Thanksgiving Camp

LIGHTS, CAMERA, ACTION! Filmmaking & Acting Camp

This 3-day camp is an immersive experience where campers will create multiple short films, each exploring different storytelling styles and genres. Through a mix of hands-on activities, improvisation, and teamwork, campers will develop creative confidence while making movies they’ll be proud of.​

Our comprehensive youth filmmaking curriculum covers every aspect of professional movie production, carefully adapted for young learners ages 7 to 14 while maintaining industry standards. Whether your child dreams of becoming a director, actor, cinematographer, or editor, they'll gain hands-on experience in all creative roles.

By the end of the week, campers don't just understand filmmaking concepts. They've actually made a real film from scratch, experiencing the satisfaction of seeing their creative vision come to life on screen.

DAY 1: Action-Packed One-Take Movie & Silent Film Challenge

🎬 Focus: Acting, Movement, and Visual Storytelling

    •    Icebreaker: “Act It Out” – Fun group activities to build confidence on camera.

    •    The One-Take Action Movie – Campers create a 1-2 minute action scene in a single take (e.g., a zombie chase, a superhero showdown, or a spy escape).

    •    The Silent Movie Challenge – Inspired by classic silent films, teams must tell a short story using only expressions and physical comedy (e.g., “The Great Pie Fight” or “Lost in the City”).

    •    Screen & Discuss – Watch the films and discuss storytelling without words.

DAY 2: Mystery, Comedy & The Talk Show Challenge

🎬 Focus: Writing & Improvisation

    •    The Mystery Short Film – Groups create a 2-3 minute whodunit (e.g., “The Missing Trophy” or “The Haunted Backpack”).

    •    Comedy & Improv Games – Learn comedic timing through fast-paced acting exercises.

    •    The Talk Show Challenge – Each group produces a hilarious or serious talk show segment with characters (e.g., “Aliens Among Us,” “Secrets from the Principal’s Office”).

    •    Scriptwriting & Planning for the Big Film – Start brainstorming and outlining the main project for Days 3-5.

DAY 3: Filming the Big Movie – Genre Pick

🎬 Focus: Shooting a Full Short Film

Campers break into teams and choose one of the following genres for their main project: Some examples of movies are below but the story will be decided by campers.

Sci-Fi: “The Portal Problem” – A group of kids discovers a strange portal in the park.

Fantasy: “The Magic Object” – An ordinary object gives someone unexpected powers.

Horror: “The Cursed Phone” – A haunted smartphone wreaks havoc.

Comedy: “The Worst Babysitter Ever” – A chaotic babysitting adventure.

Drama: “Best Friends… or Worst Enemies?” – A friendship takes an unexpected turn.

    •    Assign Roles & Rehearse – Actors practice, and directors finalize their shot lists.

    •    Filming Begins! – Teams start shooting their films, capturing multiple scenes.

    •    Editing Prep – Organize footage and choose music/sound effects.

Real Hollywood Experience

Our instructors are working film industry professionals with credits on major studio productions including Netflix, Disney, and Amazon Studios. They bring authentic industry knowledge, real-world connections, and genuine passion for mentoring young filmmakers to every session.

Professional Equipment

Campers work with the same cameras, lighting rigs, boom microphones, and editing software used in actual film productions. No toy versions or simplified apps here. Your child will learn on real industry-standard equipment that professionals use every day.

Small Group Learning

We maintain a maximum 12:1 camper-to-instructor ratio at all times, ensuring every child receives personalized attention, meaningful feedback, and ample screen time. Each session has a maximum of 12 campers divided into production teams of 4 to 6.

Complete Filmmaking Journey

From initial concept brainstorming to the final premiere, campers experience the entire professional production process. They'll write scripts, create storyboards, direct scenes, operate cameras, act on screen, and edit their footage into polished short films.

Confidence Building

Through collaborative projects, creative problem-solving, public speaking, and on-camera work, children develop self-assurance that extends far beyond filmmaking. Even shy kids discover their voice and blossom when they see their ideas come to life on screen.

Extras:

    •    Online Film Access – Campers will receive a link to download their movies and we will sometimes hold film festivals at various venues across the city!

    .    An Exclusive Film Camp Photo Print of the students in action on set for every camper!