Short Film Lab

03/08/2026-09/08/2026

Date:

3-9 August 2026 (Arrival on August 2, departure on August 9)

General Info:

Short Film Lab is a 6-day intensive filmmaking camp centered on visual storytelling and hands-on production. Participants work collectively to develop one or two short films from initial concept to final screening. The program balances structured instruction with practical exercises, encouraging participants to explore cinema as a visual language while learning the fundamentals of directing, cinematography, editing, and storytelling.
No prior professional experience is required; however, participants are expected to be motivated, curious, and actively involved in all stages of the process. Participants are encouraged to bring their own cameras, phones, or laptops if available, though this is not mandatory.

Aim:

The purpose of Short Film Lab is to guide participants through the complete filmmaking workflow—idea development, scriptwriting, visual planning, production, post-production, and screening—within a collaborative and supportive environment. The camp aims to strengthen visual thinking, cultivate creative collaboration, and provide practical experience in transforming ideas into finished films. Emphasis is placed on learning through practice, discussion, and reflection.

Prerequisition:

English conversational level is favorable for this camp.

Target group:

18 and above, with exceptions for promising younger applicants.

Price:

The camp fee includes four meals a day, accommodation, classes, and all basic necessities. The price is 15,950 TL for dormitories and 13,950 TL for tents. Excursions are not included in the fee.

Quota:

16 participants. The quota is full.

Contact Person:

Ceren Aydın - cerenaydin@nesinkoyleri.org

Application:

Once we receive your application, we will send you a confirmation message to let you know we have received it. If you do not receive a message within three to four days, please contact us again, as your application probably did not reach us.

Registration info:

Applications will be reviewed in batches. Your application outcome will be communicated via email within approximately 15 days. All payment and registration procedures will take place after your application has been accepted.

Program:

Day 1: Foundations of Visual Storytelling

  • 9:00 am – 10:30 am: A quick meet and greet. Discussions about cinema as a visual experience: What constitutes a compelling scene?
  • 10:45 am – 12:00 pm: Framing Exercise. A discussion of the results for a deeper understanding.
  • 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm: A lecture about Types of Shots.
  • *1:00 pm – 4:00 pm: Lunch Break*
  • 4:00 pm – 5:30 pm: What you need to know about Cameras and Lenses.
  • 5:45 pm – 8:00 pm: A brainstorming session about how we want to proceed with the camp.

Day 2: From Inspiration to Idea

  • 9:00 am – 10:30 am: Ideas and Stories: Where to find inspiration? Writing an outline, knowing your story and your characters.
  • 10:45 am – 1:00 pm: The 5 W’s for character. Plot points, Story beats, Character Arcs, and Act Breaks. Writing exercise: creating stories from prompts.
  • *1:00 pm – 4:00 pm: Lunch Break*
  • 4:00 pm – 5:30 pm: Group brainstorming for film ideas. Vote for 1-2 ideas to develop.
  • 5:30 pm – 8:00 pm: Specialized Group Work:
    • Writers: Draft a story outline and key questions.
    • Cinematographers: Create a mood-board with visual references.
    • Editors: Research editing styles and transitions.

Day 3: Pre-Production & Planning

  • 9:00 am – 10:30 am: Presenting Script drafts for feedback and finalization.
  • 10:45 am – 1:00 pm: Shot-list Introduction; how to plan the shoot.
  • *1:00 pm – 4:00 pm: Lunch Break*
  • 4:00 pm – 6:00 pm: Camera, blocking, light, and acting workshop (rehearsing scenes).
  • 6:15 pm – 8:00 pm: Location scouting (key crew) & Finalizing shot-list/storyboard. Create shooting schedule.

Day 4: Production Day 1

  • 9:00 am – 1:00 pm: Full Shooting Block.
  • *1:00 pm – 4:00 pm: Lunch Break*
  • 4:00 pm – 8:00 pm: Full Shooting Block.

Day 5: Post-Production & Pickups

  • 9:00 am – 11:00 am: Introduction to Editing and basic sound-design.
  • 11:15 am – 1:00 pm: Live editing workshop (projector).
  • *1:00 pm – 4:00 pm: Lunch Break*
  • 4:00 pm – 8:00 pm: Filming Wrap & Pickups: Shoot any missed shots or inserts.

Day 6: Refinement & Polish

  • 9:00 am – 1:00 pm: Contingency Block: Continue shooting if absolutely necessary. Otherwise, focus on editing.
  • *1:00 pm – 4:00 pm: Lunch Break*
  • 4:00 pm – 6:30 pm: Finalizing the Rough-cut of the film(s).
  • 6:30 pm – 8:00 pm: Basic color correction and grading.
  • 10:00 pm: Screening, feedback & Celebration Party.

Instructors:
1-Mohammad Mouselmani
2-Sarah Beyh
3-TBA: We are in contact with multiple industry professionals for the 3rd Instructor, however due to their busy schedule, we will confirm who will be available during the dates when we get closer to the camp dates.