ErinLaing.com

I taught a film-making workshop this weekend. I was teaching on behalf of C-vert, an environmental engagement program for teens (between the ages of 14 and 16), and Flyt Foundation.

The purpose of the workshop was to introduce these kids to various aspects of documentary film-making. They’ll be attending a conference held by David Suzuki in mid May and will be responsible to film the event and produce a two minute “rockumentary” based on an environmental theme of their choice.

I was teaching alongside cinematographer Nicolas Venne and documentary filmmaker Tamar Kozlov. The weekend was intense but tons of fun. I was blown away by the fact that there were eight girls and only one guy participating.

The two days were jam packed but it was amazing to see how quickly the kids picked up on complex ideas. They learned how to tell a story, how to find a theme, how to interview a subject and how to compose a proper image. By the end of the two days they were asking complex journalistic questions based on their themes and rack focusing. These kids had never seen a camera before. Needless to say it was a very satisfying experience.

We’ll be following these kids to the Suzuki conference and then editing with them shortly after. I can’t wait to see what they produce!