Home Video  Workshop

Presented by Tom Sims

Every Photographer a Filmmaker

Everyone who takes snapshots can be a filmmaker today. Only a few years ago high quality digital photography and video were priced out of the reach of most hobbyists. That has changed, and today every personal computer is shipped with the basic tools to make a movie and record a DVD. Modestly priced digital snapshot cameras also record video clips with sound, and some cell phones can capture photos and video. YouTube, DivX Stage 6, MySpace and personal web sites all provide ready-to-hand opportunities to publicly screen one’s home movies.

The New Jersey State Film Festival at Cape May is drawing on its acclaimed Young Film Makers programs to create workshops for adult hobbyists who want to learn how to add professional look and appeal to the films they make at home.  This year’s workshop will emphasize the techniques used by popular film makers like Ken Burns, who turn snapshots and archival photos into compelling and entertaining cinema.

Professional film makers think in terms of composing shots, much in the way that a professional still photographer does. The production of a movie involves creatively combining these clips to tell a story. When done well, the audience loses any conscious awareness of individual clips, and is swept into the flow. Even when the film is a documentary made largely of still photos, the illusion of motion is created by the narrative and the creative ways photos are used.

At this year’s Home Movie workshop, Tom Sims will show his adult students how to make their snapshots and video clips come alive and be entertaining for friends and family enjoyment. Most of the afternoon will be devoted to individual coaching as students apply what they have learned.

Students should bring their own photos and laptop computer (see registration form).

Capacity is limited. Register early before the workshop is fully booked. Walk-ins can’t be assured of admission.

Thursday Afternoon, Nov. 15, 2007

12:30 PM to 3:30 PM, Cape May

Specific location to be announced.

Fee: $50 per person.

(Click to get Registration form)

             

"Bring your photos (digital preferred) and your laptop--but only if it has a standard movie making software included like Microsoft Windows Movie Maker or MAC iMovie (most laptops nowadays have a movie software package built in). We'll plan to spend some time actually creating a movie with your photos--adding background music, video transitions, and other elements to transform your photos into an exciting film!"

-- Tom Sims

    

Congress Hall supports the NJ State Film Festival by hosting many festival events including this workshop. Enjoy a great lunch without leaving the hotel. The tavern is just a few steps away from the meeting room and offers a diverse menu.