J284 Documentary Production

Journalism 284 is the second semester of a year-long intensive documentary production workshop where second-year students develop and produce their thesis films. Students combine rigorous research and reporting with cinematic storytelling, and we work with the styles of cinematography, lighting, sound, and editing unique to documentary film. Guest filmmakers may conduct master classes on various…

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J283 Video Reporting and Storytelling

This is a required course for all students who are in the Documentary thesis concentrations. It will meet twice a week. The course is structured around two simultaneous modules: Module 1: Technical sessions designed to promote advanced proficiency in several technical production skills critical to the process of video storytelling (editing, camera, sound, and lighting).…

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J296 Graphics, Animation and News Explainers

This course is designed to introduce you to practices in animation used by media organizations. Prior knowledge of animation and motion graphics is not needed. Each class will consist of a short demonstration, viewing of related works, hands-on experimentation, and critique. The course will conclude with the creation of final projects in which students will…

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Graduate Thesis Showcase: Shortform Video

striking red and black poster for the short form thesis showcase.

Please join us at BAMPFA’s Barbro Osher Theater to watch and celebrate the final projects of students in the short form video program at the UC Berkeley Graduate School of Journalism. Our program’s visual journalists have spent the last four months reporting, filming and editing this powerful collection of work from across the U.S. and…

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J284A Documentary and Short-Series Workshop

J284A is the first semester of a year-long, immersive workshop where second-year students produce, shoot, and edit their Thesis Projects. In J284A, the classroom is transformed into a professional workshop space where students learn advanced visual storytelling concepts and engage in practices modeled after the field. Students pitch projects in a pitch forum, write detailed treatments, conduct…

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J282 Introduction to Video Storytelling

Introduction to Video Storytelling immerses students in the foundational elements of visual storytelling, focusing on light, composition, framing, building visual sequences, and video interviews. Students will learn how to use the power of visual language to tell compelling stories, convey meaning and emotions, and engage their audience. Through theoretical lessons, practical exercises, and constructive critiques,…

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Philomathia Day: Immersive Environmental Storytelling

Jennifer Redfearn

As part of winning the 2023 Philomathia Prize, Jennifer Redfearn, Director of Berkeley Journalism’s Documentary Program, has curated Philomathia Day: Immersive Environmental Storytelling on Wednesday, January 31, 2024, 9:30 am – 5:00 pm, at the David Brower Center in Berkeley.  This day-long event is an exploration at the nexus of visual journalism, environmental science, art,…

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J283 Video Reporting and Storytelling (Section 2)

This is a required course for all students who will continue on to the short form video or Documentary thesis concentrations. It will meet twice a week. The course is structured around 2 simultaneous modules: Module 1: Technical sessions designed to promote advanced proficiency in several technical production skills critical to the process of video…

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J284 Documentary Production

Journalism 284 is the second semester of a year-long intensive documentary production workshop where second-year students develop and produce their thesis films. Students combine rigorous research and reporting with cinematic storytelling, and we work with the styles of cinematography, lighting, sound, and editing unique to documentary film. Guest filmmakers may conduct master classes on various…

Read More