Write, Film, & Edit a Movie! Filmmaking, Video Editing, & Media Production Class
Explore the world of filmmaking! Learners will create a 1-2 minute short film, exploring all aspects of writing, camera techniques, directing & editing. Perfect for budding storytellers, future filmmakers, and aspiring YouTubers!
What's included
6 live meetings
6 in-class hoursProjects
1 hour per week. Each student will create their own 1-2 minute short film based on a specific challenge to be revealed the day of the workshop. The film must feature a character, include an action, and incorporate a prop. There will be no dialogue, encouraging students to tell their story visually through non-verbal acting, cinematography, and creative use of sound. Story development will be completed in class, however, filming will be required outside of class. Students should be ready to bring their footage on Week 4 for editing.Certificate of Completion
includedClass Experience
US Grade 5 - 8
Beginner Level
Make a movie in just 6 weeks! In this engaging, hands-on filmmaking workshop, students will learn the essential elements of creating their own short films. This class is designed for kids and teens who are eager to explore the world of filmmaking and storytelling. Over the course of 6 weels, students will develop their creative ideas, shoot a 1-2 minute film, and edit their project into a finished film ready for a final screening. My teaching style is interactive and hands-on, allowing students to learn by doing. They’ll have opportunities to ask questions, collaborate with peers, and receive individualized feedback throughout the workshop. There are no prerequisites or prior experience required for this class. All skill levels are welcome. The pacing of the class is designed to be manageable yet engaging, with plenty of time for hands-on practice and personalized guidance.
Learning Goals
Create a short film using foundational filmmaking techniques
Apply basic cinematography principles
Syllabus
6 Lessons
over 6 WeeksLesson 1:
Five Elements of Film & Story Structure
Discover the building blocks of film—story, character, setting, theme, and conflict. Learn how to craft a strong story structure to set the foundation for your film project.
60 mins online live lesson
Lesson 2:
Cinematography
Explore the art of visual storytelling! Learn basic camera techniques, framing, angles, and lighting to create dynamic and visually engaging shots
60 mins online live lesson
Lesson 3:
Story Development and Shot Lists
Bring your story to life! Develop your film idea, outline key scenes, and create a shot list to plan your production step by step.
60 mins online live lesson
Lesson 4:
Intro to iMovie
Dive into the basics of video editing with iMovie. Learn how to import footage, arrange clips, add transitions, and create a polished project.
60 mins online live lesson
Other Details
Learning Needs
This workshop 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 short film clips in class, all rated PG. These clips will be screened via screen share, so students won’t need access to YouTube.
Pre-Requisites
No prior experience or prerequisites are required for this workshop. Learners of all skill levels are welcome to join and learn the basics of filmmaking.
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
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
$20
weekly1x per week, 6 weeks
60 min
Live video meetings
Ages: 9-13
6-12 learners per class