The Filmmaking program is a progressive and comprehensive curriculum that offers introductory through advanced filmmaking classes in a hands-on environment working with state-of-the-art equipment. The program focuses on filmmaking technique, emphasizing the pre-production process, visual storytelling, and artistic style. Click the button below to find our course catalog.
Registration is now open for online fall classes. Act fast – classes sell out every year!
FUNDAMENTALS OF FILMMAKING
(GRADES 6-8)
In this online class, students learn the critical elements of making a narrative film, including the pre-production process (organizing your film, logistics, visualization, stylistic choices), to production (principles of cinematography and sound) and post-production techniques. This fast-paced, comprehensive course lays the foundation for any serious filmmaker looking to create their own project and is a prerequisite for the Narrative Filmmaking Project class and the Conservatory Film Program at Imagination Stage.
HIGH SCHOOL FILMMAKING INTENSIVE
(GRADES 9-12)
For the highly motivated, but very busy, high school student who wants a fast track through the film curriculum.
NARRATIVE FILMMAKING PROJECT
(GRADES 6-12)
In this production class, students will apply knowledge from previous classes or camps to create a fully-fledged short narrative film.
FILMMAKING CONSERVATORY WORKSHOPS
(GRADES 9-12)
In these workshops students will focus on the three essential and complex areas of directing, lighting, and sound. These workshops are a stepping-stone (and required) for students who wish to advance to the Independent Film Study Program.
Please note: in order to register for the conservatory workshops, students must have taken one of the following: High School Filmmaking Intensive Workshop, Narrative Filmmaking Project, or a 3-week filmmaking summer camp.
DIRECTING WORKSHOP
Students will gain insights into working with actors (terminology and techniques, rehearsal process), script analysis, breakdowns, and budgets.
LIGHTING WORKSHOP
Students learn advanced concepts and techniques (theory and practice) of using light to tell stories and create mood.
SOUND DESIGN WORKSHOP
Students gain knowledge and skills in recording and post-production sound design.
INDEPENDENT FILM STUDY
(GRADES 9-12)
Write, produce, and direct your own short film from concept to final product using Imagination Stage equipment under the guidance of a filmmaking mentor.
(GRADES 9-12)
Actors interested in the medium of film learn the unique techniques of working in front of the camera by rehearsing for and performing a fully-fledged original movie.
DAVID STERN
Director of Digital Media
David Stern has been in the film industry for over 30-years. He has worked for a number of production companies in New York and Washington as a writer, director, producer, and editor, making dozens of short narratives, documentaries, and promotional videos. The Forgiving (theforgivingmovie.com) is David’s third feature film as writer/director, along with Loopholes and Dead Giveaway. David has taught film at George Washington University and currently at Imagination Stage, where he is also the Director of Digital Media and film instructor. David has won a number of awards including: CINE Golden Eagle, IAC London International Film Festival Gold Seal, TCG National Video Contest, and Silver PEER Award.
TRYKA FILM COALITION
The Tryka Film Coalition consists of high school students who want to make films or be part of a filmmaking community. Although housed at Imagination Stage, high school students connect with each other to learn about and produce films. Meetings are once per month and free.
For more information and to see some of their work: trykafilm.com.
