Intro to Filmmaking

April 19 - 27, 2025

1 PM - 4 PM EST

Instructor: Aia Raafat

Intro to Filmmaking is a 3-part introductory workshop for artists who are interested in learning how to work with video. This hands-on workshop provides artists with camera, audio, and lighting basics from pre- to post-production.

Under the guidance of filmmaker Aia Raafat, participants will gain experience handling equipment, learn how to set up for a video shoot, and complete exercises to simulate various shooting conditions and situations. Participants will work together in small groups to produce a short video. Topics include: pre-production, scripts and storyboards basics, camera basics, shooting techniques, lighting techniques, cinematography basics, audio production basics, and an introduction to video editing with DaVinci Resolve.

This is an in-person workshop offered at Digital Arts Resource Centre (67 Nicholas St, Ottawa) and the DARC Soundstage.

Registration

Session 1: Saturday, April 19, 1pm-4pm

Session 2: Saturday, April 26, 1pm-4pm

Session 3: Sunday, April 27, 1pm-4pm

Participants will need access to:

All filmmaking equipment and software will be provided by DARC.

(Optional) Personal laptop with DaVinci Resolve 19 (download here)

Any additional materials will be sent in advance via email

Please Note: Desktop computers will be provided for participants to use for video editing but you may bring your own laptop if you prefer. Workshop time will not permit the instructor to troubleshoot hardware or software issues on your laptop.

Documentation Disclaimer

DARC staff may be taking photos or videos of this workshop to share with our funders and to promote future workshops on the DARC website and social media. If you do not wish to have your photo or video taken, please let a member of DARC staff know and we will be happy to accommodate your request.

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About DARC's Workshops

Digital Arts Resource Centre (DARC) provides training in a varied range of disciplines related to filmmaking and media art while making a dedicated effort to create a pathway to an intersectional education. We aspire to be a platform for creative support and community building through active participation and exchange of knowledge. Our workshops and courses explore the ways in which technical and conceptual frameworks can be used as tools to improve your creative practice. DARC’s educational offerings are open to members and the general public engaged in the creation of non-commercial, independent productions and work.

Who Is Eligible to Register for Workshops?

Workshops are open to Digital Arts Resource Centre members and the general public engaged in the creation of non-commercial, independent productions and work (Non-commercial, independent productions are productions for which the director retains copyright and artistic control, and for which the production is neither being produced for a client nor for the purpose of advertising or promotion).

Who Is Ineligible for Workshops?

Digital Arts Resource Centre does not offer our workshops to persons employed by any government body or any major corporation if the resources are being used to facilitate benefit for one’s employer or for corporate professional development within one of these kinds of organizations. Our workshops are heavily subsidized as they are available only for independent artists/learners who cannot typically afford to take corporate rate workshops. You can find non-subsidized workshops from our friends at SPAO or Henry’s.

Workshop Pricing

DARC’s single-session online workshops are offered on a sliding scale, meaning individuals determine their own fee based on what they can afford.

We understand that everyone’s situation is different. When registering for workshops, we ask that you honestly examine your privilege (i.e. education, generational wealth, parental or community support, partnership status, and other circumstances that may provide a safety net when financial setbacks occur).

DARC also offers a no cost ticket option if access to funds is a barrier to participation. For more information please email us.

Accessibility

All doors at DARC have accessibility buttons to press for automatic entry. DARC is located on the main floor (one story above ground) of the Arts Court building. DARC’s main entrance is located at 67 Nicholas Street which is fully wheelchair accessible. Alternate wheelchair-accessible entry is available through 2 Daly Ave at the Arts Court main entrance or the Ottawa Art Gallery. Elevator access is available from 9AM – 11PM.

DARC staff are available and happy to assist with all inquiries and requests regarding physical access. We also welcome inquiry, feedback, and resources regarding accessibility and accessibility improvement by phone (613.238.7648 x. 6) or by email at access@digitalartsresourcecentre.ca.

Cancellation

DARC is unable to provide course attendee refunds for cancellations. DARC reserves the right to cancel or reschedule courses if necessary.

HOURS: 10 AM TO 5 PM MONDAY - WEDNESDAY | 10 AM TO 6PM THURSDAY - FRIDAY

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