Monday, June 7 – Friday, July 30, 2021 | Ages 9 – 18
Both virtual and limited in-person camp class sessions available!
Join us for a summer of creativity, collaboration, and fun during our 19th annual Summer Film Program. We offer hands-on, one-week camp classes and workshops in the arts of screenwriting, filmmaking, editing, video game writing and more starting Monday June 7th – Friday, July 30th! Open to young creatives ages 9 – 18!
Surround your young writer or filmmaker (ages 9-18) with like-minded collaborators as they are guided by professional instructors who help ignite their creativity, inspiration, and learn essential screenwriting, filmmaking and editing skills.
Very limited in-person registrations available! No more than 10 students per in-person camp or class session.
In-Person Camp Classes: Ages 9 - 12
FILMMAKING 101
$215 (AFF Members/Summer Film Camp Alumni: $190)
This session introduces young creatives to the thrill and challenge of filmmaking. Campers learn basic filmmaking skills then team up with their peers to make their very own short films using provided equipment. With the wide variety of available shooting locations at First Baptist Church of Austin, campers can truly bring their stories to life in this class. At the end of the week, campers will receive a DVD and link to their work. No previous filmmaking to video editing experience is required.
Sessions:
Monday, June 14 – Friday, June 18 9:00 am – 12:30 pm
Monday, June 21 – Friday, June 25 9:00 am – 12:30 pm
Monday, June 28 – Friday, July 2 9:00 am – 12:30 pm
Monday, July 12 – Friday, July 16 9:00 am – 12:30 pm
Monday, July 19 – Friday, July 23 9:00 am – 12:30 pm
Monday, July 26 – Friday, July 30 9:00 am – 12:30 pm
Only 10 registration spots are available for each session.
$215Select options
FULL-DAY FILMMAKING 101
$330 (AFF Members/Summer Film Camp Alumni: $300)
Join us for an accelerated 4-day Filmmaking 101 class at a discounted price!
Available Session:
Tuesday, July 6 – Friday, July 9 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
Please note: this is a 4-day camp only.
Only 10 registration spots are available for this session.
$330Select options
CLAYMATION CREATIONS
$215 (AFF Members/Summer Film Camp Alumni: $190)
Claymation Creations introduces campers to the exciting world of stop-motion animation. Using cameras, clay, and basic software applications, campers learn to tell stories frame-by-frame. To complete each stage of production, campers work in collaborative groups to design storyboards, build worlds out of clay, and edit their films. This class includes a mix of classroom and lab time. Campers receive a link to their claymation projects after each week. No previous animation or video editing experience is required. At the end of the week, campers will receive a DVD and link to their work.
Available Sessions:
Monday, June 14 – Friday, June 18 1:30 pm – 4:00 pm
Monday, June 21 – Friday, June 25 1:30 pm – 4:00 pm
Monday, June 28 – Friday, July 2 1:30 pm – 4:00 pm
Monday, July 12 – Friday, July 16 1:30 pm – 4:00 pm
Monday, July 19 – Friday, July 23 1:30 am – 4:00 pm
Monday, July 26 – Friday, July 30 1:30 pm – 4:00 pm
Only 10 registration spots are available for each session.
$215Select options
FULL-DAY COMBO CAMP (FILMMAKING 101 + CLAYMATION CREATIONS)
$390 (AFF Members/Summer Film Camp Alumni: $340)
A combination of the two half-day camps listed below, at a discounted price. For the overall filmmaking experience, these week-long sessions can’t be beat! In between classes, campers will have a supervised hour to eat lunch, participate in guided activities, and watch movies. As with all sessions, campers are given the chance to work together to make their very own films, and receive a link of their work at the end of camp.
Sessions:
Monday, June 14 – Friday, June 18 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
Monday, June 21 – Friday, June 25 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
Monday, June 28 – Friday, July 2 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
Monday, July 12 – Friday, July 16 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
Monday, July 19 – Friday, July 23 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
Monday, July 26 – Friday, July 30 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
Only 10 registration spots are available for each session.
$390Select options
In-Person Teen Filmmaking Workshops: Ages 13 - 18
SCRIPT TO SCREEN
$410 (AFF Members/Summer Film Camp Alumni: $365)
This workshop is for teens who want to learn how to make their very own narrative-driven short films. Campers will discover the power of storytelling and transform their ideas into proper screenplays before creating fully-realized short films of their own. Over the course of this class, students will learn the fundamentals of screenwriting, directing, cinematography, sound design, and editing.
Available Sessions:
Monday, June 7 – Friday, June 18* 1:00 pm – 5:00 pm
*no classes Saturday or Sunday
Monday, June 28 – Friday, July 2 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
Monday, July 12 – Friday, July 16 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
Monday, July 19 – Friday, July 23 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
Monday, July 26 – Friday, July 30 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
Only 10 registration spots are available for each session.
$410Select options
FOUR-DAY SCRIPT TO SCREEN
$375 (AFF Members/Summer Film Camp Alumni: $335)
This workshop is for teens who want to learn how to make their very own narrative-driven short films. Campers will discover the power of storytelling and transform their ideas into proper screenplays before creating fully-realized short films of their own. Over the course of this class, students will learn the fundamentals of screenwriting, directing, cinematography, sound design, and editing.
Available Session:
Tuesday, July 6 – Friday, July 9 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
Only 10 registration spots are available for this session.
Please note: this is a 4-day camp only.
$375Select options
Virtual Camp Classes: Ages 10 - 13
SMARTPHONE FILMMAKING 101
$125 (AFF Members/Summer Film Camp Alumni: $115)
Designed for the young filmmaker stuck at home, students will learn what makes a compelling image as well as the basics of filmmaking and editing on a smartphone. Think remote learning meets Summer Film Camp. Classes will be held on Zoom Video Conferencing instructed by local filmmakers and arts educators who will provide hands-on projects to take your student’s home video to the next level.
Available Sessions:
Monday, June 7 – Friday, June 11 11:00 am – 12:30 pm CT
Monday, June 21 – Friday, June 25 11:00 am – 12:30 pm CT
Only 10 registration spots are available for each session.
SMARTPHONE FILMMAKING: DOCUMENTARY SHORTS
$125 (AFF Members/Summer Film Camp Alumni: $115)
In this specialty virtual camp class, students will explore the art of documentary filmmaking! Learning the ins and outs of how to capture real-life moments and how translate those shots into a true story, campers will walk away with a complete mini-documentary. From concept to post-production, students will be guided by the instructor and receive personal feedback on their documentary short.
Available Session:
Monday, June 14 – Friday, June 18 11:00 am – 12:30 pm CT
Only 10 registration spots are available for this session.
$125Select options
Virtual Teen Filmmaking Workshops: Ages 13 - 18
WRITING FOR VIDEO GAMES
$180 (AFF Members/Summer Film Camp Alumni: $170)
To write a video game is to imagine and bring to life an immersive world. Perhaps you don’t notice it while you’re playing, but video games are all about story. Join us for an introductory course on video game writing, world-building, and the fundamentals of Twine – an easy-to-use software for interactive fiction. Students will develop their own video game concept and learn how to translate that concept to a script.
Available Session:
Monday, June 14 – Friday, June 18 2:oopm – 4:00pm CT
Only 10 registration spots are available for this session.
$180Select options
Additional Virtual Camps and Workshops Coming Soon!
SUMMER FILM PROGRAM FAQ
SAFETY PROTOCOL?
Austin Film Festival is committed to keeping its students safe and will be following and implementing all appropriate safety measures in regards to COVID-19 this summer. We plan to follow recommended guidelines from both the CDC and American Camp Association.
At this time, in-person registration is limited to only ten-students per class. Additional slots may become available depending on safety guidelines.
WHAT CAN I EXPECT?
Led by professional filmmakers, all AFF Summer Film Program students walk away with a finished project whether it be a short film, script, or even an interactive game! Furthermore, students have the unique opportunity to see their films on the big screen (and walk the red carpet!) at the annual Summer Film Showcase. Students also participate in inspirational panel discussions with visiting guest speakers, who in the past have included industry luminaries such as Pamela Ribon (writer Moana) James V. Hart (writer Hook), Rita Hsiao (writer Toy Story 2), Robert Mark Kamen (writer The Karate Kid), Justin Marks (writer The Jungle Book), and Caroline Thompson (writer The Nightmare Before Christmas).
WHAT ARE THE DATES FOR THE 2021 SUMMER FILM PROGRAM?
Both in-person and virtual camp classes begin June 7th and run through July 30th (in one-week sessions).
WHO TEACHES THE CAMP CLASSES AND TEEN FILM WORKSHOPS?
At Austin Film Festival’s Summer Film Program, we want students to make the best films they can. That’s why our professional instructors are hand-chosen to lead students through every part of the filmmaking process, from conception through final product. Both virtual and in-person instructors have backgrounds in both arts education and filmmaking so they can give students the guidance and support they need to truly shine.
WHERE IS THE 2021 SUMMER FILM PROGRAM HELD?
In-person camp classes and workshops will take place at First Baptist Church located at 901 Trinity St. Austin, TX 78701. First Baptist is centrally located with easy pick-up and drop-off options.
Virtual Summer Camp classes and workshops will be held via Zoom Video Conference.
WHY SUMMER FILM CAMP?
At AFF’s Summer Film Program (both virtual and in-person), we focus on two things: storytelling and collaboration. We believe that for any budding artist, these two things are of utmost importance. Storytelling allows students to express themselves, while giving them a vehicle through which to practice their developing filmmaking skills (be it directing, camera operating, sound recording, or editing). Collaboration is a challenging but necessary aspect of filmmaking, since every production is made up of many crew members playing different, but equally important, roles.
BENEFIT OF TEEN FILMMAKING WORKSHOPS?
Perfect for older students looking ahead to college admissions these week-long sessions are a great addition to a young creative’s resume or portfolio. All students will walk away with an advanced understanding of screenwriting and a finished short film. Students will experience all essential aspects of the filmmaking process from first-draft, to being on set, through editing to help both brooding and deepen student’s interest in screenwriting and film.
Questions?
If you have any questions or would like more information about in person or virtual camp classes, please contact Sally Seitz, our Young Filmmakers Program Director at yfpdirector@austinfilmfestival.com or call 512-478-4795.
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2021 SUMMER CAMP REFUND POLICY
UPDATED REFUND POLICY – SUMMER 2021
Austin Film Festival has adjusted our refund policy regarding both our in person and virtual Film Programs for the Summer of 2021.
- If you purchased an in-person Summer Film Camp or Workshop for 2021, a refund of 80% of class tuition is offered only with written notice, which may be received by by email to refunds@austinfilmfestival.com and yfpdirector@austinfilmfestival.com from the parent or legal guardian of an enrolled student received no later than Friday, April 30th, 2021. After this date, all purchases are final and will not be refunded.
- Students who cannot attend camp due to pandemic exposure will have the option to switch to a different in-person camp session or virtual camp session at no cost, camp capacity/space permitted. The difference in class price from an in-person camp to a virtual camp is non-refundable and will be considered a donation to the Young Filmmakers Program.
- All purchases of Austin Film Festival’s Virtual Camps or Workshops are nonrefundable.
- Please note that in the event that Austin Film Festival must cancel a camp or workshop session, a full refund will be honored to all those who have purchased. This policy applies to both virtual and in person camps.
- Special events may require purchase of separate ticket for entry. If you have any questions about the Festival, your membership or badge purchase, please contact info@austinfilmfestival.com or call 1-800-FEST (3378).
BECOME AN AFF MEMBER AND SAVE ON CAMP!
Join AFF for a year’s worth of exclusive advanced screenings, film premieres, script readings, roundtable events, Conversations in Film, party invitations, and more. Purchase your membership and receive discounts on Summer Film Camp!
$36 – $1,200options
Call our office at 512-478-4795 to get the Member promotion code for your Summer Film Camp purchase!
Scholarships
Our hands-on Summer Film Camp fills up fast. And because we like to make sure every kid has a chance to attend, we hold a bunch of tuition scholarships in reserve. These scholarships are available on a financial-need basis. Film is for everybody. Camp should be too.
Complete online form below.
Guest Speakers
Summer Film Camp’s Guest Speaker Series features Hollywood veterans, rising stars, and Austin filmmakers. 2021 Speakers have not yet been announced, but take a look at our 2019 Guest speakers:
John Langmore, Photographer and Film Director/Writer
John Langmore’s relationship with the working cowboy traces back to his great-grandfather who was one of Colonel Teddy Roosevelt’s original Rough Riders. His father, Bank Langmore, published The Cowboy in 1975 and is considered one of the pioneers of contemporary western photography.
Beginning at the age of twelve, John spent twelve summers cowboying on some of the country’s largest ranches before becoming a lawyer. John quit the legal profession to pursue his passion for photography and last year authored Open Range – America’s Big-Outfit Cowboy, published by Twin Palms. He is also the co-director on the recently completed feature-length documentary film, Cowboys – a documentary portrait. John’s photography has been widely published and exhibited, including an exhibition together with his father’s work at the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum.
Jason Neulander, Writer, Director, and Producer
Jason Neulander is a writer, director, and producer based in Austin, Texas. Neulander received his BA and MA in theater from Brown University. He founded and was the artistic director of Austin’s Salvage Vanguard Theater from 1994 to 2008. Over his tenure he directed and produced more than 50 world-premiere plays, musicals, and operas. His play THE INTERGALACTIC NEMESIS (2010), which he wrote, directed, and produced, toured to more than 200 venues around the world, including runs on Broadway and sold-out performances at the Kennedy Center, and was adapted for television by PBS. His first short film HIT & RUN (2015) was selected for the Texas Filmmakers Showcase. His second short Buttercup (2016) was broadcast nationally on PBS’s “On Story”. His feature film debut Fugitive Dreams is currently in post-production. “A seemingly inexhaustible ability to surprise. And thrill. And horrify. And amuse. And intrigue.” — The Austin Chronicle
Here’s a sampling of other past guests:
Dave Reynolds
Dave Reynolds is an award-winning screenwriter best known for Finding Nemo, The Emperor’s New Groove, and A Bug’s Life.
Mighty Coconut
Mighty Coconut is an Austin-based content studio specializing in animation, visual effects, and interactive. The studio will be represented by Carrye Glazar, Mighty Coconut’s Head of Original Content, and Tim Cunningham, Director & Executive Producer. Read more about the team and their award-winning work here.
Ernest Cline
Austin-based screenwriter and novelist Ernie Cline has been writing for the last twenty years, including the films Fanboys and Thundercade.
Cindy McCreery
Cindy McCreery has sold feature projects to New Line Cinema, Walt Disney Studios, Paramount Pictures, Nickelodeon, Disney Channel, National Geographic Films, Warner Brothers, Lionsgate and MGM! She most recently co-wrote two episodes of the SyFy Channel Show, Haven, that aired in the fall of 2014.
Robert Mark Kamen
Kamen is a well-renowned writer and producer who has been creating major motion pictures for over twenty-five years! He is best known for his film franchises The Karate Kid, Taken, and Transporter.
Tom Schulman
Schulman re-wrote Honey, I Shrunk the Kids and turned it from a drama to a comedy in just seven days. He is best known for his Academy Award winning screenplay Dead Poets Society.
In-Person Camp FAQ
Where is summer camp held this year?
Summer camp will be held at First Baptist Church of Austin, located downtown at 901 Trinity St. Austin, TX 78701.
Can I drop off my child early?
Yes, you can drop off your child up to 30 minutes early.
How do I drop-off/pick up my child?
Summer Film Camp has a hassle-free drop-off and pick-up system so you don’t actually have to park. All students will need to check-in with AFF staff/volunteers at the drop off loop located at the side of the church. A valid driver’s license or state issued ID card is required for all pick-ups from either the parent or authorized person.
How late can I pick up my child?
Parents (or authorized persons) arriving later than 30 minutes after the completion of a class section will incur a late fee of $10 and an additional $1 per minute if later than 45 minutes after the completion of a class.
What if my child has a license?
Students who are 16-18 years old with a valid driver’s license and vehicle are not required to wait for parents to sign them out but must sign themselves out before leaving the church grounds.
What should my child bring to camp?
- Snacks are provided during camp, but if your child requires specific food/beverages, you must provide them
- Lunch if your child is attending a full day camp
- Water bottle (we will provide small water bottles for each child. There are also plenty of water fountains located around the school)
- Sweatshirt or long sleeve shirt (classrooms can get cold)
- Pencil and paper (for brainstorming and taking notes)
What should my child expect at camp?
- High quality instruction from accomplished local professionals
- A DVD of completed projects (must opt in to receive DVD)
- An AFF Summer Film Camp T-Shirt
- A free screening of all completed camp projects at a local theater
- Your child feeling excited about learning and making a movie!
Will my child have a chance to show their movie?
Our Summer Film Camp Showcase (a free screening of all completed camp projects) will be programmed at the end of the summer – typically the first week in August. Date/Time for 2020 is currently TBA.
***Parents will receive an email closer to this event with showcase times, RSVP information and more.***
What do I need to complete for my child to attend camp/How do I get the Camper Packet?
Our Summer Film Camp Coordinator will email a digital Summer Film Camp Packet to all registrants as camp approaches. The packet forms need to be completed before the beginning of camp or your child will not be able to attend.
SPONSORED BY:
Austin Film Festival is funded and supported in part by the Cultural Arts Division of the City of Austin Economic Development Department
and by a grant from the Texas Commission on the Arts.
