FILMSTERS Academy was founded by nationally recognized award-winning filmmakers Patti White and Lee Anderson in 2002 because they wanted to offer kids a chance to learn the art of filmmaking from a young age.
FILMSTERS Academy, now heading into its seventh year, really offers young people the chance to get "hands on" experience making short films. We have an 85% return rate of students, many of whom have attended for 4 or 5 years. Some of these students are now in film programs at some of the top film schools in America.
At each level, they pitch, write, direct, shoot and edit these films. There are three programs of instruction, including; Beginners (one week), Intermediates (two weeks) and the Advanced program (14 continuous days.) Camp takes place each summer during the first two weeks of August on the campus of Key School in Annapolis, MD.
We have an outstanding and eclectic staff with varied educational backgrounds and experience in the world of filmmaking. In addition, Intermediate and Advanced students get to experience working with guest industry professionals on site.
In 2007, the FILMSTERS Foundation was formed to provide opportunities for kids and pros to work together to create films. This newly formed FILMSTERS Foundation will provide partial and full scholarships for economically challenged, at-risk youth who show creative potential and lack the resources to attend FILMSTERS Academy.
Scholarships are also available through The Young Filmmakers of Annapolis Fund.
The Foundation's secondary purpose is to provide internship opportunities for young people while creating media tools and outreach for films with social or educational relevance.
We would very much like to thank our grantors and sponsors for helping to create these possibilities.