Media Arts

Video

Grades: 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12

Lighting may seem like one of the great mysteries of filmmaking, but much of it starts with something every filmmaker controls — blocking. Charleston-based Director of Photography Owen Hamilton shares...

Camera | NextLens Reel Skills

Video

Grades: 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12

The camera is more than a tool — it’s the storyteller’s voice. Charleston Director of Photography Owen Hamilton explains how aspect ratio, framing, and camera movement shape how audiences feel a story...

Music | NextLens Reel Skills

Video

Grades: 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12

Fort Mill filmmaker Thomas Torrey breaks down the critical role music plays in shaping the tone of a film. Whether it's an original score or a featured song, music can instantly transform the...

Design | NextLens Reel Skills

Video

Grades: 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12

Columbia, SC native director and writer, Shayla Raquel, shares why production design is essential to visual storytelling. From sets and props to costumes, color theory, and even title cards, every...

Editing | NextLens Reel Skills

Video

Grades: 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12

Fort Mill filmmaker and editor Thomas Torrey shares how video editing is storytelling in motion, using images, rhythm, and pacing to shape emotion and meaning. From wide shots to close-ups, every cut...

Storytelling | NextLens Reel Skills

Video

Grades: 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12

Columbia native director and writer Shayla Raquel reminds filmmakers that every great film begins with STORY. From character to conflict to transformation, STORY is the heart of filmmaking. Build your...