AURORA BOOT CAMP:
A Summer Filmmaking Experience for Kids

Each Summer, Aurora hosts filmmaking boot camps where youth can learn about film and video at Aurora Picture Show. As part of our Popcorn Kids programming, Aurora Boot Camps teach hands-on narrative and experimental techniques using digital video from professional filmmakers. Campers use the Aurora office and Menil neighborhood to develop, produce and edit their own short films. Working collaboratively on digital video projects, students are not only exposed to filmmaking techniques but also explore less traditional film and video.

Aurora offers three need-based scholarships to each camp.  For details and an application, please check out the Aurora Boot Camp Scholarship Fund. The Summer Boot Camps are made possible with support from Kinder Morgan Foundation and The Brown Foundation.

Aurora Alternative Filmmaking Boot Camp for Teens
Dates: July 12 to 16  (SOLD OUT)
Times: 9am to 2pm
Ages 13-17 (12 students max enrollment)
Cost: $200 Aurora Members, $250 non-members
Campers learn alternative and experimental filmmaking processes from the pros at the Aurora Alternative Filmmaking Boot Camp. Students explore the possibilities of the moving image through watching films from the Aurora library, learning from professionals, and working on their own projects. One teacher will lead the class through the five-day camp and additional media specialists will teach the students specific techniques. This hands-on class will feature a different non-traditional filmmaking technique everyday including: internet downloading and mashing-up, i-sight and cell phone videos, scanners and photographs, and others. Students will make short videos throughout the camp and present one at the camp screening open to all friends and family. Flip video cameras will be available for discount at $50 each or students may bring their own cameras. 

Aurora Filmmaking Boot Camp for Kids
Two sessions: July 19-23  or July 26-30  (SOLD OUT)
Time: 9am-2pm
Ages: 9-12 (12 students max enrollment)
Cost: $200 for Aurora Picture Show members, $250 for non-members
Aurora hosts a filmmaking boot camp where youth can learn about film and video at Aurora Picture Show. Aurora Boot Camp teaches hands-on narrative and experimental techniques using digital video from professional filmmakers. Campers use the Aurora office and Menil neighborhood to develop, produce and edit their own short films. Working collaboratively on 5-10 minute digital video projects, students are not only exposed to filmmaking techniques but also explore less traditional film and video. Using the Aurora Video Library, students will be able to explore examples of experimental, documentary and short narrative videos for inspiration. Topics include story structures and writing, direction, camera operation, sound and editing. At the end of the class students will receive a DVD of their own video. Finished films are screened for family and friends at a culminating showcase. Flip video cameras will be available for discount at $50 each or students may bring their own cameras. 

Check out videos from the 2009 Boot Camp for Kids