Aspiring young filmmakers from across Te Whanganui-a-Tara recently stepped behind the camera to experience the world of screen production during a hands-on filmmaking taster workshop.
Ākonga from Paraparaumu College, Wellington High School, Wellington College, Wellington Girls' College, Onslow College, Aotea College and Naenae College came together for a day of creativity, collaboration and practical learning, exploring the many roles involved in bringing a screen production to life.
Following an introduction to the industry from Whitireia and WelTec Film and Television Production kaiako Bret Nichols, ākonga were split into three production crews to storyboard, shoot and produce a six-frame film sequence. Throughout the day, they rotated through a variety of on-set roles, including camera operator, lighting technician, grip crew member and director, gaining valuable insight into the technical skills and teamwork required in a professional production environment.
With plenty of enthusiasm and industry know-how, current Whitireia and WelTec ākonga from the New Zealand Diploma in Screen Production (Level 5) helped guide the action behind the scenes. Whether demonstrating camera techniques, setting up lights or sharing tips from life on set, they helped create a supportive and fun environment where the future filmmakers could shine.
The workshop gave local secondary school ākonga a real taste of screen production, from creative storytelling and problem-solving to working as part of a production team. For some, it was their first experience on a film set, while for others it was an opportunity to develop existing skills and explore future study and career pathways. Most importantly, the day offered insight into the creativity, collaboration and excitement that make screen production such a rewarding and dynamic industry.
