Direct a Music Video: Pre-Teen Filmmaking Class Inspired by Pop Stars (8 Weeks)
Digital filmmaking class for pre-teens to learn how to direct, film, and edit their own music videos. Students will explore storytelling, writing, cinematography, and video editing skills inspired by their favorite songs and artists.
New on Outschool
What's included
8 live meetings
8 in-class hoursAssignments
1 hour per week. Students will create their very own music video and will be tasked with filming outside of class time.Assessment
Constructive feedback will be provided to students on how to improve their work.Class Experience
US Grade 5 - 8
Beginner Level
🎬 Is your child bursting with creative energy and dreams of making their own music video? 🎶 In this fun, hands-on filmmaking class, your child will learn how to direct, shoot, and edit their very own music video, all while exploring the creative process behind some of their favorite pop stars and musical artists. Throughout the course, students will learn the secrets behind the making of a music video, starting with how to come up with a concept that matches their favorite song. They’ll dive into storyboarding, camera techniques, lighting, editing, and how to make every shot feel like it belongs in a real music video. By the end of the course, they’ll know how to create a video that not only matches the rhythm of a song but tells a compelling visual story. This class is perfect to help your child learn new digital media skills, express their creativity, and see their ideas come to life on screen. The best part? They’ll walk away with a complete music video they can be proud of!
Learning Goals
To learn how to brainstorm and develop a concept for their music video, transforming an idea into a visual story.To gain an understanding of basic directing techniques, camera angles, and framing
Syllabus
8 Lessons
over 8 WeeksLesson 1:
Exploring the Art of Music Videos
Students will learn what makes a music video captivating and explore various styles, from narrative to abstract. We'll brainstorm ideas for their projects, inspired by their favorite songs, and discuss the steps to bring their vision to life. 60 mins online live lesson
Lesson 2:
Storyboarding and Pre-Production
Students will develop a storyboard for their music video, mapping out key scenes and visuals. We'll cover planning techniques, shot composition, and the importance of pre-production for a smooth filming process. 60 mins online live lesson
Lesson 3:
Directing and Camera Techniques
This week focuses on directing and capturing dynamic footage. Students will learn about camera angles, movement, and lighting techniques to elevate the visual quality of their videos. They'll practice filming short scenes. 60 mins online live lesson
Lesson 4:
Production Design: Sets, Props, and Costumes
Students will learn how to use simple props, backdrops, and costumes to create a cohesive look for their music videos. We’ll explore creative solutions to make their sets visually engaging, even on a budget. 60 mins online live lesson
Other Details
Learning Needs
Class is designed to support students with unique learning needs, including ADHD, Dyslexia, and ASD, by offering step-by-step instruction and a flexible, engaging environment.
Parental Guidance
In this course, students may need help with filming their projects outside of class time. They will be using a mobile recording device, such as an iPhone or iPad, to film and edit, and may need assistance with devices they don't own.
We will also be using editing applications like iMovie or Adobe Rush, and students may need help installing these apps or confirming they work on their devices.
Please ensure that students have a safe space to film and that the required editing applications are set up before class begins.
We will be watching music video clips in class, all rated PG. These clips will be screened via screen share, so students won’t need access to YouTube.
Please note that students will need to choose a song for their music video with age-appropriate lyrics. Parental guidance in selecting a song is strongly encouraged to ensure a positive and suitable experience for all classroom participants.
Pre-Requisites
No prior experience or prerequisites are required. Learners of all skill levels are welcome to join.
Supply List
To complete the class, students will need the following materials: - A laptop or device with internet access - A recording device (iPhone, iPad, or camera) - Editing software (free options: iMovie or Adobe Rush) - A space to film their project - Props to use in their film (these can be simple household items) - An actor (a friend, or family member) Please ensure that all necessary apps (iMovie or Adobe Rush) are installed and working on your child's device before the first session.
External Resources
In addition to the Outschool classroom, this class uses:
Sources
In addition to the Outschool classroom, this class uses:
- Google Drive
- Video recording device (iPhone, iPad, Camera, etc.)
- iMovie or Adobe Rush
Joined November, 2024
New on Outschool
Teacher expertise and credentials
2 Degrees
Master's Degree in Film/Cinema/Video Studies from Columbia University
Bachelor's Degree in Film/Cinema/Video Studies from Grand Valley State University
I received an MFA in Creative Producing from Columbia University, along with a BA in Film & Video from Grand Valley State University. Over the years, I’ve taught filmmaking, screenwriting, and media production across various settings, including New York Film Academy, Columbia University, and private tutoring. My teaching experience spans middle school to university-level students, with a focus on hands-on learning, project-based instruction, and creative mentorship. Reviews
Live Group Course
$25
weekly or $200 for 8 classes1x per week, 8 weeks
60 min
Live video meetings
Ages: 11-14
6-10 learners per class
Financial Assistance
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