In The Art of Filmmaking course at USF Tampa, high school students explore the foundations of digital video, sound, and electronic art production. Over an intensive week, they engage in scriptwriting, cinematography, lighting, and editing, building skills essential to creating impactful films. Through hands-on projects, they work collaboratively in a creative environment, learning both the technical and interpersonal skills needed for future opportunities in college applications, scholarships, and creative careers.
By the end of the week, students have crafted their own short films, which they showcase at a final screening event for family and friends. This immersive experience allows them to build a digital portfolio while navigating the challenges of long-distance and remote production, making it an invaluable opportunity to grow as filmmakers.
USF Art of Filmmaking Details
Camp Director: Shawn Cheatham
Location: USF Tampa - Fine Arts Building (FAH)
Grade Levels: Entering 10th - 12th
Dates: TBD
Time: 9:00AM - 4:00PM
Cost: TBD
What to Expect
Bringing Stories to Life on Screen
Students dive into scriptwriting to create engaging stories, learning how to build narratives that captivate. Through hands-on practice, they refine story ideas, developing skills that lay the foundation for impactful films and equip them with essential storytelling techniques.
Lights, Camera, Action: Technical Mastery
From lighting setups to sound design and cinematography, students gain practical experience in filmmaking fundamentals. They explore essential shooting and editing skills, learning how to bring their vision to life through polished visuals and sound.
The Power of Teamwork in Film
Filmmaking thrives on collaboration, and students work together to create their films. This teamwork approach builds valuable skills in communication and creativity, preparing students for cooperative work in the arts—even in remote production settings.
Screening Their Vision: The Final Cut
Students conclude the camp by presenting their films in a special screening for friends and family. This event celebrates their creativity and dedication, while helping them build a digital portfolio for college applications, scholarships, and future career opportunities.
At USF Tampa’s The Art of Filmmaking camp, high schoolers immerse themselves in the essentials of digital media production—from scriptwriting and cinematography to sound and editing. Led by industry experts, students gain hands-on experience creating original films while building teamwork and communication skills crucial for creative careers.
The week wraps up with a special showcase of their work, giving students a chance to celebrate their achievements and build a portfolio for college or future opportunities. Perfect for aspiring filmmakers, this camp offers an unforgettable deep dive into the art and craft of storytelling on screen.
Useful Information
When does registration open for USF Art of Filmmaking?
Registration for all 2025 summer camps will open on February 1, 2025.
What is the capacity of USF Art of Filmmaking?
USF Art of Filmmaking has a capacity of 20 campers.
What is the refund/cancellation policy?
USF reserves the right to cancel camps, in which case registration fees are fully refunded. If it becomes necessary for USF to cancel, postpone or combine camps, or change a camp location, you will be notified by email or phone. It is important that we have your current contact information. If a camp is cancelled, you will receive a full refund. If a registration is received after the enrollment limit has been reached, a full refund will be issued.
If you need to cancel a camp registration, please email USF Youth Experiences. If the cancellation occurs 10 days prior to camp start date a full refund will be received with the exception of administration fees. However, if the cancellation is received within 10 business days of the camp start date, no refund will be given. No refunds will be issued after the start date of the camp.
Who are the USF Faculty/Staff that lead the USF Art of Filmmaking summer camp?
Shawn Cheatham, who has a Master of Fine Arts from the University of South Florida, is a leading faculty member for USF’s Art of Filmmaking. Cheatham is an accomplished filmmaker whose work has been showcased internationally, including at the New York Short Film Festival, The Toronto International Film and Video Awards, and the Tromanale Festival in Berlin. Cheatham creates films that explore themes of power, knowledge, and emotional resonance. He also received an Individual Artist Grant from the Arts Council of Hillsborough County.
Where is the USF Art of Filmmaking summer camp located?
The USF Art of Filmmaking summer camp is held at the USF Tampa Campus, within the Fine Arts Building (FAH). The camp's location is 13001 USF Laurel Drive, FAH 110, Tampa, FL 33620.
What time is drop-off and pick-up for USF Art of Filmmaking?
Our staff will be ready to welcome your child for drop-off at 8:50 AM in front of the Fine Arts Building (FAH) building, with pick-up starting at 4:00 PM. If you are running late for drop-off or pick-up, please call our office at (813) 974-3355 to let us know.
After registering for USF Art of Filmmaking, when will I start receiving logistical details, including drop-off and pick-up times?
You will receive several reminder emails leading up to the camp start date. Emails will be sent 60, 30, 14, 7, and 1 day prior, each containing important information to ensure a successful experience at the USF Biomedical Engineering Summer Camp.
Take a look at photos from last year's USF Art of Filmmaking
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