New Media Summer Stories Experience: A Filmmaking Program for Teens

Calling all aspiring filmmakers, storytellers, and creatives! This one-of-a-kind summer program invites high school students to explore the exciting world of video storytelling through a hands-on, collaborative experience.

Over 10 weeks, participants will move through every stage of pre-production. Working in teams, they’ll brainstorm story ideas, write scripts, plan shoots, and prepare production materials. With support from media professionals and local alumni of the High School Media Collective, students will gain real-world insight into how stories are brought to life on screen.

The final weekend offers a thrilling challenge—a 72-hour filmmaking sprint. During this fast-paced experience, students will take on roles such as directing, acting, editing, sound design, and cinematography. They’ll produce a short film from start to finish, gaining practical skills and a deeper understanding of how a creative team operates under pressure.

In addition to technical training, students will walk away with a completed film project for their portfolio, stronger communication skills, and the confidence that comes from creating something meaningful. The program fosters not just creativity but also collaboration, resilience, and problem-solving—skills essential to any creative career.

Open to high school students ages 14 to 18, this experience is perfect for beginners and seasoned storytellers alike. Whether you’re curious about filmmaking or already passionate about media, this is your chance to grow, create, and connect.

About the Program

Now in its 5th year, New Media Summer Stories gives students the chance to collaborate with peers who love filmmaking. Together, they produce a meaningful short film that follows the guidelines of the All American High School Film Festival’s Complete Experience.

Each student takes on a role in Pre-Production, Production, or Post-Production, depending on their interests and experience. The Pre-Production phase starts 10 weeks before filming. At that time, organizers share the prompt and rules with all participants.

Students form a writing team, and they select a producer and director based on experience and creative vision. They also organize departments for each stage of production: