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OPPORTUNITIES FOR YOUNG FILMMAKERS |
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With the evolution of video cameras over the last twenty years and the ease of use of modern editing suites for PC and Mac, just about anyone can make their own movie. The big question from there is; What to do with your movie?
There are various competitions, most notably right now is FilmCAN, where students in grades K-12 can enter their videos to win either an iMac with Final Cut Express or a Sony HD Handy Cam from Sony Style and both winners are then screened at the Victoria Film Festival as well. But that’s just one option, and is exclusive to Greater Victoria Students.
There are numerous programs and festivals geared to the youth all across the country. There are professionals willing to help once you make contact with these programs. Again, such as FilmCAN
Most large cities have some program of sorts that a young filmmaker can join to further develop their skills and desire to become involved in the film industry.
Reel Youth is a program that offers claymation and video making programs for youth groups, schools, and service agencies looking for exciting and meaningful ways to engage young people. ‘Reel Youth is a not-for-profit, media empowerment program supporting young people to create and distribute films about their visions for a more just and sustainable world.’ You can find more information on their organization and what they do by clicking here.
On top of these options, there are other ways to get yourself out there. With sites like YouTube and Vimeo, you can get your video online to be seen by millions in a matter of minutes. Just uploading and hoping something will happen is unlikely, but there are many ways to direct traffic to your videos. Social media, such as Twitter and Facebook are a simple way to ask friends for feedback. If you want a more objective opinion, using the many online forums for filmmakers are a good way to gain constructive criticism. Websites like www.indietalk.com, www.2-popforums.com & www.filmmaking.netare just a few of the sites any filmmaker, regardless of age, can go to, and seek and ask for help.
Another great initiative is Young Cuts, based out of Montreal. They are a global network of the best filmmakers and videographers under 25. They help get video jobs to young filmmakers as well as holding an annual film festival for just youth.http://www.youngcuts.com/
There are many sites that focus on giving tips for young filmmakers. Here’s a couple worth taking a look at but there are many more to be found. Just use Google, or ask the people on the filmmaking forums. http://www.actioncutprint.com/youngfilmmakertips.html & http://www.youngfilmmakersclub.com/FAQ.html are a couple places to get you started. Our own FilmCAN Facebook event, FilmCAN page at our main site and our Vimeo page all have different information available to help those new to filmmaking as well.
If you have a passion for filmmaking, don’t let distribution be daunting. Just get it out there, and ask people to watch it and give you feedback. You’ll be surprised by the positive help you can find when you ask. And if you make something really good, it could be what helps you get discovered.
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