2026 Y-CAM Summer Programs
Testimonial:
"Attending the Y-CAM summer programs was a transformative experience for me! Although I was a bit unsure at first, the welcoming environment quickly put my nerves at ease. I learned so much about filmmaking, from storytelling to hands-on production. The mentorship was invaluable, and working alongside other passionate creators truly fueled my excitement. I’m incredibly proud of the short film we made together and can’t recommend this program enough for anyone eager to dive into the world of film!"
- Jayshawn Lester, 2025 Y-CAM High School Coordinator
Animation Course
Short Description:
This immersive five-week summer course lets young creators (ages 12-17) explore the art of storytelling through motion — whether in 2D, stop-motion or clay-animation. You’ll start by learning the fundamentals of keyframes, timing and movement, build your own characters and sets, then bring them to life with hands-on production.
Throughout the course, you will collaborate in small teams, receive mentorship from working animators, and culminate with a final screening of your original short-form animations.
All sessions run Monday, June 29– Friday, July 31, 2026, at the Foundry Church.
Long Description:
Get ready for an amazing summer in animation! Our five-week course invites young filmmakers aged 12-17 to explore storytelling through motion. You will learn about 2D animation, stop-motion, and clay-animation.
We start by teaching you key techniques like keyframes, timing, and movement. Then, you will use your creativity to design characters and sets, bringing your ideas to life through hands-on production.
This course is not just about learning. You will create stories while working with small teams. Industry professionals will mentor you, sharing valuable insights and advice.
The experience ends with a final screening where you can show your original short animations to friends, family, and fellow fans. Join us from Monday, June 29, to Friday, July 31, 2026, at Foundry Church. You will make friends, improve your skills, and leave with a portfolio piece to be proud of. Don’t miss this chance to spark your passion for filmmaking and animation!
Filmmaking Course
Short Description:
Open to high school students (ages 14-18), this five-week intensive will guide you through the full film-production pipeline: from concept and script, to shooting and post-production. In this course, you wll form production teams, experiment with camera and sound techniques, editing methods, and finish with a public screening of your short film. Whether you’re just discovering the power of the lens or aiming to polish your storytelling chops, this course gives you the tools and community to bring your vision into focus. Join us this summer at the Foundry Church on Monday, June 29– Friday, July 31, 2026.
Long Description:
Are you ready to start an exciting filmmaking journey this summer? If you are a high school student aged 14-18 who loves storytelling, join us for a five-week film production course that will improve your filmmaking skills!
In this course, you will learn about the entire filmmaking process. You will brainstorm ideas, write a script, shoot with professional equipment, and handle post-production. Work with other aspiring filmmakers, try out new camera techniques, and explore sound design. Learn how to edit your footage to create a short film that you can showcase at a public screening!
Mark your calendars for Monday, June 29 to Friday, July 31, 2026, and get ready for a fun summer at the Foundry Church. Whether you are new to filmmaking or want to improve your skills, this hands-on course will give you valuable experience and insights. Join a supportive community of fellow creators, unleash your creativity, and start your filmmaking journey!
On Location: Advanced Filmmaking (NEW!)
Short Description:
This brand-new, advanced five-week summer program is designed for students ready to push their craft further. Running Monday, June 29– Friday, July 31, 2026, it includes a two-week on-location trip (destination to be announced) where you will practice documentary filmmaking in real-world settings (domestic or international). Back on campus, you’ll deepen your production and editing skills, work with seasoned mentors and tackle themes of place, story and impact. The result: a sophisticated short documentary produced by your team, equipped not only with technical know-how but a global perspective as well.
Long Description:
Elevate your filmmaking skills with our exciting five-week summer program designed for high school filmmakers ready to explore their creativity! From June 29 to July 31, 2026, at the Foundry Church, you will go on an adventure beyond the classroom to discover the art of storytelling.
Spend two busy weeks filming on location, where you will learn about documentary filmmaking in lively real-world settings (destination to be announced soon!). This is your chance to try new techniques, capture memorable moments, and tell powerful stories that connect with people.
After returning from the trip, you will improve your production and editing skills. You will work with experienced mentors who are eager to help the next generation of filmmakers. You will explore important themes related to place, narrative, and impact, allowing your creativity to shine as you tackle real challenges in documentary filmmaking.
In the end, you will create a short documentary that shows your technical skills and your unique view as a filmmaker.
Are you ready to join us on this filmmaking adventure? Come and experience a summer that will turn your passion into great storytelling!