knowledge, but I will also guide you in the development of your own film!

Online and/or face-to-face methodology. I have several years of experience as an audiovisual teacher, I have taught subjects such as audiovisual culture, history or production. I also give script classes and analyze audiovisual projects as a script doctor. I remain at your disposal for any questions :)

You will learn how to turn your ideas into screenplays with engaging and challenging storylines to engage an audience in TV and Film, using Industry standards. We will then look at how to write a Pitch Deck to send to Executive Producers and Commissioners. We will then look at how you cast, what crew will you need, do location reccies, costume and art design, which will lead to how to produce a Production Schedule, which is essential for everyone involved. You will learn about creating a shot list for your shoot, which includes camera angles, framing, lighting, lenses and additional equipment necessary. Once you have everybody and everything you need for your particular project, you will go out filming. You will then learn how to use Editing software, and how to make choices that are interesting and exciting.

My lessons are student driven, which means that since every person is different and unique, my task is to treat each one in a different way, trying to be inspiring for each one. Through creating, discussing, composing and producing, I will guide you throughout any process, until the result is achieved!

I am here to support and guide you in making your film idea come to reality. My name is Adrian. I am a feature film director and screenwriter. I have worked in the film and video industry for over twenty years. I have directed and written nine feature films and produced and directed over thirty documentaries, commercials, short films, and social media videos. I have won various awards for my film works at different international film festivals, including best director in the Hollywood International Golden Age Festival and New York Movie Awards, best short film in the Paris Cinema Awards, 10 Best Chinese Feature Film Award, Fukuoka Audience Award, Fukuoka International Film Festival, Japan and more. In my film career, I also have worked on many international film projects and collaborated with various international famous filmmakers and actors such as Jackie Chan, Peter Greenaway, Ewan McGregor, Claude Van Damme, Benny Chan, Andy Lau, Aaron Kwok, Louis Koo, Leslie Cheung, and Tony Leung. Education Master of Arts, Film Directing University of West London/MetFilm School, London, United Kingdom Bachelor of Fine Arts, Film and Video University of Regina, Saskatchewan, Canada Affiliations Associate Member of Directors UK, 2022-present Member of Hong Kong Screenwriters’ Guild, 2019-present Member of Hong Kong Film Directors’ Guild, 2005-present Professional Jury of Hong Kong Film Awards, 2010-present Teaching Experiences I am passionate about teaching and sharing my knowledge and experience with those passionate about filmmaking all over the world. I have accumulation of many years of teaching experience. I was a part-time lecturer at the School of Continuing and Professional Studies, The Chinese University of Hong Kong and the guest Lecturer in Digital Media, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University. Also, I have done over one hundred sharing and film seminars at universities, high schools, and different communities. And I have served as a judge and special guest speaker in various academic film festivals. Course outline: Introduction of the making a film and documentaries (workflow, different film crew positions and professional filmmaking terminology) Finding your idea Developing your idea Script writing Producing/budgeting/scheduling/casting Directing (how to become a good director) Storyboard Shooting technique (from professional equipment to a mobile phone shooting) On set shooting (camera/lighting/blocking/sound recording) Editing (premier pro) and sound mixing About the lesson (You can choose and discuss which is match your needs) All Level Tailor made private lessons Film Project Support and Tutorial

The history of Italian cinema is rich, vibrant and full of surprises. In this class, we will undertake a unique journey from its origins, with the establishment of Italian Silent Film and the so-called Golden Era, throughout the many developments and discoveries of the twentieth century, and all the way to what is Italian Cinema today. We will discuss and analyse films that played a remarkable role in shaping modern cinema: from the school of Neorealism to the auteur tradition of film directors such as Fellini, Antonioni, Visconti, Bertolucci, and many more. We will learn the language of cinema and discover a new way to unlock the meaning and artistry of filmmaking. About this course, this is a one-of-a-kind class accessible to everyone and that combines materials taught at university level with the flexibility and fun of one-on-one bespoke courses.