Explore Our Directing Courses

Elevate your filmmaking skills with our comprehensive courses designed for aspiring directors.

Course Categories

Directing Fundamentals

Build a solid foundation in the core principles of film directing. Learn essential techniques for script analysis, shot composition, and actor direction.

Advanced Cinematography

Master advanced cinematography techniques to create visually stunning and impactful films. Explore lighting, camera movement, and visual storytelling.

Post-Production Mastery

Learn the art of post-production to create a polished final product. Master editing, sound design, visual effects, and color grading.

Our Courses

Close-up of a director's eye looking through a viewfinder

Directing Fundamentals I: Visual Storytelling

This introductory course provides a solid foundation in visual storytelling, focusing on shot composition, camera movement, and scene blocking.

Course Overview

Directing Fundamentals I: Visual Storytelling is designed for aspiring directors with little to no prior experience. This course covers the basic principles of visual communication in film, teaching students how to effectively use camera angles, composition, and movement to tell compelling stories.

Key Topics Covered

  • Shot Composition and Framing
  • Camera Movement Techniques
  • Scene Blocking and Staging
  • Understanding Lenses and Their Effects
  • Basic Cinematography Principles

Course Objectives

Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:

  • Understand and apply basic principles of visual storytelling.
  • Compose shots effectively to convey mood and meaning.
  • Use camera movement to enhance storytelling.
  • Block scenes to create dynamic and engaging visuals.
Enrollment Information

Instructor: Evelyn Hayes

Duration: 8 weeks

Tuition: $1,200

Prerequisites: None

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Director reviewing script with actors on set

Directing Actors: Performance and Collaboration

Learn how to effectively communicate with actors, elicit compelling performances, and build a collaborative working relationship.

Course Overview

Directing Actors: Performance and Collaboration is designed for directors who want to enhance their skills in working with actors. This course explores techniques for effective communication, building trust, and eliciting authentic performances.

Key Topics Covered

  • Effective Communication Techniques
  • Building Trust and Rapport with Actors
  • Understanding Acting Methods
  • Rehearsal Techniques
  • On-Set Performance Management

Course Objectives

Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:

  • Communicate effectively with actors of varying experience levels.
  • Build a collaborative working relationship based on trust and respect.
  • Guide actors to deliver compelling and nuanced performances.
  • Troubleshoot common performance issues on set.
Enrollment Information

Instructor: Javier Ramirez

Duration: 6 weeks

Tuition: $950

Prerequisites: Directing Fundamentals I or equivalent experience

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Film crew setting up a camera for a night shoot

Advanced Cinematography: Lighting and Camera Techniques

Dive deep into the art of lighting and camera operation to create visually stunning and impactful cinematic experiences.

Course Overview

Advanced Cinematography: Lighting and Camera Techniques is an intensive course for experienced cinematographers and directors looking to master advanced visual techniques. This course covers advanced lighting setups, complex camera movements, and creative approaches to visual storytelling.

Key Topics Covered

  • Advanced Lighting Setups for Film and Digital Cinema
  • Complex Camera Movement and Rigging
  • Color Theory and Grading
  • Working with Specialized Equipment (e.g., gimbals, drones)
  • Visual Effects Cinematography

Course Objectives

Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:

  • Create sophisticated lighting designs for various cinematic scenarios.
  • Execute complex camera movements with precision and artistry.
  • Apply color theory to enhance mood and visual impact.
  • Effectively integrate visual effects into cinematography.
Enrollment Information

Instructor: Anya Petrova

Duration: 10 weeks

Tuition: $1,500

Prerequisites: Intermediate Cinematography or equivalent experience

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Editor working on a film editing software interface

Post-Production Mastery: Editing and Visual Effects

Master the art of post-production to create a polished and professional final product, including editing, sound design, and visual effects.

Course Overview

Post-Production Mastery: Editing and Visual Effects is a comprehensive course that covers all aspects of post-production, from editing and sound design to visual effects and color grading. This course is designed for filmmakers who want to take their projects to the next level.

Key Topics Covered

  • Non-Linear Editing Techniques
  • Sound Design and Mixing
  • Visual Effects Compositing
  • Color Grading and Correction
  • Mastering and Delivery

Course Objectives

Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:

  • Edit footage effectively to create a compelling narrative.
  • Design and mix sound to enhance the emotional impact of a film.
  • Create and integrate visual effects seamlessly.
  • Color grade footage to achieve a desired look and feel.
Enrollment Information

Instructor: Kenji Tanaka

Duration: 12 weeks

Tuition: $1,800

Prerequisites: Basic filmmaking knowledge or equivalent experience

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Enrollment Details

Ready to take your filmmaking career to the next level? Zenith Directing Academy offers flexible enrollment options to fit your schedule and budget.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the prerequisites for the courses?

Prerequisites vary depending on the course. Some introductory courses have no prerequisites, while advanced courses may require prior experience or completion of introductory courses.

Do you offer online courses?

Currently, we primarily offer in-person courses at our Los Angeles campus. However, we are developing online courses for the future.

What is the class size?

We maintain small class sizes to ensure personalized attention for each student. The average class size is 15-20 students.

Are there any career services available?

Yes, we offer career services to help our graduates find jobs in the film industry, including resume workshops, networking events, and job placement assistance.

What kind of equipment do you use?

We use industry-standard equipment, including Arri cameras, Kino Flo lighting, and Avid editing software.

Can I get college credit for these courses?

We are not currently accredited to offer college credit. However, our courses are designed to provide practical skills and knowledge that are highly valued in the film industry.