Week 1: Music Video Analysis & Visual Style
Explore visually engaging music videos across camera styles, direction, production design, mood and practical effects. Review student-submitted references and a selection of tracks from local artists while identifying techniques, aesthetics and ideas the group may want to explore.
Week 2: Concept Pitching & Song Selection
Pitch visual concepts as a group, select the final track and begin shaping a shared creative direction. Identify realistic camera techniques, practical effects and production ideas that can be achieved with the people, locations and resources available.
Week 3: Pre-Production & Scene Planning
Turn the concept into a workable production plan by developing shot lists, scene geography and production requirements. Identify locations, props, wardrobe, set pieces, practical effects and other elements that need to be sourced or built.
Week 4: On-Location Scouting
Meet on location to evaluate lighting, space, permissions, power, equipment needs and staging possibilities. Adapt the creative concept to the real opportunities and limitations of the shooting environment.
Week 5: Production Planning & Shoot Schedule
Build the shooting schedule, allocate time for each scene and finalize props, wardrobe and production responsibilities. Test camera moves, playback, practical effects and performer direction where possible so the group is ready for production.
Weeks 6 & 7: Production Days
Take part in two extended six-hour shoot days with the participating artist or performers. Work collaboratively across camera, lighting, props, continuity, performance and production responsibilities while adapting the plan as creative and logistical challenges arise.
Week 8: Dailies & Edit Planning
Review the production footage as a group, identify the strongest takes and break the song into clear visual beats. Develop detailed creative notes for pacing, clip selection and story structure to guide the editing process.
Week 9: Rough Cut Review
Review the initial assembly cut and provide collaborative creative feedback. Refine pacing, transitions, shot selection and narrative flow while identifying any pickups, titles or simple visual effects still needed.
Week 10: Final Cut & Finishing
Review the completed edit and provide final creative notes on colour, titles, effects and overall presentation. Prepare the finished music video for release and its cinema screening.
Final Showcase: Mayfair Theatre Premiere
Celebrate the completed project with a Saturday afternoon screening on the big screen at Ottawa’s historic Mayfair Theatre.
