Filmmaking
Concentration
BA and MFA Programs
Filmmaking Overview
Turn your creative dreams and aspirations into reality.
Turn your dreams into reality as you immerse yourself in all aspects of filmmaking—directing, writing, cinematography, lighting, and editing. The filmmaking concentration gives you the hands-on skills to jump-start your career as you work in a collaborative environment. You’ll rotate through all the crew positions on the set, develop a professional quality demo reel, and develop the conceptual, technical, and creative foundation you need in today’s fast-paced film environment.
Next SFI Start Dates: March 24, 2025 and September 29, 2025
Register for one of our Info Sessions on Tuesdays at 10am
Register for one of our Info Sessions on Thursdays at 4pm
Learn More About Filmmaking Opportunities at SEATTLE FILM INSTITUTE!
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Career Outlook
In today’s digital world, visual communication abilities are more important than ever before. Screens are everywhere. Wherever the screen is, whenever its displaying, people were paid to create it. Our filmmaking program gives you the skill-set to join this rapidly expanding field. There are many occupations and careers available to you:
- Film director
- Film/video editor
- Web content producer
- Writer
- Lighting technician, broadcasting/film/video
- Location manager
- Media researcher
- Music producer
- Runner, broadcasting/film/video
- Sound technician, broadcasting/film/video
- Television/film/video producer
Overall employment in filmmaking related fields is projected to grow faster than the average for all occupations. The number of Internet-only platforms, such as streaming services, is likely to increase, along with the number of shows produced for these platforms. Make your mark on a fast-growing industry.
Curriculum
The Filmmaking program is a fully immersive experience. Students learn by doing with a hands-on curriculum focused on fundamental elements.
Directing
Explore the full range of directorial responsibilities: working and communicating effectively with actors, designing shots, translating your script to a shot list, managing and executing your shoot and so much more.
Cinematography & Lighting
Learn how to shoot, light and equipment from a technical standpoint. If you have an image in your head, we want you to have the capability of capturing that image on-screen.
Screenwriting
At the heart of every great movie is a great script. Students is mentored and guided through the completion of scripts for multiple short films they create throughout the course of the program.
Editing and Post Production
Students master the technical skills and gain an understanding of the conceptual principles of editing. Good cuts and effective pacing create compelling visual storytelling.
Film History & Film Analysis
Students enhance their hands-on skills by analyzing how the most successful filmmakers from every era utilize the same skills and abilities they are developing.
Professional Practices
Students create a demo reel and resume, clarify their long- and short-term goals, and prepare to make the transition from film student to working professional.