Mobile Filmmaking Specialization for Professional Social Media Content

Influences | That Iceland Guy

Now I will talk about some of my influencess and how they have inspired me in my professional work throughout the years.

Influences | Anna Pepe

In this lesson, I will share my main influences in the construction of my work. Watching other creators is a fantastic way to learn and get inspired.

We are inspired by people, books, and ideas that explain what makes people tick. Why do they do the things they do? Then, how do you use that to market your business?

Influences | Canvas+Co

Module 2

Step into the world of filmmaking with just your smartphone and a bold idea. Guided by Pete Majarich, you’ll learn how to plan, shoot, and edit a cinematic short scene from scratch. Explore visual storytelling, composition, and pacing to turn everyday moments into powerful, polished films.

17 lessons (2h 34m)

Introduction to Filmmaking

If you’re doing this course, chances are, you love film and movies. That's why in this lesson, I will briefly recap the world of filmmaking.

Why Film on a Smartphone?

I like to tell stories with whatever technology is on hand at the time. During this lesson, I will discuss how smartphones have dramatically changed the world of filmmaking.

The Composition

People spend their entire lives trying to create beautiful, cinematic images. Therefore, in this lesson, I will walk you through a quick look at how to compose a nice cinematic frame.

The Look

One of the things that people ask me the most is…how do you get such cinematic-looking images from a smartphone? During this lesson, I will teach you how to get it.

13m

Getting Started and Coming up with Ideas

In this first lesson, I’ll begin by brainstorming ideas for the project. You'll look at some other smartphone short films that I've done by myself and other filmmakers. Lastly, I'll talk about how you can come up with your own idea.

The Equipment

As we’ve said before, there’s no end to the amount of equipment you can use when it comes to photography and cinematography. During this lesson, you’ll look at what equipment you will need to shoot with your smartphone.

Planning the Shoot

Ok! Let’s get down to the details. How are you actually going to do your shoot? In this lesson, I'll teach you how to go ahead and plan the shoot.

Cast and Character

A central part of your film’s success will be the quality of the actors you work with. In some cases, you might use your friends or family. But if possible, I recommend working with trained actors, or at least people who are studying to be one. Let's talk about casting actors and how to work with them.

The Set

The most exciting part of any project is kicking it off. After all the planning, the prep, and the ideas…now it’s time to actually bring it to life. We’ll visit the set in preparation for the shoot in this lesson.

The Team

A considerable part of any film production is the people you are working with. You'll meet the people who will help make my film during this lesson. You can use this lesson as a guide to doing the same for your project.

The Shoot

If you’ve done everything right, it’s time to call out “Action!”. Start methodically but swiftly going through your shot list and capturing what you need. Let me show you how I shoot my scene!

Editing 1

In this lesson, you'll learn how to start editing. To start off, let’s bring the footage into the editing program. You can use any non-linear editing program like Premiere Pro, Resolve or even an app on your phone.

20m

Editing 2

During this second part of the lesson, I'll teach you how to assemble a basic scene. I will share some tips and tricks for establishing shots, b-roll and cutaways. You'll also see how to check out the timeline.

The Sound

We think of film as a visual medium. And the visuals are essential for sure. But an arguably more critical component is sound. In this lesson, I'll discuss audio's importance in a short film.

20m

Polishing Your Film 1

It's time to add the final touches to the film. That's why I'll teach you how to add some visual polish to the film and export it.

Now you'll learn the logistical process of exporting your film. Where do you plan to share it? Instagram? Vimeo? YouTube?

Polishing Your Film 2

18m

Sharing Your Work

Now that you have your film, what's next? The only thing left to do is get your film out there! I'll talk about how you can share it with your friends and family or maybe a smartphone film festival.

Module 3

Learn to craft scroll-stopping commercial videos using just your smartphone. With filmmaker Jose Prada as your guide, you’ll explore the essentials of storytelling, lighting, editing, and art direction to produce striking brand content. Discover how to turn creative ideas into polished, attention-grabbing videos made for the world of social media.

15 lessons (2h 42m)

Evolution of Advertising in Social Media

In this lesson, I will delve into the world of advertising during the era of social media! We will also cover the different types of commercials most used on these platforms.

One-Man Band

Next, I will break down the role of a filmmaker. Nowadays, producing a film requires an eclectic range of skills. The filmmaker is responsible for the pre-production, production, and post-production phase. In this lesson, you will learn what that entails.

Researching the Client

Now, you will see how to research a client to get a better knowledge about the brand and the product or service starring in your video.

The Brief and The Idea

To end this unit, I will teach you how to develop a brief with the client. You will then learn how to generate ideas which fit that briefing.

Script, Shot List, and Mood Board

To begin, I will show you how to write a simple script for your commercial and how to break it down into a shot list.

Preparing Your Set in Style

In this lesson, you will learn about the different aspects that make a video look how it looks: art direction, location, wardrobe, etc.

The Final Image: Shots, Composition, and Light

Next, I will show you some basic concepts about the grammar of the moving image. I will also share useful tips about learning how to compose a shot and how light affects what you see on screen.

Basic Settings: Your Tools

To prepare for the shoot, I will outline the basic gear you will need to film your video.

Introduction to Direction

In this lesson, I will show you two examples of real client videos and discuss some aspects concerning the direction.

Shooting a Commercial for a Beer Brand 1

With your composition arranged and lighting set up, you're ready to film! So, let's start recording the video. Always keep your shot list to hand and refer to it regularly to avoid getting lost.

Shooting a Commercial for a Beer Brand 2

In this lesson, I will continue to work methodically through my shot list. You will see how I direct the different elements to achieve the best outcome.

In this lesson, we will cover the basics of editing. I will model how to operate the app Splice.

Editing Basics

Editing Your Commercial 1

Here, you will watch how I edit the beer commercial step by step, closely following my workflow and mental process.

Editing Your Commercial 2

In this lesson, I will continue bringing together my sounds and visuals to complete the editing stage.

To finish, I will teach you how to add interest to the video using some tricks of the trade and aesthetic choices with the tools available in Splice. You will then see how to export the project.

Final Touches

The Camera on a Mobile Phone

Module 4

See the world through a new lens—your phone’s. With Dan Tom as your guide, you’ll explore how to capture the essence of your travels through thoughtful composition, creative lighting, and perspective. Learn to transform ordinary scenes into powerful visual stories, wherever you are.

19 lessons (4h 10m)

In this lesson, you will learn more about the main tool you're going to record with: your mobile phone. I will explain the lenses available on your iPhone or Android, and the video capabilities. I will also recommend software to download and how to get more from your recordings using these third-party apps.

In this lesson, we will explore the world of mobile filmmaking equipment including gimbals, handheld rigs, and microphones.

Complementary Equipment

19m

Basic Camera Operation 1

Now that you've learnt what tools and software you'll need, it's time to discuss how to use them. Next, you will learn basic camera operating skills. I will explore FiLMiC Pro and how to set up your mobile phone for video recording. I will cover exposure, focus, shutter speed, and colour balance.

In this lesson, I will continue the theme of operating your camera by discussing some basic dos and don'ts. I will finish by distinguishing the four main types of shots.

Basic Camera Operation 2

Improving Your Camera Skills

Here, I will introduce some basics around framing your shots, gimbal tracking shots, shooting an interview, and three-point lighting.

In this lesson, I will explain how to get the best audio on your phone using the built-in microphone and professional external microphones.

Sound 1

Now, I will give you some final tips on how to get reasonable sound in your recordings, moving on to wireless microphones.

Sound 2

Working on Your Concept

In this lesson, I will explain some ways to develop ideas for the story with tips and suggestions on simple methods to help inspire your creative mind.

Writing Your Script

Now let's move on to the part that everybody fears: script writing! You will learn different methods on how to write the story and some insights on script writing.

In this lesson, I will cover the very important aspects of pre-production and the essential paperwork you must have in place.

Production Paperwork

The Shoot

We've now reached my favourite part of the process: the filming. In this lesson, I will model an example of going on location to shoot a short story.

20m

Transferring Your Footage

In this lesson, I will teach you how to transfer your footage from different devices ready for the editing process.

The Editing Process 1

At this point, you should know how to transfer the footage. If so, you're ready to move on to the editing stage. Here, you will learn how to edit your visuals and audio into a structured story.

Now that you've trimmed down your footage and cut the unnecessary parts, it's time to progress to the next step. In this lesson, I will demonstrate how to set up a fluid structure.

The Editing Process 2

Next, I will model how to add visuals that compliment what the subject is saying.

The Editing Process 3

Once you have all your visuals in place, you'll need to consider audio. In this lesson, I'll share some tips on how to approach this.

The Editing Process 4

19m

The Editing Process 5

In this lesson, I will show you how to make the final tweaks to your footage with the app iMovie.

Colour and Export

Here, you will learn the basics of colour correction, as well as using highlights, midtones, and shadows.

To finish, I will discuss film festivals and where best to put your finished film. I will also illustrate how to make a poster using a free third-party app.

How to Share Your Film

Why Is Video Content So Important?

Module 5

Ready to boost your reach with vertical video? Join Arnulfur Hakonarson, also known as That Icelandic Guy, and learn how to create dynamic content using your smartphone. From planning to editing, you’ll master the tools and tricks to craft videos that grab attention and grow your audience.

13 lessons (2h 12m)

Over the last year, creating vertical videos has become an essential skill to know if you want to grow on social media. Why is that? Let’s dive into it!

The Research Process

In this lesson, I will analyze the importance of identifying your niche, researching, and brainstorming your ideas.

Planning and Filming

Now you will learn how to plan and film your vertical videos. Do you even need to plan them at all? What are the pros and cons of doing it? Let’s find out!

Music and Trending Sounds

CapCut: The Basics

In this lesson, you will learn the basics of mobile video editing using CapCut.

Now I will show you how to add transitions and effects using CapCut.

How to Edit a Good Video

Creating and Editing Videos with Apps

In this lesson, I will talk briefly about creating a video from start to finish within the app itself. I will also discuss the pros and cons of this and why this is not my preferred method of creating videos.

The Basics

In this lesson, I will show you how to edit your videos in Adobe Premiere Pro, starting with the basics. Although this software might look intimidating at first, don't panic. I will break down the editing process step by step.

Now it's time to learn how to create and edit vertical videos in Adobe Premiere Pro. Once again, I'm spilling the beans. Here are all my best tips and tricks!

Editing Vertical Videos

Additional Tips for Better Vertical Videos

To end this unit, I will provide a few extra tips and tricks to enhance your videos. This will include advice about exporting settings, adjusting layers, time remapping, fake camera movements, and much more!

In this lesson, I will share some of my favorite DIY video transitions that you can easily do to spice up your videos.

Making Transitions

Now you will learn how to upload the video online and all about the postproduction process.

Uploading the Project

14m

Reviewing the Analytics

Here I will show you how I review my analytics and learn from them to make better-performing videos.

Module 6

Learn how to turn your creative process into compelling visual content. With artist Anna Pepe as your guide, you’ll discover how to film and edit your artwork step by step, using simple tools and minimal budget. Share your artistic journey with authenticity and connect with a wider online audience.

10 lessons (1h 39m)

Creating Content 1

In this lesson, I will share some useful information about showcasing your creative process on social media. We’ll touch upon key issues such as how to define your style, types of video content, and how to structure your videos. To illustrate these points, I will refer to a few successful accounts. You will see their journey from where they started to where they are now.

13m

Creating Content 2

Let's uncover the secret to good content! Here, I will share tips and tricks on how to generate content that will hook and maintain the attention of your viewers.

Basics of Composition and Lighting

In this lesson, I will provide important advice about lighting and composition to create a professional look for your videos and photographs.

How to Develop the Visuals

Next, I will introduce my creative process. You will see how I approach the first steps of the course project, from the conception of the idea to the search for visual references.

Equipment and Materials

In this lesson, I will walk you through the equipment and materials required to capture your footage. You will see that stunning videos can be created with easy-to-find materials and simple gear.

Setting up and Styling the Scene

In this lesson, I will cover how to set up your equipment around your light source for the best results. Then, I will show you how I pick the best props according to the style of the video.

Next, I will demonstrate how to shoot the flat lay scene. Then, you will see how I capture the pictures for social media and experiment with angles to bring an element of dynamism. Time to press the shutter button!

The Flat Lay

A High-Angle Scene

It's time to use a slightly different point of view. In this lesson, I will create a high-angle scene. This is when the camera looks down on the subject from an elevated perspective. This type of shot is great for capturing objects that have more volume.

Editing

Now it’s time to polish the raw video material. In this lesson, I will show you how to adjust color, cut all the unnecessary parts, and consider the audio's structure.

Sharing Your Content on Instagram

To end this unit, I will teach you how to post your final video on social media and get maximum output from every shot.

Module 7

Discover how to make video ads that stop the scroll and spark real connection. Guided by Charlene Tassinari and Carly Potock from Canvas+Co, you’ll learn to plan, shoot, and edit a compelling 15–30 second ad using just your phone—and explore how to amplify it with organic and paid tactics that get results.

12 lessons (1h 7m)

Why Video Ads Matter

Each one of us likely watches some form of video every day. We’re no strangers to the appeal of sight, sound, and motion. In this lesson, we’ll talk about why video is an essential tool for every business to have.

Common Types of Videos

In this lesson, we’ll show you the types of videos that could be beneficial for your business to have. Think of this as a toolkit you can create if and when it makes sense to you.

Organic vs. Paid Video

Businesses can post videos on their social media accounts at no cost, or they can choose to pay to promote their videos. In other words, to advertise with them. This lesson will explain the difference between organic and paid strategies and why paying is critical to business growth.

Who Are You Trying to Reach?

The first step in the creative process is identifying who you are trying to reach. The answer should never be everyone or anyone.

What Do You Want Them to Do?

The second step in the creative process is determining the action you want someone to take once they see your ad. In other words, what you want them to do. Don’t assume people know what to do next; we always recommend telling them.

Where Will You Reach Them?

Next, we’ll help you decide where to put your video ad based on the combination of who you are trying to reach and what action you want them to take.

Messaging Strategy and Storyboard

Here, we’ll create the storyboard for your short video ad. This means defining what you’ll say and how you’ll say it.

Now that we’ve created the storyboard for the ad, it’s time to film it. In this lesson, we’ll show you the tools you’ll need for selfie style videos.

Selfie Style Ads

Product Style Ads

In this lesson, we’ll show you the tools you’ll need for product style video ads.

Editing Your Video Ads

Now that we’ve filmed your video, we’ll show you how to make edits like adding music and text easily.

One of the easiest ways to promote your ad is to “boost it.” We’ll show you what this means and how to do it on Instagram and TikTok.

Boosted Posts