London Film Academy Holds Open House

Free filmmaking training on Sunday

If you have always wanted to explore what goes on behind the cameras, now's your chance. The London Film Academy in Walham Grove is opening its doors on July 26 for Reel Summer - an opportunity for local people to find out more about the film production process and get free hands on experience.

Reel Summer, run by London Film Academy, or LFA, along with Rushes Soho Shorts Festival, is a programme of free training activities covering the key technical and creative aspects of filmaking.

Guest will also have the chance to mingle with the film & TV industry the academy's barbecue and relaxation zone.

Among the activities on offer between 1pm and 5pm on Sunday are:

A seminar from BAFTA-winning Director Richard Kwietniowski and an introduction to digital visual effects for low-budget productions with VFX Supervisor Alan Marques.

Editing, writing and producing surgeries, 20-minute one-to-one sessions where emerging film makers can discuss their projects

Practical camera and lighting workshops using Arri equipment – plus Chameleon dolly with hydraulic jib arm

Editing demonstrations on both Final Cut and Avid packages

CV advice from Skillset, the industry body that ensures the UK creative media industries maintain their world-class position

A demonstration of how to use Entertainment Partners Budgeting and Scheduling production-management programmes, the industry-standard software

Screenings during the day will include:

LFA showcase screening featuring the best films from LFA Filmmaking Diploma students, followed by a discussion with the filmmakers about their experiences of making these films

The UK premiere of short films from Australia’s Shorts Film Festival

An introduction to the brand-new courses at LFA: Advanced Screenwriting Diploma; First Feature Diploma; and Documentary Certificate

On the LFA’s green screen meanwhile there will be an exclusive screening of short film The Taxidermist, the winner of the Best Live Action Short at Palm Springs International ShortFest.

Reel Summer will also offer a chill-out networking zone, food and fresh juices provided by Moosh, and acoustic music from producer and composer James Wilkinson and friends.

All events are free but some require pre-booking on a first-come, first-served basis, so to reserve your place, email Vicki Mitra at events@londonfilmacademy.com before Thursday July 23.