Storytelling | NextLens Reel Skills

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 world on the page before you pick up the camera.  

Learn more about how to submit your film to the 2026 NextLens Online Film Festival at scetv.org/nextlens.

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NextLens Reel Skills

Storytelling | NextLens Reel Skills Camera | NextLens Reel Skills

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Camera | NextLens Reel Skills
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...
Storytelling | NextLens Reel Skills Design | NextLens Reel Skills

Video

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Design | NextLens Reel Skills
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...
Storytelling | NextLens Reel Skills Editing | NextLens Reel Skills

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Editing | NextLens Reel Skills
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 Lighting | NextLens Reel Skills

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Lighting | NextLens Reel Skills
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...
Storytelling | NextLens Reel Skills Music | NextLens Reel Skills

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Music | NextLens Reel Skills
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...