Frame by Frame: Creating Mini Documentaries – Live Online Class for Ages 16–18 / Thursdays, October 16 – December 4, 2025
Frame by Frame: Creating Mini Documentaries – Live Online Class for Ages 16–18 / Thursdays, October 16 – December 4, 2025
This immersive course introduces students to the art of documentary filmmaking on a small scale. From concept to editing, teens will learn how to shape real-life stories into short, powerful films. They’ll practice skills like interviewing, framing shots, using sound, and editing for narrative impact. Each project encourages students to explore themes that matter to them—whether personal, social, or cultural—while building confidence in their ability to share stories with authenticity.
What Makes This Course Different?
Documentary Mindset: Instead of scripted productions, students learn how to capture authentic, unscripted moments that reflect real voices and perspectives.
Creative Independence: Teens get hands-on experience taking a project from idea to finished mini-documentary, gaining ownership of their creative process.
Practical Filmmaking Skills: Students explore key tools and techniques—camera work, audio, editing—while keeping storytelling at the center.
Mentored Feedback: Every filmmaker receives individualized input to help refine their voice, technique, and message.
Unlike many beginner film classes that focus on equipment alone, this course emphasizes storytelling with heart. Students walk away not just with technical skills, but with their first documentary work to share.
AVAILABILITY
Thursdays, 5:15 PM - 6:30 PM EST
Oct 16, Oct 23, Oct 30, Nov 6, Nov 13, Nov 20, Dec 4
LOCATION
Instruction will be provided through the Zoom platform. Students should have a webcam and the ability to download zoom on their computer, phone, or tablet. Once you register for the class, you will be sent an e-mail with the Zoom URL to log in to the class.
CUSTOM SCHEDULING
If your homeschool group or school would like to schedule a custom session at a different time, I’d be happy to work with you to make that happen. Please feel free to contact me to discuss options and details.
WHAT YOU’LL LEARN
Story Development: Learn how to brainstorm, outline, and structure a short documentary that communicates a clear message or theme.
Visual Composition: Discover how framing, camera movement, and shot sequencing shape the emotional impact of your story.
Interview & Sound Skills: Practice conducting interviews, capturing authentic voices, and recording clear audio to enhance your film.
Editing Techniques: Explore beginner-friendly editing tools and techniques to combine visuals, sound, and narrative into a polished short film.
Collaborative Projects: Work with peers to create mini-documentaries, gaining hands-on experience in the full production process from concept to final cut.
WHO SHOULD TAKE THIS COURSE
This course is designed for teens ages 16–18 who are curious about filmmaking and want to explore the art of documentary storytelling. Whether you’ve dabbled with video before or are starting fresh, you’ll develop the skills to create meaningful short films using just your smartphone, tablet, or camera.
COURSE FORMAT
The Frame by Frame course is entirely live online, combining interactive lessons with hands-on production work. Each session mixes instruction, guided practice, and group collaboration. Students will share drafts, receive personalized feedback, and refine their projects with support from both peers and the instructor.
WHY TAKE THIS COURSE
Mini-documentaries offer a powerful way to amplify voices, share perspectives, and shed light on issues that matter. In this course, students will not only gain technical filmmaking skills but also learn how to use storytelling as a tool for impact and self-expression. By the end, each student will have produced their own mini-documentary—a film that reflects their vision, creativity, and unique point of view.
PRIVACY & PERMISSIONS
Learning Through A Lens values the privacy and creative rights of all participants. During our programs, we may take photos or videos of students for documentation and promotional purposes. With parent/guardian consent, we may also share student artwork on our website, social media, or other materials.
Personal information collected during registration is used only to communicate about the program. We do not share or sell personal data. Participation will never be affected by whether families grant permission for photos, videos, or artwork.