Digital Media Capstone Project
2 credits
DIG 259: Digital Media Capstone Project
A portfolio project for Digital Media majors
The Digital Media capstone project is a complete client experience in video and animation, from concept to the final presentation of a series of client pieces. Students work closely with the department head using a full project brief to a propose a character design, storyboard media concepts, and develop full animation and video for the client. The project is executed in three stages with feedback and discussion at each stage. Students are expected to discuss, present, and critique their work with the highest level of professionalism, and implement research strategies that contribute to the overall finished project.
Course At A Glance
Course Features
- 100% online
- Project-based
- Instructor-led
- Credit-bearing: 2 Credits
- Classes start January, April, and August
Instructor(s)
The course is taught by the following instructor(s):
This course is only available to students enrolled in Associate Degree or BFA programs.
Course Projects
Stage One
You will present, for initial feedback, your research and concept for a mascot, including a 2D image of the mascot and a mockup of your client's home page featuring the mascot. You will also present a storyboard and concept for your commercial.
Stage Two
After you have your character concept and rough commercial storyboard, you will start building and compiling a package of assets for your commercial. At least one asset—but not the character itself—will be a 3D element built in Maya. You will present this package of assets along with a rough draft of the character animation in the commercial for the second round of feedback.
Stage Three
In the final stage, you will complete all shooting, animation, and compositing and present a final draft of your full commercial. You will use Adobe After Effects for your final editing. You are expected to present your final work professionally and write a presentation that details your thought process and design techniques.
Sample Student Work
For sample work, visit student gallery
Course Outcomes
What Are The Course Projects?
This multi-faceted portfolio project includes development and promotion of an multimedia character used to promote a brand in a 30 second commercial.
What Software or Supplies Do I Need?
- Computer with Internet connection (broadband recommended).
- Depending on your choice of project, Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, After Effects, Animate and Autodesk Maya.
- Experience in the above software or equivalent programs.
- An account with an ad-free Web hosting service.
What Will I Learn?
Students in this course can expect to learn to:
- Research design concepts for a digital technology client.
- Present research into relevant inspirational or competitive Web sites as references along with a written analysis and explanation of how they will contribute to your concept.
- Develop and present initial sketches and 2D images for your project, as well as a home page wireframe.
- Develop and present a written concept and storyboard for a 30 second commercial.
- Prepare thumbnails for an animation and create an animation environment and associated assets for use in a 30 second commercial.
- Prepare a simple animated 3D asset for integration in a 30 second commercial that demonstrates proficiency in texturing, lighting, and animating 3D models.
- Shoot and edit live footage for use in a 30 second commercial that demonstrates proficiency in scene framing, shot types, camera movements, pacing, transitions, and rhythm.
- Demonstrate the ability to composite all animation, footage, and assets in an After Effects workspace.
- Prepare and optimize a complete final 30 second commercial representing a good understanding of the design goals in creating a promotional short.
- Deliver a written presentation of an entire project that demonstrates critical thinking ability, professional project presentation skills, and the ability to develop/explain your creative process.
- Create a complete project that exhibits a competence in using a professional design process for digital media including competitive research, thumbnails and storyboards, 3D assets, animation, shot and edited live action footage, and composited final footage.
Getting Started
Course Registration
- Classes start January, April, and August
- 2 Credit Course
- Project-Based: Exercises, Discussions, and Critiques
Registration fees are nonrefundable after 5 days from enrollment. All tuition includes a digital materials fee for course content.
Click Register Now to enter your information and desired start date. An Admissions Advisor will contact you to arrange payment and provide you with an Enrollment Agreement.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What Are The Courses Like?
Our courses are project-based. In each course you’ll enjoy a series of lectures, projects, discussions, and critiques designed to stretch your creative skills, earning college credit for your completed course.
How Much Time Do I Need?
Classes start January, April, and August, and this course can be completed in a 15-week term. College credit from this course can be applied to a range of degree and certificate level programs at Sessions College.
Who Are The Instructors?
Our courses are developed and taught by our faculty of professional artists, designers, and photographers. This means that you’ll learn in-demand skills, get feedback on your work, and build a portfolio of creative work.
Is Sessions College accredited?
Yes. Since 2001, Sessions College has been accredited by the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC). The Distance Education Accrediting Commission is listed by the U.S. Department of Education as a recognized accrediting agency and is recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA).