The Shoot Out 24 Hour Filmmaking Festival Boulder with the support of the Boulder Arts Commission is excited to announce a series of pre-Shoot Out workshops again.  These events are designed to help prepare the filmmakers for The Shoot Out Boulder which will occur on September 25-27, 2009.

These day long events will inspire film-makers to make a fast film while teaching them the methodology of successful short-form storytelling, lighting, directing, and in-camera editing.  Special emphasis will be paid to The Shoot Out’s official format and requirements.

The workshop is a great way to help filmmakers find their vision, learn problem solving skills, and meet new friends.  After this event, participants should have a head-start on preparing for the upcoming Shoot Out.

The challenge and skill involved becomes evident with the list of required technical, material, and timing ‘rules’ for creating the films. However courage isn’t always enough, so we are have found that the more we can provide to participants prior to the event in terms of knowledge and best practices, the better off everyone will be in terms of actually completing the event and getting their film into the competition. While attending this workshop doesn’t guarantee you will win, it does give you a firmer foundation on what is possible within the limitations imposed with a better chance of having your film seen. What do you have to lose?

There are three workshops scheduled for 2009. The last one is September 19, 2009.

Short Film Intensive at Colorado Free University, Denver, August 22, 9-4:30 PM Interested in making a film but don’t know how to start? Or have some experience and want to push yourself further? Then this filmmaker’s intensive is for you! Create and shoot a short film in one day using proven filmmaking tactics. Start by working with time, place, and character limitations to write a five-minute group inspired script. Then get help devising a storyboard, making a shot list, blocking out scenes, and directing using only in-camera editing techniques. Using a class supplied video camera, you will learn best practice techniques including professional audio and lighting tips. After a short lunch break, everyone gets to experience what they have learned: directing, acting, lighting, and shooting. Invite friends and family to view the completed short film at 4:30 p.m.

More Details and to Sign Up

Fast Film at The Shoot Out Boulder Office, September 12, 2009 10-4 PM

The workshop is free but donations will be gladly accepted. All participants must RSVP prior to the event.

Instructors:  Key team members of previous year winners as well as Michael Conti, Executive Director of the Festival.

What to bring:  Story ideas, friends, and personal video cameras.  Several cameras will be available during the course.

Cost:  Free (with a suggested donation of $20 per team)

Fast Film at The Shoot Out Boulder Office, September 19, 2009 10-4 PM

The workshop is free but donations will be gladly accepted. All participants must RSVP prior to the event.

Instructors:  Key team members of previous year winners as well as Michael Conti, Executive Director of the Festival.

What to bring:  Story ideas, friends, and personal video cameras.  Several cameras will be available during the course.

Cost:  Free (with a suggested donation of $20 per team)

To register for any of these workshops, please respond by email with your name, participant names, and which workshop you will be attending or use the following online form at http://www.theshootoutboulder.com/Shootout-pre-event_workshops.htm to submit your actual request.

If you are interested in helping support any of these workshops as a volunteer, please sign-up above.

Pre-Event Workshop Volunteers

Volunteers will be responsible for making pre-workshop runs smoothly, from working with participants in developing story, to actual hands-on demonstration of equipment and technique. Ideal volunteer should be past participant of The Shoot Out Boulder.