Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Fall 2025 - CA 233 D100

The Techniques of Film (2)

Class Number: 6219

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Sep 3 – Dec 2, 2025: Tue, 2:30–5:20 p.m.
    GOLDCORP

  • Prerequisites:

    CA 131. Corequisite: CA 230.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

Advances technical skills to work confidently and safely in collaborative film production settings. Students will benefit from professional training in the field of contemporary filmmaking. A laboratory fee is required.

COURSE DETAILS:

This course will support students in building technical confidence as they make the transition from working individually on DSLR cameras to working collaboratively in small teams with the RED camera. Over the semester, students will gain familiarity and practice in a number of areas, including cinematography, lighting techniques, set etiquette, and safety. The objective will be to elevate foundational technical skills, demystify crew roles and set work, and build greater confidence in using equipment to explore one’s creative vision. By the end of the course, students should also feel confident in volunteering for crew roles on upper-division sets while also considering preproduction needs for their own films. CA233 is a required course for all Film majors and is offered in conjunction with CA230. 

COURSE-LEVEL EDUCATIONAL GOALS:

  • Elevate foundational technical skills and build greater confidence by providing hands-on practice in cinematography, lighting, sound and set etiquette
  • Support students in understanding how different types of equipment and crew structures can support diverse types of projects.
  • Provide students with a safe space to observe, practice and ask questions

Grading

  • Exercises 50%
  • Mock Shoot 20%
  • Participation & Engagement 30%

Materials

REQUIRED READING NOTES:

Your personalized Course Material list, including digital and physical textbooks, are available through the SFU Bookstore website by simply entering your Computing ID at: shop.sfu.ca/course-materials/my-personalized-course-materials.

Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

At SFU, you are expected to act honestly and responsibly in all your academic work. Cheating, plagiarism, or any other form of academic dishonesty harms your own learning, undermines the efforts of your classmates who pursue their studies honestly, and goes against the core values of the university.

To learn more about the academic disciplinary process and relevant academic supports, visit: 


RELIGIOUS ACCOMMODATION

Students with a faith background who may need accommodations during the term are encouraged to assess their needs as soon as possible and review the Multifaith religious accommodations website. The page outlines ways they begin working toward an accommodation and ensure solutions can be reached in a timely fashion.