Micro Filmmaking with Paper Sky Films: From Idea to Screen (Creative Skills Academy)

This hands-on bootcamp is perfect for aspiring storytellers keen to create a short film from scratch—no prior experience required. Over several weeks, you will develop, shoot, and edit a “micro short film,” gaining practical skills in visual storytelling, scripting, directing, cinematography, sound, and editing.

Each session blends teaching with exercises: you will workshop ideas, rehearse scenes, conduct test shoots, and gradually build your project from concept to final cut.

Guided by an experienced filmmaker, you will rotate through key production roles, learning to communicate and problem-solve on set. Emphasis is placed on creativity and resourcefulness over budget, using accessible methods.

The course concludes with a screening of all finished films, group discussion, and advice on building a portfolio and accessing entry-level opportunities. By the end, you will have a completed film and a grounded understanding of professional filmmaking workflows.

• Fundamentals of visual storytelling
• Idea development and scriptwriting
• Directing basics and working with actors
• Cinematography fundamentals (framing, lighting, camera movement)
• Sound recording for short films
• Practical, hands-on production techniques
• Test shoots, rehearsals, and on-set problem-solving
• Rotating through key crew roles and effective set communication
• Creative, low-budget filmmaking methods
• Editing workflows and post-production essentials
• Preparing a final cut and showcasing your film
• Portfolio building and guidance on entry-level industry opportunities

You must be a competent ICT user (Mac or PC) and know your way around a computer operating system. Be willing to work within a team. It’s OK to be new to the Adobe application, but NOT new to using a computer.

You will need to be eligible to study in the UK. Upon enrolment, you will be asked to upload residency and income documents for college funding purposes.

This course is for 19+ adults only who are GLA-resident.

Free unless earning over £28,860pa (then £200)

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