Pocket Cinema

Discover the world of mobile filmmaking with our Pocket Cinema workshop, a hands-on 4-session workshop taught by acclaimed filmmaker Nathan Hughes. Drawing from his diverse expertise in audio-visual narrative and immersive theatre, Nathan will guide participants through the intricacies of the production process, culminating in the creation of refined 2-minute films using only mobile devices and the open software of DaVinci. Explore storytelling techniques and learn practical tips for shooting and editing, all under the guidance of an experienced industry professional!

Regardless of your skill level, the Pocket Cinema workshop offers an enriching and immersive experience, guiding you through the art of mobile filmmaking and empowering you to create exciting short films using open-source software and just your phone.

In partnership with the Canberra Short Film Festival, the enrolment fee for this workshop also includes a free submission entry into the Canberra Short Film Festival’s Experimental Film Category. This is an incredible opportunity for participants to showcase their work on a larger platform and have their film screened at the viewing at PhotoAccess in November 2023.

Session 1: Pre-production – Friday, June 2nd, 6-9 pm at PhotoAccess

• Assessing participants’ filmmaking experience and goals
• Introducing mobile filmmaking tools, apps, and devices
• Discussing notable examples of mobile filmmakers
• Exploring storytelling, pre-production, visual filmmaking, and logistics

Session 2: Planning the Shoot/Production – Friday, June 9th, 6-9 pm at PhotoAccess

• Creating storyboards and shot-lists
• Managing locations and practical considerations
• Addressing health and safety concerns
• Discussing equipment needs and guerilla filmmaking techniques
• Emphasising the importance of quality sound recording

Session 3: Shooting/Production – Friday, June 16th, 6-9 pm at PhotoAccess

• Sharing tips, tricks, and best practices for efficient and stress-free shoots
• Discussing framing, composition, shot types, and sequences
• Encouraging innovation and rule-breaking in storytelling

Session 4: Edit/Post-production/Publication – Friday, June 30th, 6-9 pm at PhotoAccess

• Reconvening after the short break and sharing progress
• Learning editing principles and terminology, with examples of famous edits
• Comparing mobile and computer editing options
• Exploring sound design, problem-solving, and graphics/titles
• Discussing publishing platforms, audience reach, and film festival submissions
• Wrapping up with group screenings, critiques, and resources for continued growth

• Free submission to the Canberra Short Film Festival Experimental Film Category (screening date TBA)
• Laptops – participants are welcome to bring their own if they prefer
• Phone tripod mounts and tripods
• Digital projector for viewing work
• Notebook and pen for taking notes and recording discoveries
• Tea and coffee

• A mobile device (smartphone or tablet) with a built-in camera for shooting video
• A pair of headphones or earbuds for monitoring audio during recording and editing
• Any additional accessories you may have for your devices, such as lenses, tripods, or stabilizers
• Any preferred mobile filmmaking apps pre-installed on your device, such as video editing or sound recording apps

Participants may also want to bring a portable charger or power bank to ensure their device remains charged throughout the workshop sessions.

Enrolments for this workshop close at midday (12 pm) Tuesday, May 31st, 2023. As a not-for-profit, our financial margins are narrow and classes require a minimum number of participants to run. In the event that PhotoAccess cancels a workshop, refunds will be paid in full or a transfer allowed free of charge. If a class is postponed, we will endeavour to reschedule at a time convenient to enrolled participants.

PhotoAccess will happily refund or transfer workshop fees up to 7 days prior to the start date of the workshop. If less than 7 days’ notice is given, PhotoAccess can offer a partial refund. Alternatively, enrolment can transfer to another workshop plus a $50 transfer fee. If less than 48 hours are given, no refunds or transfers can be given. Please note that memberships purchased in conjunction with a workshop enrolment are non-refundable. See Terms and Conditions for further details.