MFA Thesis Paperwork 2022-2023 Header Image

1. Student Information

Name*
Program*
Review date*
Please provide a synopsis of your thesis (minimum 75 words, 250 words expected).

2. Post Production Questionnaire

While completing this questionnaire is required, the purpose of this questionnaire is to get you thinking about the post‐production process. Your answers to these questions may change as your thesis develops.  

If you have questions about this form, please contact Paul Kyle: pkyle@calarts.edu.

Project type*
Check all that apply

Please Note!

Backups

Please check with faculty and staff if you are unsure of safe backup protocol. Before beginning to work on your thesis, please be sure to budget for a production and AT LEAST one backup hard drive. Before buying, we encourage you to consult with faculty or staff regarding specifications.  


Post Production Facilities  

School of Film/Video access protocol to Digital Editing & Post Edit Suites requires you pass the required first semester editing class or prove basic proficiency to Digital Editing & Post Faculty/Staff. If you meet the requirements and have yet to use to the Digital Editing and Post Edit Suites, contact Paul Kyle  (pkyle@calarts.edu).  

Will you be using the Digital Editing and Post Facilities in the sublevel? *
Will any part of your project be done using a home workstation?*
(e.g. 27” iMac, 2017)
(e.g. ATI Radeon HD 4850)
(e.g. 8 GB)
OS (e.g Mac OS 10.12)
(e.g. Final Cut Pro X 10.2 )

Digital Production & Editing  

There are many cameras, resolutions, and file formats available to students within and outside of the  School’s resources and support. The student is responsible for understanding how the choice of cameras and capture settings impacts post production workflows. We encourage you to consult with Faculty and Staff BEFORE you shoot if you do not have sufficient experience or knowledge with the required workflow to complete your projects independently.  

Using Head and Tail Leader is an important part of the Post Production process. See the “Using Standard Leader” article on 2 Pop Support. If unfamiliar, please talk with Faculty/Staff about the proper use of Head and Tail Leader.  

(e.g. 1080p)
(e.g. 23.98fps)
(e.g.H.264, ProRes, REDRAW)

Video Editing Platform (NLE)

What software will you use to edit picture? *
Will there be VFX (visual effects) made outside of your NLE? *
Will there be subtitles made outside of your NLE? *
Will you be doing color correction/grading outside of your NLE?*
Film Production and Editing: Select One
Do you plan to do a negative cut of your film?*
If yes, are you using a FLEX file? *
Will this FLEX file be used to create a cutlist while at CalArts? *
Select one:*

Please note!  

If you plan on shooting film and finishing on film, please consult with Nora Sweeney (nsweeney@calarts.edu) or Gordon Kurowski (gkurowsk@calarts.edu) before scheduling your telecine or film scan.  

Will you be shooting film and finishing digitally? *
Do you plan to use Film/Video film scanning services?*

Sound Recording

Is there Sync Sound? *
Single‐system sound (recorded directly to camera)? *
Double-System*
Did you use a time‐code slate (smart slate)? *

Specifications of your Source Audio Files

Sample rate*
Bit depth*

Please note!  

If your audio sample rate is not compatible with your digital post‐production frame rate, please consult with FVSound (fvsound@calarts.edu).  


Audio Mix  

Are you planning to have a mix done? *
Will this mix be done at CalArts? *
What system will you use to prepare your sound for mixing? *
Do you know how to make an AAF/OMF and a QuickTime Movie file for a Pro Tools session from your project’s editing software? *

Final Color Grading, Layback, & Delivery  

Are you planning to use a different software than your NLE to Color Grade? *
Do you know how to use this software? *

Audio Laybacks  

Once your sound mix and final picture is finished you're ready for a layback. The layback is the  final step in the post‐production process wherein the final sound mix is married with final picture.  

You need to deliver your final color corrected video output without audio to the Sound  Transfer Room (E104). Your video should be a full quality final export with titles, standard head leader,  color correction, and must be silent. Either drop off your file in person to the Sound Transfer Room  (E104) during operating hours or upload your file to the Submissions folder on FVCentral.  

Once the layback process is completed, FVSound will provide you with a folder containing all  the necessary files for: file‐based exhibition (5.1), internet streaming (Internet Only), DVD/Blu‐ray  (5.1), and a FCPX library from which to create your own custom output files.  

There is no fee for laybacks. For Final Output and Audio Layback please contact FVSound  (fvsound@calarts.edu)  


Do you know how to export a ProRes 422 (HQ) Screening Master file as specified in the School of Film/Video House Codec (included at the end of this section)?*

Internet version

An Internet version will be provided to you with your layback. If you need further assistance with creating a master file or publishing to the Internet, please consult with faculty and staff.  

DCP  

DCP is a highly mastered format that ensures consistent playback across venues. Please do not attempt a DCP for delivery without consultation.  

If planning to make a DCP, please consult with Gordon Kurowski (gkurowsk@calarts.edu) or Paul Kyle  (pkyle@calarts.edu)  

Are you planning to make a DCP of your final project? *
Film: Final Delivery (Select One)

House Codec and File Naming Conventions

Click here to download the School of Film/Video House Codec and File Naming Conventions.  

3. Project Assessment Checklist

If you have questions about this form, contact Justin Hogan (justinhogan@calarts.edu).

Does your project have any special effects, including special effects make-up? *
Will you be filming off-campus?*
Will you be renting any camera/grip/lighting equipment from off-campus? *
Will you be using non-CalArts students as actors or crew?*
Will you be filming minors? (anyone under the age of 18) *
Will there be stunts? (slaps, kicks, punches, falls, etc.) *
Will you be using prop guns or prop weapons? (including clubs, knives, etc.) *
Will you be using motor vehicles in your film or video? (including your own)*
Will you be using animals in your project? (including your own pet)*