Deadline to register for our January 2026 session is December 26, 2025.
Our beginner filmmaking course — an 8-week, 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.
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: 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.
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.*
Schedule:
Receive a notification when a seat becomes available in this class!
Deadline to register for our January 2026 session is December 26, 2025.
Our beginner filmmaking course — an 8-week, 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.
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: 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.
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.*
This course is a stepping stone for students to learn all phases of production and has an exciting roster of independent local filmmakers who teach each session.
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