Learn to create a visually captivating, DIY music video on little to no budget—powered by passion, dedication, and creative resourcefulness. Taught by industry expert Petr Maur, this hands-on course breaks down professional film production into accessible techniques you can execute in your own back room.
Petr leans on his extensive background—ranging from cult indie films to multi-million-dollar productions—to teach visual styling, camera work, set design, practical effects, and editing. Working together as a production crew, your class will conceptualize, stage, direct, film, and edit an official, commercial-ready music video for a real performing local band.
Course Rundown
Format: Hands-On Creative Course (Saturday Afternoons)
Phase 1: Concept, Visual Style & Storytelling
Analyze music video styles and establish a visual theme that complements your song. Learn pre-production essentials, including scripting, staging, location scouting, props, set dressing, and pitching visual ideas as a collaborative team.
Phase 2: Camera Work, Lighting & Practical Effects
Master essential camera techniques and learn how to build striking visual sets on a budget. Explore practical effects, natural daylight shooting techniques, and high-impact visual tricks scaled down from major film sets.
Phase 3: Production & On-Set Directing
Step onto set with a real local band. Gain hands-on experience directing performers, managing camera movement, handling production logistics, and collaborating effectively under real-time shooting conditions.
Phase 4: Post-Production, Editing & Final Delivery
Bring raw footage into post-production. Learn professional editing workflows to trim, sequence, and polish a commercial-ready music video that the band will release for their official promotion.
By The End Of This Course, You Will:
- Understand the end-to-end music video production workflow on a minimal budget.
- Develop a strong visual style and storyboard that fits the essence of a song.
- Master camera techniques, natural lighting, and practical special effects.
- Gain hands-on experience in set design, location scouting, props, and staging.
- Build real-world team collaboration and diplomatic production skills.
- Deliver a polished, commercial-ready music video for an active local band.
Materials & Prerequisites Required
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Video Reference Submission: Before class begins, submit a YouTube link to a music video you love and be ready to discuss what inspires you about its visual style or camera techniques.
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Creative Curiosity: No prior film degree required, but an interest in cameras, set design, acting, storytelling, directing, or editing is recommended.
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Collaborative Mindset: This is an in-person, group project environment. Bring enthusiasm, flexibility, and a willingness to get hands-on with a crew.
Course Details
Dates: To be announced
Format: Weekly sessions · Saturday afternoons
Location: Urban Art Collective Art Hub, 50 Bayswater Avenue, Ottawa
Instructor: Petr Maur
Level: Beginner / Intermediate
Maximum Capacity: 12 students
Minimum Enrolment: 6 students required
