> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://scaproduction.depaul.edu/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://scaproduction.depaul.edu/welcome-and-getting-started.md).

# Welcome & Getting Started

We're glad you're here! This Production Guide is your go-to resource for making films at DePaul's School of Cinematic Arts.

Here you'll find information about equipment, stages, filming locations, safety, paperwork, insurance, and production policies. Whether you're working on a class project, thesis film, or independent production, this guide is designed to help you navigate the filmmaking process at SCA.

Filmmaking at SCA is built on collaboration, professionalism, and respect. We ask all students to help maintain a safe, inclusive, and supportive community while taking care of our shared facilities, equipment, and creative spaces.

#### Quick Links

* [**Starting a New Project**](/starting-a-new-project.md)
* [**SCA Production Office**](/production-resources-and-support.md#the-sca-production-office)
* [**Patron Portal**](https://cdmwebcheckout.cdm.depaul.edu/sso/patron#!/)
* [**Equipment Centers & Stages**](/equipment-and-facilities.md)
* [**SCA Production Training**](/hidden-pages/sca-production-training.md)
* [**SCA Central**](https://d2l.depaul.edu/d2l/home/653204)
* [**Safety Hotline**](/report-a-concern-safety-hotline.md)

***

### Before You Begin

Before participating in any SCA production, make sure you:

* Complete the annual [**SCA Production Training**](https://nam10.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fd2l.depaul.edu%2Fd2l%2Fhome%2F1115817\&data=05%7C02%7CVROSALE5%40depaul.edu%7Cea02deab4da9439a3ded08ddef158959%7C750d3a3f1f464da28a647605e75ea2f9%7C0%7C0%7C638929597948890580%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C\&sdata=xfNHtJAqTJWAP3RHSr9QjhCwsmupu6qfHfTbOugGunA%3D\&reserved=0) in D2L.
* Bookmark [**SCA Central in D2L**](https://d2l.depaul.edu/d2l/home/653204)**.**
* Review the [**Starting a New Project** ](/starting-a-new-project.md)section of this guide.
* Submit the annual SCA [**Student General Release Form**](https://app.smartsheet.com/b/form/addbb6b83ff3408fbddd17d78f2480ed)**.**

***

### What Is SCA Central?

SCA Central is your hub for production paperwork, announcements, crew calls, training materials, equipment information, and other important filmmaking resources.

If you are enrolled in SCA but do not see SCA Central or SCA Production Training in D2L, please contact Sandy Gordon at <s.gordon@depaul.edu> or the Help Desk at <helpdesk@depaul.edu>.

***

#### Latest Updates

Visit the sections below for:

* **Newsletters & Announcements**
* [**Closures & Holiday Schedules**](/closures-and-holiday-schedule.md)
* [**Policy Changes & Updates**](/current-policies-and-updates.md)

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