Introduction to Visual Storytelling

Beginner Course

Great filmmaking moves beyond simply capturing images. In this live online course, you'll go beyond pointing and shooting to explore how filmmakers use every element on screen to create emotion, build suspense, and guide the audience's attention. Over four weeks, this course will demystify the art of visual storytelling, giving you the skills to create more impactful, intentional, and professional films.


With an experienced filmmaker as your guide, you will leave the course with a deeper understanding of cinematic language and the confidence to apply these techniques to your own projects. Through in-class analysis and exercises, you’ll understand the key concepts around composition, lenses, color, lighting, and camera movement to evoke specific feelings and immerse your audience in your story.


Who should take this course:

Whether you’re a beginner or simply curious, this course will provide you with the tools necessary to develop your unique voice and communicate with your creative team to bring your vision to life.


By the end of this course, you’ll have:

  • Step-by-step guidance on how to break down your script and analyze story to create a visual plan
  • An understanding of narrative perspective
  • A working knowledge of the fundamentals of composition, camera movement, color, lenses, and lighting
  • An expanded cinematic vocabulary that is essential for collaboration

This course also includes:

  • practical tools you can apply to any project
  • a vibrant online community to exchange ideas and share your work
  • live Q&A sessions with your instructor
  • curated reading and viewing suggestions (no required homework)

1-on-1 Feedback:

For more personalized support, you can book a 45-minute 1-on-1 session with your Instructor to receive detailed feedback on your script breakdown. 


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.