Summer Film Camps

WHAT’S A FILM CAMP?

Join us this summer for an unforgettable cinematic adventure tailored for autistic youth at our inclusive Summer Film Camps. Budding filmmakers will immerse themselves in the art of storytelling, scriptwriting, and hands-on filmmaking techniques. From script to screen, participants experience all aspects of being on a film crew, share new ideas, and collaborate to produce their own original short films. Completed films will be shared on the BIG SCREEN at our Annual Gala and Screening event in November!

Register before February 12 to benefit from our early-bird discounts!

CAMP DATES

CAMP 1: General Camp
Ages 15+ | June 16 - 27
$1,100 (Register before February 12: $1,000)

Participants from every skill level can work collaboratively under the supervision of our staff, experiencing a variety of filmmaking roles from scriptwriting and storyboarding, to directing actors, using professional editing software and everything in between.

CAMP 2: Youth Camp
Ages 10 - 15 | June 30 - July 11
$1,100 (Register before February 12: $1,000)

For our younger creators, our youth camp focuses on hands-on experience as we recreate all aspects of an actual film crew, both in front of and behind the camera, learning the basics of production while producing original shorts, animation, documentaries, music videos and live action films.

CAMP 3: Advanced Camp
Ages 15+ | July 14 - August 1 (3 week camp)
$1,650 (Register before February 12: $1,500)

This camp is specifically designed for those who have already attended a Summer Film Camp previously and/or have more advanced skills. With more high-level techniques and an extra week for productions, our advanced campers will work together to create films like no other.

SUMMER CAMP 4: General Camp
Ages 15+ | August 4 - 15
$1,100 (Register before February 12: $1,000)

With the help of our talented staff, creators of all skill levels will dive into various aspects of filmmaking. From crafting scripts and storyboards, directing actors, and learning professional editing tools, everyone gets a hands-on experience.

PLEASE NOTE: we are open during all holidays falling between June 17th and August 16th.

HOW TO PREPARE for the first day:

  • Watch some of our favorite films we've produced over the past 12 years HERE!

  • Subscribe to our YouTube Channel, Instagram and Facebook page.

  • Come up with a film idea you can pitch to your group when you arrive on Day 1 of Summer Video Camp!

“I had a great time at summer camp, working with new friends to write, film and edit our movie. I improved my acting and animation skills, and got to use a green screen room for the first time. I was so proud when all our films were shown on screen in front of a huge audience at the Rialto Theatre. Since then I’ve shared our movie with family, friends, classmates and teachers and they’re impressed. Being part of the Spectrum Productions community is amazing!”
— Thomas K., Summer Camp Participant

  • We believe in encouraging and supporting the creative and social advancement of youth on the autism spectrum.

    We are committed to providing participants access to all aspects of film production, through the tools, equipment and guidance needed to pursue their cinematic dreams. Exposure to film equipment, paired with time to learn at one's own level and capacity, is what fosters participant's trust in their own ideas and contributions as valuable and innovative.

    We believe that artistic expression is the best way to share interests, find passion, and develop social networks in a collaborative setting.

    We are committed to providing a creative, nurturing space for participants to explore filmmaking, and appreciate all ideas, talents, and interests, suggesting the best ways to apply those to a team project.

  • Get ready for a cinematic adventure at our Summer Film Camp! Picture this: you and your creative squad making a 5-7 minute blockbuster from scratch. It's like Hollywood, but mini-sized and way more fun!

    Here's the lowdown on what's waiting for you:

    Choose Your Blockbuster Idea: Brainstorm with your crew and pick the perfect plot. Action, drama, comedy – or a mix!

    Script Writing: Write a script that's 5-7 minutes of creativity and excitement.

    Character Development: Design your own charaiter and whip up costumes and props from scratch that'll steal the spotlight.

    Shotlist & Storyboard: Learn the secrets of making killer shotlists and storyboards. Planning your shoot is super important!

    Act or Direct, Your Call: Jump in front of the camera or call the shots behind it. You're the boss of your movie-making destiny!

    On-Location Adventures: Grab your gear and hit the streets or dive into our revamped green screen room.

    Virtual Production Vibes: Dive into the world of virtual production setups and create the locations of your dreams. Movie-making meets futuristic tech!

    Editing Extravaganza: Master the basics of editing and post-production.

    Big Screen Debut: Watch your masterpiece come to life on the big screen at our spectacular Spectrum Annual Gala in November. Cue the red carpet!

  • All summer camp films are premiered on the big screen at our Annual Gala and Screening in November! PLUS, your film will also be shared on our YouTube Channel with a special premiere screening. We’ll let you know when your film will be aired!

    If desired by the participants, we also submit films to other film festivals for real film credits for participants! We have shown films at Fantasia International Film Festival, Museum of the Moving Image, New York City and others!

  • 10:15-12:00 - Morning Work Session (w/ 10min break)

    12:00-1:00 - Lunch

    1:00-3:00 - Afternoon Work Session

    3:30 - time to go home!