Description
Behind the Lens Filmmaking Workshop – 5-Day Experience – August 18 to 22, 2025
Description:
Join a unique, hands-on filmmaking experience based at the Character Driven Production Studio on Gabriola Island. Designed for creative youth aged 13–18, this 5-day (Monday to Friday) program offers practical, professional-level production training with real-world tools and software in a collaborative, story-rich environment.
Participants explore the full filmmaking process: storyboarding, scripting, camera work, sound, lighting, editing, and livestreaming. Workshops are led by a seasoned media professional with decades of experience in radio, television, photography, writing, web, and live event production.
Each day includes lunch and snacks, and every participant becomes part of a working production team. By the end of the week, each crew will have created and screened their own original short film.
Workshop Includes:
- Professional studio access and production training
- Use of industry-grade equipment: Blackmagic cameras, Canon camcorders, OBS, Da Vinci Resolve, Shure & Rode microphones, lighting gear, editing bays, and more
- Instruction in visual storytelling, editing, switching, and livestream techniques
- All meals and supplies
- Showcase screening and certificate
- Screening of all media will be done virtually in the fall at the Behind The Lens Kids Virtual Film Festival — a watch party via Zoom
Participant Options & Pricing:
Island-Based Participants:
- $675 CAD
- Includes full workshop experience, lunch/snacks, and equipment use
Off-Island Participants – Cabin Stay
- $1,275 CAD
- Includes full workshop + 5 nights accommodation in rustic cabin (parent/guardian must accompany minor) + $50 cleaning fee
- Includes full workshop + 5 nights accommodation in rustic cabin (parent/guardian must accompany minor)
Off-Island Participants – Bunkie Stay
- $975 CAD
- Includes full workshop + 5 nights in shared bunkie (parent/guardian must accompany minor) + $50 cleaning fee
- Includes full workshop + 5 nights in shared bunkie (parent/guardian must accompany minor)
Off-Island Participants – Tent Camping
- $775 CAD
- Includes full workshop + tent space for youth + parent/guardian (no trailers or RVs permitted)
Livestream Participants
- $295 CAD
- Access daily livestream training, behind-the-scenes footage, and remote project mentoring
Ages: 13–18
Time: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM daily
Location: Character Driven Production Studio, Gabriola Island, BC
Note: All off-island accommodation options are strictly for registered participants and their accompanying adult. No accommodation is offered independent of workshop participation.
Media Use Consent: Participants will have the opportunity to be featured in livestreams, promotional materials, and student-created content. Consent is required for on-camera participation. Behind-the-scenes roles are available for those who do not consent.
Limited Liability Agreement: By registering, participants and/or their guardians acknowledge that they understand and accept the inherent risks associated with participation in hands-on media production. Character Driven Media Inc., its instructors, and affiliated entities are not liable for injuries, loss, or damages that may occur during the course of the workshop. A signed waiver will be required upon registration.