FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the mandate of the YFI Workshop Series?
"Empowering the next generation of documentary film makers with the creative, technical and ethical tools to improve the landscape of media - from the inside."

I have already taken a YFI Workshop and would like to keep going in this direction. Is there something more advanced available?
We are currently putting together a 'Rock the Doc' YFI Summer Doc School for July 2010. The Summer Program will be slightly more intensive and ideal for students headed to post-secondary pursuits. If you are interested, email youthfilms@gmail.com.

What happens at the YFI workshops?
You will make a short documentary; key word being YOU. At the workshops, we collaborate with students to come up with an idea for a doc, lay out the plan to make it. You are responsible for filming and editing on your own time with the mentoring and hands-on input from industry pro's along the way.

Expect to learn a LOT. It's the basics of story telling, camera work and editing designed for high-school students. Past students will tell you it's hard work, and they're right. But it's also a lot of fun, and pretty cool. It's interactive, relaxed and really, really creative. But, you will have lots of homework (i.e. shooting your doc, editing it.)

What kind of things will we learn?

Click here for an outline of the last workshops.


How do I register?
If you are interested in taking the YFI 2010 Workshops series, read through the FAQ's and submit your application ASAP.We are now accepting applications. There are a limited number of spots.

Who can apply?

Anyone interested in making a documentary can apply. However, there are some new rules for the 2010 workshops. Please read carefully:

Application Guidelines:
Students must work in teams of at least two or three people. They will take on the titles of
A)Creative Lead (E.g., Strengths in story telling, writing)
B)Technical Lead (E.g., Strengths using video camera, editing, lighting)
C)Production Lead (strengths in admin areas - making calls, setting up locations, getting permissions to interview).

Film making is a team sport, and all the duties can be shared, but combining the right strengths in your team will make it more productive and less stressful for you. Please include all names and contact info for your team when you apply.

Experience with a video camera and editing software is not required, but is an asset.

Preference will be given to students interested in pursuing a career in documentaries, film making, and journalism.

Your finished documentary must be 10 minutes or less.


Is there a cost to attend the workshops?
No. It's free.
(*Fees apply to private group workshops)

What should I bring to the workshops?
Bring something to take notes with and your video camera. We might use it every week, but then again, we might not.

Where and when will the workshops be held?

At the National Film Board of Canada, Toronto offices, 150 John Street, Toronto, Ontario. 

What equipment will I need?

Video Camera and Editing software. *For the Spring 2010 Student Workshops only* students will have access to Final Cut Studio, Apple's editing software as well as instructors who will help you. If you are already familiar with Final Cut, please indicate so in your application. You do not have to use Final Cut if you want to use something else you are familiar with.

Can I work alone or is it all teams?
Teams of 2-4 students required. See Guidelines above.

How long does a film have to be?
Maximum 10 minutes.

Is there a particular video format I have to work with?
Work with what ever format you want but make sure you have the right software to edit it.

Do I have to attend all of the workshops?
You or someone on your team does. It's better if you come to all of them. There are only a few after-all.

Will there be field trips?
Hopefully, yes. You'll be notified. We typically invite students on an (optional) tour of Discovery Channel studios in Scarborough,ON, and arrange a day doing practice field interviews.


Can I send a rough cut for feedback in between workshops?
Yes. Upload the project to this website or youtube or email them to youthfilms@gmail.com. You can also bring your footage and roughcuts to the workshops. You'll get feedback soon after. Include specific questions if you have any.

When is the submission deadline for my short documentary film?
You must submit your doc at the last workshop.

How do I submit my documentary?
You will have to supply 2 DVD copies that can be played in a DVD player, as well as an online version of your documentary.

What about the Gala Screening?
Selected completed films will be included in the annual Gala Screening. It showcases student projects and much more. See the screening of last's year's YFI students for a taste.

Speaking of the Gala, can I submit a film I made outside of this workshop series?
No.



Ok, Sold! Sign me up! Where do I register for the Spring 2010 Workshops?

Click on this link for application.
Click on this link for Private Group Workshops.