Make a film and meet other young LGBTQ+ and ally filmmakers this summer! Reel Queer Youth (RQY) is a video production and media literacy program for high school aged LGBTQ+ youth and allies. High school aged means those entering high school this fall, up to those graduating this spring, prior to camp. Participants will explore the many facets of filmmaking and will make a film using whatever media they have available. The program will include Zoom meetings and instruction, in a safe, open, and fun environment with professional instructors and teaching artists.

During this week-long online camp, participants will explore queer cinema, and create a film using media and tools they have available. We’ll learn about different film genres, such as narrative, documentary, and experimental, and how story and identity can be shared through each. We’ll also cover how filmmaking practices for planning productions, recording video and sound, and editing can be used to create dynamic films for various platforms, from the big screen to your phone screen. We’ll celebrate our stories and experiences and build connections that are so important for creative work.

Registration is sliding scale (free to $250), and by application. Applications will be reviewed as received. Upon acceptance into the camp, info to complete registration will be emailed to you.

What technology and supplies are needed to participate?

1. Camp sessions will take place over Zoom, and you will be sent info on necessary free apps and file sharing after registration.

2. Each camper will need mobile device, such as an iPhone or Android phone, or other tablet with a camera, OR another type of digital camera and a computer. We’ll go over how to use the apps, recording, and editing in the camp.

If you’d like to register for the camp, but need help with or have questions about the technology and supplies that will be needed, please email jonah@nwfilmforum.org for more info and options.

Time commitment

– This camp will meet on zoom, Monday-Friday from 11am-2pm. Zoom meetings will include filmmaking instruction, collaborative and individual projects, and hang out time to get to know each other.

How We Create a Safer Camp Environment

Though we cannot guarantee a safe space, we commit to supporting the group in creating a safer space, together. A safer space is a supportive, non-threatening environment where all participants can feel comfortable to express themselves and share experiences without fear of discrimination or reprisal. We use the word safer to acknowledge that safety is relative: not everyone feels safe under the same conditions. By acknowledging the experiences of each person in the room, we hope to create as safe an environment as possible.

Conversations surrounding growth, especially in areas connected to identity and privilege are not always safe for everyone, but are often necessary to create strong community and foster mutual learning and accountability.

By entering this space you are committing to being held accountable by the group and its facilitators for the effects of your words and actions. As a group of individuals with diverse identities and experiences we understand that interpersonal/group issues might arise, and that’s okay! Sometimes you don’t intend to harm someone, but harm is done regardless. We as individuals and community members are responsible for the impacts that come from our actions.

Part of the power of bringing diverse communities together is to challenge ourselves to best evolve and create and showcase queer film in a way that reflects the vast spectrums of our LGBTQIA2+ communities. By uplifting the voices of the most marginalized, including through film, we can create greater change.