Burnaby teens were among those who had a chance to immerse themselves in the world of filmmaking, thanks to a unique summer program.
The TELUS Summer Visions Film Institute for Youth is offered for teens through the efforts of the education department at Pacific Cinémathèque and Dream Big Productions at Templeton Secondary School.
The program gives teens a chance to write, shoot, edit and screen a short digital video, supported by professional mentors and filmmakers.
Films produced by the teens were recently screened at Pacific Cinémathèque.
Among the young filmmakers taking part in the summer program was Joey Lopez, a 17-year-old student from Cariboo Hill Secondary.
"I learned more things about acting. The experience was amazing and tons of fun," he said. "I enjoyed everything, but especially the way the mentors worked with us and the filming process. ... I chose to take part in it because I thought it would be a good way to get more experience in filming and to meet new people that are interested in film just as much as I am."
For Jennifer Hao, a 16year-old from Burnaby North Secondary, the program was also a learning experience.
"I learned quite a few new skills from the workshops that were offered, but interestingly enough I actually learned a lot more during the shooting process as I got to operate the camera, control sound, be the director, etc. It's great because as you're actually in the filmmaking process, if you have questions, your crew members can help you, and the mentors are definitely very helpful."
Hao says the best thing about the program was the hands-on experience.
"I used to be slightly interested in film and very curious as to what it would be like pursuing a career or side hobby out of it. Now I finally now," she said. "I feel like I have a whole new love and passion for film, because often you'll enjoy something more when you know how to do it."
Other Burnaby-based teens taking part in the program included Nathan Grout and Robert Siuda from Byrne Creek Secondary and Anthony Pichler from Moscrop Secondary.
For more about the program, see www.summer visions.ca.
