Empowering the next generation of storytellers in Connecticut.
A hands-on filmmaking program for young adults in the greater CT community. Over 12 weeks, emerging creators write, shoot, and edit a collective short film—guided by industry mentors and working professionals.
Limited seats • Priority for CT residents
- For ages 17–25
- No prior experience required
- Meets weekly on the weekends for three month sessions
- Culminates in a community screening of a collective short film
- Films will be entered into the Film Festival circuit.
Join the interest list
Be the first to know when applications open for the next session.
We’ll never share your information. Parent/guardian contact required for students under 18.
Program Snapshot
A safe, supportive space to learn the craft of filmmaking.
We pair creative exploration with industry-standard production training. Join a crew of local creatives to bring a story to life and walk away with a professional credit on a completed short film.
Who it’s for
The CT Young Filmmakers Initiative is a selective, intensive program designed to bridge the gap between amateur interest and professional craft. By providing high school seniors and young adults (ages 18–25) with hands-on experience, industry-standard mentorship, and a collaborative environment, the initiative aims to foster a new wave of cinematic talent in Connecticut.
What they’ll do
- Develop an original story idea
- Produce and create industry-standard workflows
- Learn camera, sound & lighting basics
- Collaborate on a short film as a crew from pre to post production
Program details
Format: 12 week program for young adults
Location: Blaq Pearl Photography Studios, Bridgeport, CT
Schedule: Weeknds
Showcase: Final community screening with families & friends
INSIDE THE COURSE
From first idea to final cut.
Each week blends creative exercises, technical demos, and hands-on crew time. Walk away with a complete short film and a clearer sense of your voice as a storyteller.is a Paragraph Font
Weeks 1–2: Concept & Screenwriting
Focus: The Foundation
Develop original story ideas and translate them into production-ready scripts. This phase focuses on visual storytelling, character arcs, and creating the structural "blueprints" required for a successful film.
Weeks 3–4: Cinematic Fundamentals
Focus: The Technical Toolkit
Master the tools of the trade. Dive into camera operation, lens selection, and high-fidelity audio recording using industry-standard techniques designed for the modern independent filmmaker.
Weeks 5–6: Lighting & On-Set Safety
Focus: Craft & Environment
Learn to "paint with light" while managing a professional set environment. This module emphasizes visual mood-setting, electrical basics, and the essential safety protocols of a working production.
Weeks 7–8: Directing & Creative Leadership
Focus: The Human Element
Explore the vital relationship between director and actor. Practice blocking for the camera and learn how to effectively communicate a complex creative vision to a diverse production crew.
Weeks 9–10: Production Intensive
Focus: The Guild in Action
The collective moves into principal photography. Collaborators rotate through specialized crew roles—from Cinematographer to Sound Mixer—to bring the script to life on a professional set.
Weeks 11–12: Post-Production & Premiere
Focus: The Final Cut
Assemble the narrative through non-linear editing, sound design, and color grading. The program culminates in a public community screening, marking the transition from creator to credited filmmaker.
Inside the Course
The Producer’s Track (Spanning Weeks 1–12)
Focus: Leadership & Logistics
For collaborators stepping into the Creative Producer role, this track runs parallel to the technical modules, guiding them through the complete logistical lifecycle of a real-world film.
Pre-Production (Weeks 1–8)
Master the logistics of bringing a story to life. Break down scripts, build efficient shooting schedules, secure locations, and coordinate casting to ensure the crew is fully prepared for day one.
Production (Weeks 9–10)
Run the set. Manage daily operations, distribute professional call sheets, enforce on-set safety protocols, and solve real-time logistical challenges to keep the production on time and on vision.
Post-Production & Release
(Weeks 11–12)
Steer the final deliverables. Oversee the post-production timeline, manage the marketing assets, develop a festival submission strategy, and organize the final community premiere.
Learning Outcomes
More than filmmaking—Building a community and a real world skillset.
Creative confidence
Collaborators learn to pitch original concepts, integrate professional feedback, and manage a complex project from the initial blank page to premiere night
Collaboration skills
Film sets are team sports. Emerging filmmakers practice high-stakes communication, leadership, and real-time problem-solving in a fast-paced production environment
Technical foundations
Master camera, sound, and editing workflows that serve as a launchpad for professional portfolios, industry certifications, and long-term career paths.
Community connection
Creators see their unique perspectives reflected on screen while building a lasting network with peers, industry mentors, and local arts organizations.
Educators + working filmmakers, side by side.
The CT Young Filmmakers Initiative is led by teaching artists with classroom experience and active projects in film, TV, and digital media.
Meet the FOUNDER
Andre Griffith
Program Director • Filmmaker & Instructor
As Program Director and Lead Instructor, Andre Griffith brings a wealth of industry experience to the CT Young Filmmakers Initiative. His work is centered on the belief that cinematic storytelling is a powerful tool for community connection. By providing hands-on mentorship and professional-grade curriculum, Andre guides young adult filmmakers in Connecticut as they bring their visions to life and build a lasting network within the local arts community.
Ready to bring your cinematic vision to the screen?
A Quick Note Before You Apply
A tuition-free initiative for emerging creators
Priority given to local Connecticut residents
Basic working knowledge of production preferred
Don't wait! Apply for the next CT Young Filmmakers Initiative cohort Today.
Have questions before you apply? Email us at [email protected]
Lights. Camera. Action!
We select a limited number of collaborators each cycle to keep our production crews small and hands-on. Add your information below and our team will reach out with next steps, key dates, and enrollment details.
Questions from CT families.
If you don’t see your question here, reach out and a member of our team will be happy to help.
Do students need prior filmmaking experience?
No. The CT Young Filmmakers Initiative is designed for beginners and students who are simply curious about storytelling and media. We’ll meet each participant where they are and offer more advanced challenges for students with previous experience.
How much does the program cost?
We are committed to keeping the program accessible. Tuition varies by session length, and we offer sliding-scale pricing and scholarships for qualifying families. Share your information above and our team will follow up with current rates and funding options.
What is the time commitment?
The core program meets once a week on a weekday afternoon (about 2 hours), plus one Saturday shoot day and an evening community screening. We ask that students attend consistently so their crews can rely on them.
Is equipment provided?
Yes. We provide cameras, sound gear, and editing stations at our partner space. Students are welcome, but not required, to bring phones or personal devices for certain exercises.
How are students supported and kept safe?
All instructors and mentors complete background checks and follow youth safety guidelines. We maintain clear behavior expectations, have adult supervision at all times, and partner with families if any concerns arise.
Help a young filmmaker see their name in the credits.
Your support keeps our initiative 100% tuition-free. Help provide the gear, resources, and mentorship our emerging creators need by making a financial contribution or donating professional equipment.
© 2026 CT Young Filmmakers Initiative · New Haven, Connecticut