Certificate in Filmmaking
SAQA: 58394
NQF: Level 5
Qualification: Certificate
Full Time: 1 Year
Part-time: 18 Months
Credits: 122
Overview
The Filmmaking Course is designed to provide specialized, hands-on training for individuals aspiring to work as key crew members in the film industry. This one-year program focuses on the critical roles that support film production, such as Camera operator, Gaffer, Grip, First Assistant Camera (First AC), First Assistant director (First AD), and other essential behind-the-scenes positions. Students will gain practical skills and technical knowledge needed to excel in these assistant roles, ensuring they become invaluable members of any film crew.
Throughout the year, students will engage in real-world production environments, developing expertise in lighting setups, camera operations, scheduling, and on-set management. The course emphasizes the importance of teamwork, communication, and technical proficiency, all of which are critical to the smooth functioning of a film set.
Key Areas of Study:
- Camera Operations and Focus Pulling (First AC Training)
- Lighting and Electrical Setup (Gaffer Training)
- Grip Work and Rigging for Camera and Lighting (Grip Training)
- Production Scheduling and Crew Management (First AD Training)
- Collaboration with Directors, Cinematographers, and Production Staff
- Health and Safety on Set
By the end of the course, students will be equipped with the practical skills and experience necessary to step into assistant roles in professional film productions. This program is ideal for individuals looking to pursue careers as production managers, Writers, Camera operators, Gaffers, Grips, First ACs, First ADs, and other key technical crew positions, providing a solid foundation for long-term success in the film industry.
Career Opportunities
A Camera Operator plays a crucial role in the filmmaking process, responsible for capturing the visual elements of a film or television production. Working closely with the director and cinematographer, the camera operator ensures that each shot is framed and executed according to the creative vision of the project
Oversees the filming schedule, coordinates with crew members, and ensures that the production runs efficiently.
Responsible for managing the lighting on set, working closely with the cinematographer to achieve the desired visual effects.
Specializes in rigging and supporting camera and lighting equipment, ensuring smooth camera movements and safe setups.
Manages camera equipment, pulls focus, and assists the cinematographer with technical camera tasks.
Supervises the grip department, working on camera rigging, dolly setups, and handling special rigging for difficult shots.
