Program Filmmaking Basics

Questions? Call 801.532.7500 or email programs@spyhop.org.

Film

Filmmaking Basics

Learn to shoot, light, and choreograph scenes, and use filmmaking and sound gear.

COMING SOON
12–14 AGE RANGE
Free COST
September 14 – October 6, '26 DATE
Monday & Wednesday, 4:00 PM–6:00 PM SCHEDULE
Foundational SKILL LEVEL
Soundstage LOCATION

Registration opens 8/11/2026, 10:00 AM


Grab a camera, join the crew, and hit record. This beginner-friendly class is all about learning basic filmmaking skills and how film crews work together. You’ll team up to shoot scripted scenes, choreograph a chase, and break down how to capture a scene from multiple angles (a.k.a. coverage). You’ll also learn how to properly expose a shot, use sound gear, and set up lighting. There’s no pressure—just fun, skill-building, and lots of chances to try out new roles behind the camera and beyond.


Gear + Software:

  • Canon T6i DSLR cameras
  • Light panels
  • Boom mic kits
  • Adobe Premiere Pro

Great for anyone who wants to explore the basics of filmmaking in a relaxed, tech and teamwork sandbox. No experience needed.

Whitney Skauge

WHITNEY SKAUGE

Film Mentor

Howdy! My name is Whitney Skauge, and I’m a documentary filmmaker and portrait photographer originally from Bozeman, Montana. I am inspired by the belief that everyone has a story to tell. I love finding ways to document the softness and wonder hidden in everyday life. At Spy Hop, I love helping students discover the importance of their own stories, from the personal to the abstract.

I am grateful to have worked alongside incredible minds at film studios, media companies, and non-profits such as the two-time Academy Award® winning Breakwater Studios, the Sundance Institute, and Interloper Films.

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FREQUENTLY
ASKED QUESTIONS

Our classes are designed for in-person participation. Limited remote attendance may be possible in certain circumstances. Availability depends on the class format and is considered on a case-by-case basis.
Absolutely! Many of our students self-identify as neurodivergent. We keep our classes small so that our students have the best experience possible, and our professional teaching artists can accommodate different kinds of learners and ensure special needs are met.
We keep all our classroom spaces an adult/parent-free zone (excluding staff) to ensure students feel free in their creative expression. If you'd like to see the building and learn more about Spy Hop, you can schedule a tour with our team outside of class time.
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There are lots of ways you can support Spy Hop: make a donation, attend an event, sign up for our emails, follow us on social media, or spread the word about Spy Hop. However you can give and show up for youth voice, just know that we're grateful you're a part of it all.
We've found that small program sizes give the best opportunity for creative learning and mentorship—because of this, most of our classes have a capacity of ten students.
Most of our in-house programs are for ages 12–19 years old. We occasionally offer programs or workshops for young people ages 19-25. We offer spring and summer camps for younger kids ages 8-12.
After you fill out the form for a program, our team will get back to you within 10 business days to confirm your spot. This can include scheduling an interview or a check-in, or confirming your interest in the class.
Spy Hop has a small parking lot on the North side of our building and is first-come, first-served. You can enter this lot on 900 S between Spy Hop and Vertical Diner. 2-hour parking is available along 900 S. Street parking is available on 200 W and 300 W. Washington Street and Jefferson Street have limited public parking, with big sections of 2-hour only parking. Please pay close attention to signage to avoid a ticket! Paid parking is also available across the street, at Triangles bar. Limited parking passes are available for students: please visit the Lab for more information.
Currently enrolled students can checkout equipment for short-term use on projects. We do not offer equipment rentals to the general public. For more equipment information please see the Lab for more information, and check out our Gear Policy.
Our programs open for form submissions on Tuesdays at 10 am—five weeks before the program begins.