STAFF PICKS
The MMAC team shares recommendations for you: celebrating the approaching new year with new goals and new classes to choose from!
All class recommendations are intro level and 25% off!
Anne’s Pick (Executive Director)
Intro to 2D Animation
I have always been drawn to the imaginative world of animation. This Intro to 2D Digital Animation course will take any person interested, on a journey to learn how to create their very own animations - making their ideas come to life. If you’re a fan of animation and have always wondered how some animations are made or interested in learning creative animation software - this is a good place to start!
A weekend, hands-on workshop exploring the art and technique of 2D digital animation using Adobe Animate and Wacom tablets.
Delve into the world of digital animation with our comprehensive course. Whether you want to master Adobe Animate, develop digital animations, or explore animation as an illustrator, this course is designed for you.
Designed for beginners and those new to digital animation, our curriculum helps you grasp core concepts, techniques, and principles of 2D animation, applicable to various creative projects while also learning how to use a Wacom (animation) tablet.
Through theory and practice, students learn 2D digital animation, bringing characters to life and crafting narratives.
Topics include:
Adobe Animate introduction
The 12 Principles of Animation
Metamorphosis
Squash & Stretch, Anticipation & Follow-through
Ball Bounce
Jumping
Head Turn
Human Walk cycle
The course culminates in short animations and a final project reel.
You'll also receive:
Professional feedback
Project-based learning
Individual iMac Computer Station with software & Wacom to work with in class
Post-class Wacom (additional $60, optional)
MORE INFORMATION
Location: This course will be held at the Austin School of Film in our iMac computer lab at The Clayton. All materials, equipment, software, and computers are provided for use during the workshop. To learn more about our locations, visit this link.
Who Should Attend: Ideal for beginners, illustrators, and filmmakers interested in learning digital 2D animation techniques. No prior animation experience required. Students must be 16 years or older to enroll.
Supplies & Materials: All Wacom tablets, lab computers, and software (Adobe Animate) are provided. Participants are welcome to bring their own drawing tablet or laptop with Adobe Animate installed if preferred.
Certificate: This course is part of Austin School of Film’s Film Forward Certificate Program.
Certification: This course, along with all Austin School of Film programs, is approved by the Texas Education Agency (TEA) to provide Continuing Professional Education (CPE) credits.
HOW CAN I START A PAYMENT PLAN?
Anyone is eligible for a payment plan for any class if they need it! Email us to get started on a payment plan at classes@austinfilmschool.org. We require 50% of the tuition cost at registration and can divide the remaining balance in up to 2 additional equal payments.
Faiza’s Pick (Programs Director)
Intro to Final Cut Pro X
I’m an avid user of Final Cut Pro X and I cannot stress this enough - learn how to edit and learn how to edit efficiently!
Sure, you can watch youtube videos but why not just take a class with an industry trained professional and learn all you need to know over the course of the weekend? As someone who is always spreading myself thin with too many project (oops), editing efficiently is something that saves me hours of time. If you’re more of a Adobe user, Intro to Adobe Premiere Pro is also an option. Get the basics down and get your edit on!
Carrie’s Pick (Community Director)
Movie Making Camp
I wish we had camps like this when I was a kid, growing up in Indiana. I'm one of the founders of the Austin Youth Film Festival, and every year, I get the chance to witness some of the best and brightest films, and they're made by KIDS. This camp gives youth the fundamentals of making short films while being a really neat place for them to meet other kids that love movies to. When you get the chance to see a kid look through a camera with that much determination and energy, it's exciting to think about what the future will be like.
Emily’s Pick (UX Designer & Front-End Dev)
Intro to Photoshop
If you’re at all interested in the ever-expanding world of professional graphic design, Intro to Adobe Photoshop is absolutely essential. This is still the first and most crucial tool in any designer’s toolbox, even after all these years! There’s a reason Photoshop has remained the #1 image editor (amongst both professional and amateur designers) for literal decades while other image editing software comes and goes as mere fleeting trends… You’ll be sipping kool-aid with the rest of Adobe’s design cult (sorry, ceremonial robes not included) by the end of your first day of class, too— come see what all that hype is about and start designing like the pros!
Joey’s Pick (Community Manager)
Intro to Special FX
In todays world many people overlook the importance of using practical effects over computer generated ones, especially in the low budget film world. I feel many people shy away from practical effects due to a lack of understanding on how to utilize it properly. This course, taught by Jennifer Cunningham, an amazing local artist, breaks down special effects for maximum efficiency for low budget film makers. Take this course especially if your interested in genre filmmaking.
Valarie’s Pick (Community Assistant)
Avant Garde & Experimental Filmmaking
This is one of the most unique classes provided by ASoF. Learn how to use and shoot on Super 8mm cameras and process your film stock by hand. Not only that, but also explore the history of avant-garde and experimental film by watching and discussing important films and directors. By the end of this class not only will you get knowledge and hands-on experience with actual film, you'll have a short experimental film to call your own.
Deadline to register for our Fall 2026 course is August 15, 2026.
Our beginner filmmaking course — an 8-week, hands-on introduction to the complete process of making a film from concept to screen.
Experimental film — often described as cinematic poetry, a visual fever dream, or art in motion — exists outside the traditional boundaries of storytelling. It’s the foundation of modern visual language, influencing everything from Hollywood films and music videos to fashion campaigns and commercial art. David Lynch’s Blue Velvet drew inspiration from Kenneth Anger, while Dior’s short film campaign was directly influenced by Maya Deren’s Meshes of the Afternoon.
In this award-winning 8-week course, students will explore the history, theory, and practice of avant-garde and experimental filmmaking. Blending creative lecture, film screenings, and hands-on analog production, the course introduces students to the experimental filmmaking process and the tactile craft of working with Super 8 and 16mm film.
Guided by an experienced experimental filmmaker, students will experiment with structure, abstraction, and emotion as storytelling tools — learning to see film not only as a medium of narrative, but as a living, expressive art form. By the end of the course, participants will have created their own experimental Super 8 short film and a 16mm Direct Animation project, bringing analog texture and visual experimentation to life.
Topics covered include:
Understanding the language & methods of experimental cinema
Explore experimental film’s history and connections to the evolution of all forms of motion-picture media.
Analyzing experimental short-form films & filmmakers
Applying experimental techniques to film exercises and projects.
Creating your own original experimental film
Technical Camera Lab: Shooting on Super 8mm Cameras
Technical Processing Lab: Developing Super 8 Film
Technical Editing Lab: Non-traditional editing techniques
What’s include in your tuition:
Super 8 camera rental ($150 value)
2 rolls of Super 8 film ($80 value)
Darkroom Access
Resource Slides (for post-class refreshers such as teching a camera, darkroom instructions)
Access to CINEMAKER & additional equipment access to support your film
Film & Friends showcase of final work (with food & drink plus filmmaker Q&A)
This course is designed to foster an understanding of film as both an art form and a means of creative expression.
Outside of Class Commitment: Students are expected to dedicate time outside of class to work on their projects, with support available through various resources offered as part of your course such as camera rentals and booking studio time in our of our production studios.
Student Experience: Students will work collaboratively in small production teams to write, shoot, and edit multiple short films using professional gear. Throughout the course, participants will receive creative and technical mentorship from instructors, guest filmmakers, and peers — culminating in a public screening of their completed work.
WINTER STUDENT ORIENTATION: Join us for an optional but highly recommended student orientation, just before classes begin where Austin School of Film will invite all project-based students for the quarter. This free bonus event is a great way to get familiar with gear check-out, studio access, and connect with your classmates, educators, as well as students from other project-based “Make Something” courses happening this winter.
MORE INFORMATION
Location: This course will be held in multiple locations including The Clayton and CINEMAKER @ The Canopy. All cameras, lighting, and equipment are provided for use during the course. To learn more about our locations, visit this link.
Who Should Attend: Ideal for those interested in art, experimental media, and alternative approaches to filmmaking. Open to ages 18 and up. No experience necessary — beginners welcome!
Supplies & Materials: All supplies are included: Super 8 camera, two rolls of Kodak film, access to additional gear, and use of our editing lab. Students may purchase up to two additional rolls of film (maximum four total) for $32 each.
Course Structure: This hands-on, 8-week course combines lectures, screenings, and studio-based projects to explore experimental film techniques. Students will complete two final works — one Super 8 short film and one 16mm Direct Animation piece.
Damage Clause: Students will be working with real motion-picture film and analog cameras. Respect for the materials and process is essential. Students are responsible for any costs incurred during their film production. While Austin School of Film is not liable for damages resulting from misuse, instructors are committed to supporting each student in completing a film they’re proud of.
Certificate: This course is part of Austin School of Film’s Film Forward Certificate Program.
Certification: All Austin School of Film courses are certified by the Texas Education Agency (TEA) to provide Continuing Professional Education (CPE) credits.*
HOW CAN I START A PAYMENT PLAN?
Anyone is eligible for a payment plan for any class if they need it! Email us to get started on a payment plan at classes@austinfilmschool.org. We require 50% of the tuition cost at registration and can divide the remaining balance in up to 2 additional equal payments.
Mia’s Pick (Digital Marketing)
Digital Filmmaking
If you're looking to be a part of filmmaking in whatever position-- gaffer, cinematographer, sound, etc-- I'd recommend starting with Digital Filmmaking. Its a great intro class, and even if you know the basics the class provides you with something very important: the means to make a short film. Plus you can use the Cinemaker Space to shoot and the iMac lab to edit.
Deadline to register for our special summer session is June 1, 2026.
The upcoming summer session runs for 6 weeks with two built-in lab days, replacing the traditional 8-week format, designed for more flexible schedules, travel, and participants visiting Austin.
Our beginner filmmaking course — a hands-on introduction to the complete process of making a film from concept to screen.
This hands-on beginner course is the perfect starting point for anyone eager to make films but unsure where to begin. Whether you’re completely new to filmmaking or a self-taught creator ready to sharpen your skills, this is our recommended starting place for all aspiring filmmakers.
Over 8 weeks, students will be guided through every stage of the filmmaking process — from developing an idea and writing a script to filming, editing, and screening the finished project at a public showcase. Along the way, you’ll build a strong foundation in storytelling, collaboration, and production — essential skills that will support you throughout your creative journey.
Emphasizing a “learning by doing” approach, students will work in small crews to produce 2–3 short narrative films using professional gear and real-world production techniques. Guest filmmakers and industry professionals will provide insight, feedback, and mentorship throughout the course, helping each student grow as both a storyteller and visual artist.
TOPICS COVERED
Concept & Pitching: Story development and structure
Screenwriting for Film: From concept to screenplay
Working with Actors: Casting, auditions, and collaboration
Crew Roles: Understanding set dynamics
Sound Recording: Capturing high-quality audio
Shooting Labs: Hands-on training with cameras and lighting
Production Management: Scheduling and organizing shoots
Mock Set Practice: Featuring guest actors and crew simulations
Post-Production: Editing essentials and workflow
Marketing Your Film: How to promote and build an audience
Film Festivals: How and where to submit your work
WHAT’S INCLUDED IN YOUR TUITION
Access to production studios and equipment at Cinemaker
Student Orientation: Get introduced to our gear, creative ethos, and connect with fellow students at a casual networking mixer with other classes in session
10% discount on rentals at Austin Movie Gear
Bi-Annual Film & Friends Showcase: Celebrate your work with a public screening, complete with food, drinks, and a filmmaker Q&A
Outside of Class Commitment: Students are expected to dedicate time outside of class to work on their projects, with support available through various resources offered as part of your course such as camera rentals and booking studio time in our of our production studios.
Student Experience: Students will work collaboratively in small production teams to write, shoot, and edit multiple short films using professional gear. Throughout the course, participants will receive creative and technical mentorship from instructors, guest filmmakers, and peers — culminating in a public screening of their completed work.
MORE INFORMATION
Location: This course will be held in multiple locations including The Clayton and CINEMAKER @ The Canopy. All cameras, lighting, and equipment are provided for use during the course. To learn more about our locations, visit this link.
Who Should Attend: Perfect for beginners, aspiring filmmakers, and storytellers who want to understand the full filmmaking process. No prior filmmaking experience required. Students must be 16 years or older to enroll.
Supplies & Materials:All cameras, lighting kits, and studio gear are provided for in-class exercises. Participants will also have access to editing bays and the ability to check out select pieces of equipment for off-site shooting.
Prerequisites: None. This course is designed specifically for beginners and serves as the foundation for all other production classes at Austin School of Film.
Certificate:This course is part of Austin School of Film’s Film Forward Certificate Program.
Certification: This course, along with all Austin School of Film programs, is approved by the Texas Education Agency (TEA) to provide Continuing Professional Education (CPE) credits.*