SDA Film
Welcome to SDA School of Film and Media Arts, where high school students can explore their passion for filmmaking and gain hands-on experience in various aspects of the film production process.
Our film school offers a range of classes covering everything from directing and editing to cinematography, sound design, and film appreciation. Our courses are designed to provide students with a well-rounded understanding of what it takes to create compelling films that engage and inspire audiences.
Our experienced faculty includes industry professionals and seasoned academics passionate about sharing their knowledge and expertise with the next generation of filmmakers. They will provide personalized instruction and guidance to help you develop your skills and hone your craft.
Our facilities have state-of-the-art cameras, editing software, and sound recording equipment. We also have soundstage and other production facilities that allow you to get hands-on experience in a real-world setting.
Our film school has a proven track record of helping students achieve their goals and fulfill their dreams.
Whether you're interested in pursuing a career in filmmaking or want to explore your creativity and learn something new, SDA Film School is the perfect place for you. Join us today and discover your passion for filmmaking!
Embracing Innovation with Cutting-Edge Technology
At SDA Schools, we believe that the future of education lies at the intersection of creativity and technology. We are committed to equipping our students with the tools, skills, and knowledge to thrive in a rapidly evolving digital world.
SDA Pioneering in Technology-Driven Learning
Our programs incorporate the latest advancements in technology to enhance the learning experience and prepare students for careers in the modern creative industries. From 3D modeling and animation in Unreal Engine and Blender to digital art mastery with Procreate and Photoshop, we ensure our students are proficient with industry-standard tools.
State-of-the-Art Facilities
SDA Schools offer access to professional recording studios, advanced editing suites, and cutting-edge digital labs. These facilities are designed to simulate real-world environments, providing hands-on experience that bridges the gap between education and industry.
Innovating in Curriculum Design
We continuously adapt our curriculum to integrate new technologies such as AI-assisted design, virtual reality (VR), and augmented reality (AR). These immersive tools empower students to push creative boundaries, while project-based learning encourages innovation and collaboration.
Shaping Tomorrow’s Creators
By staying ahead of the technological curve, SDA Schools inspire students to become leaders in their fields. Whether in music production, game design, film, or fine arts, our programs ensure that every graduate is ready to excel in their chosen profession and adapt to the challenges of tomorrow.
SDA Film Course
Film Production 101
Film Production 102
Directing
Acting
Editing
Cinematography
Sound design
Film Music
Filming in Unreal Engine
Game Production
Character Design
Animation Production 201
Animation Production202
6-Week Online Film Editing & Documentary Workshop: Telling Stories That Matter
The recent fires in Los Angeles have deeply impacted the community and posed challenges to the local film industry. As media professionals and filmmakers, we have a responsibility to capture these stories and share messages of hope and resilience. That’s why we’ve created this 6-Week Online Film Editing & Documentary Workshop, designed to teach participants how to create impactful documentaries using public footage, while offering free enrollment to LA students affected by the fires.
Los Angeles is not only the heart of the global film industry but also home to countless creative talents. However, the recent fires have left a significant mark on both the community and the film industry. Through this course, we aim to empower young filmmakers to use the power of media to document and share these important stories. Additionally, we’re offering free enrollment to LA students affected by the fires, helping them find new opportunities and rebuild their futures.
Who Can Join?
🎟️ LA students affected by recent fires – Apply for free at www.sdaschools.org
🎟️ Aspiring filmmakers & the general public – Join with a recommended donation of ¥100–5,000, helping fund free education for students in need.
🎬 What You’ll Learn:
✅ How to ethically source and use public domain footage, news clips, and social media videos
✅ Professional editing techniques to transform real-life events into compelling documentaries
✅ Sound design and music integration to enhance emotional impact
✅ Strategies for publishing and distributing your work on platforms like YouTube, social media, and film festivals
Themes in the following quarters:
Spring Quarter Themes
Naturalism in Film
Focus: Realistic storytelling, capturing authentic performances and natural environments.
Skills: Basics of lighting, camera operation, and working with actors.
Projects: Beginners create short observational scenes; advanced students produce a polished, naturalistic short film.
Introduction to Realism
Focus: Crafting believable stories and immersive visuals grounded in reality.
Skills: Scriptwriting fundamentals, realistic dialogue, and scene blocking.
Projects: Beginners write and storyboard short scenes; advanced students film and edit a story-driven project.
Exploring Genres: Drama
Focus: Deep emotional narratives and character-driven storytelling.
Skills: Writing complex characters, building tension, and creating mood.
Projects: Beginners create dramatic vignettes; advanced students complete a short dramatic film.
Documentary Foundations
Focus: Capturing real-world events and stories authentically.
Skills: Conducting interviews, b-roll shooting, and narrative structuring.
Projects: Beginners create a mini-documentary; advanced students tackle a longer, theme-driven documentary project.
Cinematic Composition
Focus: Understanding framing, composition, and visual storytelling.
Skills: Storyboarding, shot planning, and the rule of thirds.
Projects: Beginners create a series of storyboarded and filmed compositions; advanced students focus on creating a cohesive visual style.
Summer Quarter Themes
Formalism in Film
Focus: Experimental and stylized storytelling using visual and symbolic elements.
Skills: Advanced cinematography, abstract editing, and color grading.
Projects: Beginners experiment with short symbolic scenes; advanced students craft a visually driven narrative.
Action and Movement in Film
Focus: Filming dynamic scenes, including action sequences and choreography.
Skills: Camera movement, pacing, and stunt coordination basics.
Projects: Beginners shoot simple chase or movement scenes; advanced students design and film intricate action sequences.
Genre Filmmaking: Sci-Fi
Focus: World-building and crafting futuristic or speculative narratives.
Skills: Using visual effects, set design, and genre-specific storytelling techniques.
Projects: Beginners explore basic VFX and props; advanced students create a short sci-fi film.
Sound and Music in Film
Focus: Enhancing storytelling through soundscapes, foley, and music scoring.
Skills: Basics of audio recording, sound editing, and music composition.
Projects: Beginners create a short scene with added sound design; advanced students complete a film with a professionally mixed soundtrack.
Introduction to Short Film Production
Focus: End-to-end short film creation, from script to screen.
Skills: Pre-production planning, filming, and post-production techniques.
Projects: Beginners collaborate on group projects; advanced students independently produce their own short films.
Key Features for Each Theme
Beginner-Friendly: Clear foundational skills for newcomers.
Advanced Challenges: Opportunities for experienced students to push boundaries.
Relevant Skills: Each theme builds toward professional-level film production.
Contact to our consultant to get a professional Mentor and a personalized learning plan.
