The Teen Producers Academy at the Maysles Documentary Center was first launched in 2006 with the intention of bringing children in the Harlem community access to the tools and confidence they need to become creative participants in digital media rather than passive consumers of it. Youth are taught filmmaking techniques using a simple approach that emphasizes direct observation and personal experience. Additionally, we hope to provide participants with a fresh perspective through the camera lens on the beauty and importance of their own lives. True to the philosophy of Maysles Films, our instructors are committed to filming with a faith in reality and commitment to truth. We take new students every summer for an immersive program, and select students to continue their work through the fall and spring in our after school program.

ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR 2013 SUMMER DOCUMENTARY INTENSIVE
(deadline to apply: May 31, 2013)

The Teen Producers Academy is committed to connecting young people from the Harlem, Northern Manhattan, and South Bronx communities to the resources and support they need to become active storytellers and creative participants in digital media. Under the guidance of film professionals, youth are taught documentary filmmaking techniques using an approach that emphasizes direct observation and personal experience. Our goal is to provide participants a thought-provoking and transformative experience in creating moving and honest films about subjects important to young people and their communities.
The Teen Producer’s Academy has two cycles:

•  The Summer Documentary Film Intensive, a six-week program that runs from July to mid-August.

•  The After-School Program is a year-long program that meets twice a week after-school from October to May. Participants from the Summer program often continue into this second-tier program. Additional students are recruited upon available space.

SUMMER DOCUMENTARY FILM INTENSIVE
Dates: July 8, 2013- August 16, 2013 (Mondays, Wednesdays and Friday)
Time:10am-4pm
Ages: 14 to 17
Tuition: Free!

To Apply: Download the APPLICATION & email completed form to [email protected]

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:

WHAT WILL YOU LEARN?
You will learn how to produce a short documentary film while working within a small production team. You will learn how to use a camera, how to frame interviews, how to work with microphones and the use of natural light. You will also learn how to interview people and engage them in sophisticated conversation. You will also learn how to edit on professional editing software, Final Cut Pro.
WHAT IS THE AGE REQUIREMENT?
We are looking for students between the ages of 14 and 18. You must be enrolled in high school.
ARE THERE ANY GEOGRAPHICAL REQUIREMENTS?
Everyone is welcome to apply, however, we do give preference to students from the five boroughs.
WHAT TYPE OF STUDENT ARE WE LOOKING FOR?
We are looking for people who love film and have a genuine interest in learning how to produce a documentary film. We are looking for young people who are artistic, want to tell a good story and are motivated to work behind the camera in telling that story. In addition, we would like to work with young people who are mature, sophisticated and willing to work in groups.
HOW ARE PARTICIPANTS SELECTED?
Everyone must complete the application and respond to the questions on a separate paper. All answers MUST BE TYPED. Select applicants will be asked to interview with institute staff. Based on the quality of your written responses and interview, we will make a decision on who will be selected.
IF SELECTED, WHAT IS REQUIRED OF ME?
You do not need to own or have access to any camera or computer equipment. The institute will provide all the necessary tools, including transportation fare for trips, however, you will be responsible for providing your own lunch as well as providing transportation to and from the institute. You will also be responsible for bringing your best and most creative ideas to the group.

For any other related question please email [email protected].