Defining Your Voice as a Director

How do you know the difference between a Tarantino and an Emerald Fennell film? What’s different about the styles of Steven Spielberg and Chloé Zhao? You might call a filmmaker’s visual language and point of view their “cinematic voice,” and it may take years to refine.

In this online weekend intensive, writer and director Lindsay MacKay (Wet Bum, The Swearing Jar) will guide you on steps you can take to start developing your voice and visual style as a filmmaker.

What you bring to the course:

• a general understanding of filmmaking terminology.
• some experience in filmmaking in an academic or professional setting.
• an interest in building a career as a director.

What you’ll get from the course:

• A breakdown of notable directors’ visual styles
• A deeper understanding of how visual language can translate to an audience
• An understanding of the various shot sizes, styles and perspectives
• How to approach designing a frame and placing the camera
• An approach to choosing your camera and aspect ratio
• A pathway to discover your own point of view as an artist

This course will:

• provide tools and techniques that apply to any project.
• connect you with other creators via a discussion board where you can discuss core concepts and share your work.

Intensive Schedule

• Friday, August 15
• 4:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. PT
• Saturday, August 16
• 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. PT
• 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. PT
• Sunday, August 17
• 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. PT
• 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. PT

A limited number of need-based scholarships are available and are considered on a rolling basis as they are received. Those who apply earlier will have a greater chance of getting support. To apply for a scholarship, please complete the course registration form.

Sundance Collab provides accommodations and support services to participants with disabilities. Accommodations and services are designed to meet the needs of each participant. Please email us at accessibility@sundance.org to arrange for services.