"At their age, most of us just watched movies. These young film buffs make them."
— CHRIS GARCIA,
AUSTIN-AMERICAN STATESMAN
ABOUT OUR CAMPS
Since the beginning, Austin School of Film has believed in the power of media arts to change lives. For nearly 30 years, we’ve hosted award-winning summer camps that give young creators the tools to tell their stories, experiment boldly, and build confidence through hands-on learning.
Back when we first started, the media landscape looked completely different. Cameras, editing software, and studio space were often out of reach for most families. That’s why we’ve spent decades building programs that not only teach creative and technical skills but also break down barriers to access along the way.
Since our founding in 2002, we’ve had the joy of serving thousands of young creators through our youth programs. Many have gone on to become award-winning filmmakers and creative professionals, while others have continued their studies at top institutions such as the University of Texas, CalArts, and NYU Tisch School of the Arts often using projects created right here in our camps as part of their portfolios. Some of our alumni have even returned as adults through our Artist Access Program, continuing their journey as part of the same creative community that first inspired them.
As technology has become more accessible, the opportunity to create has grown—but so has the need to be intentional. That’s why, beginning in Summer 2026, we’re moving to an application-based model for our youth summer camps.
Because our camps are intentionally small at just 10 to 15 campers per session, we want to ensure that each student who participates is genuinely curious, eager to learn, and ready to explore the world of media arts. We also want our camps to be fun and inspiring, especially for students who may be new to filmmaking or animation. This new application process isn’t about testing skills or creating barriers—it’s simply a way for both parents and students to reflect on the experience ahead and ensure it’s a great fit.
What We Value
At the heart of it all is our belief that accessibility and quality education should go hand in hand—providing real training, mentorship, and inspiration from working filmmakers and animators who know what it means to create from the ground up.
Application Process
Applications for Summer 2026 are now open & reviewed on a rolling, first-come, first-served basis on Fridays with notifications each following Friday until all camp spots are filled.
This means that if you apply by Friday of any given week, you’ll receive an update on your application within five business days—no later than the following Friday.
Applications will remain open until March 1, 2026 or until sold out. We encourage families to apply early, as each camp is limited to 10–15 campers to maintain a small, focused, and collaborative learning environment.
How To Apply
Select the camp session you’re interested in below and complete the online application form.
Once submitted, your application will automatically appear in your cart for payment.
Complete the checkout process and pay the $20 application fee.
After submission, you’ll receive an automatic receipt and a copy of your application.
Please ensure your email is one you check regularly, as this is where we will notify you of your application status.
Once accepted, tuition payment will be required to confirm your spot. You may either pay in full or take advantage of our flexible payment plan—50% due upon enrollment, with the remaining balance divided into two monthly installments.
You may submit one application per camper and select multiple camp sessions within that application once you’re started!
Each application requires a $20 refundable application fee, which will be applied toward tuition if your child is accepted. If your application is not approved, you may choose to refund or donate the fee to support our youth programs.
Please note that all camp tuition is non-refundable and non-transferable as spots are limited and this is an application-based program.
SCHEDULE + camp format
All camps run Monday through Friday, 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with a 45-minute lunch break each day. Each session is intentionally small to ensure focused instruction, collaboration, and individualized mentorship.
Animation Academy Camps
Middle School Animation: June 8 – 12, 2026
High School Animation: June 15 – 19, 2026
Filmmaking Academy Camps
Middle School Filmmaking: June 22 – 26, 2026
High School Filmmaking: July 13 – 17, 2026
CAMP FORMAT
Each camp runs independently, meaning sessions do not overlap — students are welcome to enroll in both Animation and Filmmaking if they wish. We maintain a 3:1 student-to-adult ratio, ensuring a highly supportive and engaging learning environment. Each camp includes one Lead Educator and two Teaching Assistants, along with our on-site Education Manager and Programs Manager who are present throughout the week.
Image: Animation Summer Camp, 2025
select your camps
ANIMATION ACADEMY CAMP
Ages: Middle School & High School Sessions
Level: Beginner–Intermediate (all levels)
Tuition: $625
Application Fee: $20
Best fit for: Students who love drawing, digital art, or storytelling and want to explore professional animation tools in a creative, collaborative space.
In this one-week immersive camp, students learn the foundations of animation using Adobe Animate, exploring storytelling, character design, timing, and motion through guided lessons and hands-on projects.
Each student works at their own iMac workstation, equipped with professional animation software and tools used in real studios. Campers dive into essential animation principles such as squash and stretch, anticipation, and timing, while developing their own original short animated projects. Throughout the week, students explore rotoscoping techniques, voiceover recording, and sound integration, gaining experience across the full animation workflow—from concept and design to final render. Mornings focus on structured lessons, while afternoons allow for independent creative work, mentorship, and collaboration.
This camp will also feature 1–2 guest animators from Austin’s vibrant animation and digital arts community as part of our Meet the Artist series. These industry professionals will offer students an inside look at their creative process, sharing personal stories, techniques, and practical advice about building a career in animation.
Each day ends with a “show and tell” session where students share progress, celebrate creativity, and build confidence within a supportive studio environment.
End-of-Camp Showcase: All animations premiere at an end-of-week screening with complimentary food and drinks for family and friends.
FILMMAKING academy camp
Ages: Middle School & High School Sessions
Level: Beginner–Intermediate (all levels)
Tuition: $625
Application Fee: $20
Best fit for: Students curious about filmmaking, storytelling, and collaboration who want to gain real film production experience in a creative, supportive environment.
In this one-week hands-on filmmaking camp, students work together as a film crew—writing, directing, filming, and editing their own short film. Led by working industry filmmakers and educators, campers experience every stage of the filmmaking process using real cameras, lighting, and sound equipment in our production studios and editing labs. They learn the essentials of visual storytelling—how to frame a shot, light a scene, record high-quality audio, and edit footage to create emotion and rhythm. Each day blends guided instruction with hands-on production and teamwork. Campers rotate through on-set crew roles like director, cinematographer, and sound operator, gaining real-world experience across all areas of film production.
Throughout the week, students will also meet guest filmmakers and creative professionals from Austin’s film community as part of our Meet the Artist series. These guests—ranging from wardrobe stylists and gaffers to cinematographers and editors—share valuable insight, stories, and advice about their craft and working in the film industry.
End-of-Camp Showcase: Their completed short film will premiere at an end-of-week screening with complimentary food and drinks for family and friends.
SUMMER CAMP 2026: FAQ
Who can join?
Any child interested in film, animation, or digital media arts! No prior experience is required—just a strong interest in learning, experimenting, and creating. Our application-based model helps ensure that each camper is ready to fully participate in our hands-on, project-based sessions.
How does the application process work?
Applications for Summer 2026 open on October 15, 2025 and will be reviewed on a rolling basis—first come, first served—until all spots are filled. We strongly encourage early applications, as each camp is limited to just 10–15 campers to keep sessions small, focused, and collaborative. Once accepted, payment (or your first installment) is due to confirm your spot.
Can I pay in installments?
Yes! We offer flexible payment plans. You can secure your child’s place with a 50% deposit, and pay the remaining balance in two monthly installments.
Where are camps located?
Our camp locations are located at 916 Springdale Road (The Canopy Art Complex), where we operate 2 production studios. You'll receive details about your specific studio location in your welcome and reminder emails.
What’s included in camp?
✔️ All-Inclusive Tuition: Covers all equipment, software, and materials—no hidden fees.
✔️ Camper Perks: Summer camp t-shirt & tote bag
✔️ End-of-Week Showcase: Each camp wraps with a Friday showcase at 4PM featuring student work + food, drinks, family, and friends.
Do you provide meals or snacks?
We provide healthy snacks such as fresh fruit and gluten-free crackers. Campers must bring a sack lunch, snacks, and a reusable water bottle each day.
My child just finished 8th grade—should they register for Middle School or High School camp?
Students who have completed 8th grade and will begin high school in the fall should register for the High School session. These camps generally include students entering 9th–11th grade and offer a slightly more advanced, project-based learning experience.
What about students finishing 5th grade?
Our Middle School sessions are designed for students who have completed 6th grade. Students finishing 5th grade are typically too young for the pace of our youth program. We recommend waiting until they’ve completed 6th grade before applying.
Can I choose which group my child joins?
Yes! If your child falls between grade levels (for example, finishing 8th grade), you may choose between Middle School or High School placement. We’re happy to help you decide which environment will be the best fit based on your student’s age, experience, and comfort level.
Why the Shift to an Application-Based Model?
Over the past 30 years, we've had the honor of teaching thousands of young creatives through our award-winning media arts summer camps. We've watched students come in with no prior experience and leave with short films, animations, and music videos they created themselves—often for the first time ever. The joy and pride kids feel as they bring their stories to life is truly something special.
While the vast majority of our campers are excited, engaged, and eager to create, we’ve occasionally seen a child enrolled who clearly don’t want to participate. Whether they were signed up by a well-meaning parent or were simply placed in the wrong fit, the energy can shift and it can impact the experience of the entire group.
This has only happened in fewer than 10% of cases, but even that small number has made it clear: To protect the quality of the experience, we need to be more intentional.
WHERE ARE THE CAMPS LOCATED?
All camps are hosted in 916 Springdale Road (The Canopy Art Complex)
Parents will be sent a reminder email 5 days before camp begins with the check-in process and any other important details to share!
Still have questions? Email us at classes@austinfilmschool.org