Learn AI Filmmaking at NYFA
In NYFA’s 1-Week Teen AI Filmmaking Workshop, students are introduced to the core disciplines of filmmaking, including directing, writing, and editing, while exploring how generative AI can support their creative process. This hands-on program is designed for young storytellers who want to learn the fundamentals of visual storytelling while experimenting with new ways to develop ideas through AI-assisted visualization and iteration. Guided by industry professionals, students follow NYFA’s learn-by-doing approach and complete a short film that reflects both creative intention and a growing understanding of cinematic storytelling.
Workshop Description
The 1-Week Teen AI Filmmaking Workshop introduces students to a fast-paced, hands-on approach to filmmaking that blends traditional storytelling with emerging AI tools. Students learn the fundamentals of story structure, scene development, directing, and editing while working through a simplified creative process of writing, visualizing, and refining.
Throughout the week, students develop a short film project by exploring ideas through writing, planning visuals, and experimenting with AI tools to generate images, shot concepts, and stylistic direction. Emphasis is placed on clear storytelling, basic film language, and creative decision-making so that AI supports the student’s vision rather than replacing it.
By the end of the workshop, students complete one short film project that demonstrates their understanding of story, visual planning, and editing within an AI-supported workflow.
Course Description
Directing
Students are introduced to how directors shape a story through camera placement, shot selection, and basic staging. Through guided exercises, they learn to break down a simple scene into key moments and decide how to show those moments visually. Students explore how different shot choices affect emotion and meaning. AI tools are used to test visual ideas, explore shot options, and experiment with style, while keeping decisions grounded in story and character.
AI Imaging, Video, and Literacy
Students build a basic understanding of how AI tools generate images and video, along with when and how to use them effectively. Through hands-on activities, they create visual references such as characters, environments, and mood images to support their projects. Instruction focuses on simple prompt building using film concepts like lighting, framing, and action. Students also discuss responsible and ethical use of AI, including originality and creative ownership.
Editing
Students learn how editing shapes a story through timing, pacing, and structure. They are introduced to basic editing techniques, including cutting clips, organizing footage, and building a clear beginning, middle, and end. Students work on assembling their project and refining it through simple revisions. They are encouraged to think about how editing choices impact clarity and audience understanding.
Writing
Students develop a short story idea using core concepts such as character, conflict, and structure. They write a simple script or outline that will serve as the foundation for their final project. Writing is approached as a flexible process, with opportunities to revise ideas based on visual exploration and feedback. AI may be used to support brainstorming and idea development, but students are expected to shape and finalize their own story.
Learning Outcomes
By the end of the 1-Week Teen AI Filmmaking Workshop, students will be able to:
- Develop a short story with a clear beginning, middle, and end
- Translate a written idea into a simple visual plan using basic shot types
- Apply foundational directing concepts to communicate emotion and meaning
- Use AI tools to generate visual references and support creative decision-making
- Demonstrate basic editing skills, including cutting for clarity, pacing, and continuity
- Complete a short film that reflects their understanding of storytelling and visual structure
- Identify responsible and ethical ways to use AI within a creative project
Equipment and Software:
Equipment:
- Cinema Camera
- Lighting Kit
- Sound Recording Kit
Software:
- Photoshop
- Premiere
- After Effects
- Comfy.ui
AI Platforms:
To be determined by the professor based on the most recent development, but could include: Google Flow, Vertex, Nano Banana, Running Hub, Midjourney, Images 2, Seedance, Eleven Labs, Suno, Freepik, ChatGPT.
1-Week AI Filmmaking For Teens
| Location | Program Start Date and End Date | Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles | July 19, 2026 – July 25, 2026 | Tuition:$1,725 |