SFSDF CLASS 2 GRADUATE, CHRISTEPH BUCKLEY, WINS “BEST FANTASY SHORT FILM” AT NEW YORK INTERNATIONAL INDEPENDENT FILM & VIDEO FESTIVAL

The New York International Independent Film & Video Festival has honored “Halfway There”, the thesis film written and directed by SFSDF Class 2 Graduate, Christeph Buckley, as “Best Fantasy Short Film”. The film, which stars SFSDF film acting alumni Annie Scott Rogers, Sarah Schwartzmann and Linden Young, screened at the festival's west coast edition, in Hollywood on March 2nd. As a result of the award, the film and filmmaker will be represented by ITN Distribution, in the Cannes issue if IFQ magazine and to the Cannes Film Market 2007, American Film Market 2007, NATPE 2008, and will screen on the Independent Movie Channel (east coast, video on demand).  Additionally, SpellCasters (www.spellcasters.com) has asked for and been granted exclusive worldwide broadband distribution rights, in eight languages.
 
This is all a huge boost toward the financing and production of the feature length "Halfway There" scheduled to begin shooting in mid June of this year. The filmmaker sends deepest thanks and gratitude to the faculty and staff of SFSDF because, in his words, "I couldn't have done it without ya!"
 
http://www.flyinfurfilms.com/thenewhalfwaytherepics.htm

STACI DEGAGNE’S STORY

“I am 21-years old and I grew up in Las Vegas Nevada. Pretty average existence there, considering the town.   My parents bought a digital camcorder when I was a sophomore in high school and I was immediately hooked.  I started learning the basic editing software myself and even produced a documentary about my cross-country team.

After graduating high school, I moved to Reno to attend the University of Nevada, Reno (UNR).  My chosen major was Broadcast Journalism. Because the local PBS station was located on campus, I decided I might as well try getting an internship while I was at school.  Although they were not offering any paid positions (PBS being a low budget kind of a place) they told me that I was welcome to start as a volunteer, helping out in the tape library.  I took it.  

So after working as a volunteer for about three or four months, a position opened up as an on-air operator (the guy or gal who sets up program tapes, sets levels and essentially pushes all the buttons to put programs on air).  I immediately let them know that I was interested and they gave me the job.  Although it wasn't really a creative job at all, and I was only getting paid minimum wage, it was a great experience for me.  Oftentimes, I would have to work on stuff in the edit bay, which was where all the local shows were cut and where all the producers and editors would hang out.  I've always considered myself a creative person more than a technical person, therefore, it was also frustrating to be in an environment where everyone around me was editing and shooting and creating all this cool stuff...while I sat on the sidelines and pushed buttons.  At the same time, school was also frustrating me because it all felt like exercises, exercises, and exercises.  I wanted to actually produce something tangible and substantial.  I was sort of impatient that way.  

This led me to start researching film schools specifically, hands-on film schools.  One Google search led me to SFSDF and the rest is history.  No, but one visit to the school and I knew this was the place for me.  I talked with a student who was in the process of editing his own film, a film that he wrote, he directed, he produced.  It was amazing.  I made my decision that day.  

I started SFSDF in March of '06.  I feel like I really lucked out because my class, Class 3, was an amazing group of people.  It was funny, but even though our class was filled with people who were young, old or in-between, from different backgrounds, etc. we all really bonded and clicked because we shared the same entrepreneurial mindset, and the need to express ourselves.  I don't know, but it was cool.  Not only were the students great, but the staff was amazing as well.  Due to the intimate atmosphere, we really got to know our instructors and they always offered candid advice and wisdom which was priceless to me something I couldn't get anywhere else I really believe that.  

I think it was after the second project (the documentary) that I realized editing was my main interest.  Therefore, when January rolled around, and it was time to sign up for positions for the feature, I knew that I would only sign up for assistant editor.  There was really nothing else I wanted to do.  I lucked out because not too many other people wanted to work it, so I was able to work both my weeks as assistant editor.  From there, I really lucked out because after production wrapped, James told me that he would be editing the film himself, and told Brandon Hamilton and I that we could help as assistant editors if we wanted (since we had already been doing it during production) I jumped at the opportunity.  The idea that I could help out on a real film, in a position that I knew I loved…it was completely...cool!

We have been working since mid-February and are now putting the finishing touches on the film.  Although the experience wasn't always easy, it was absolutely amazing.  James really treated Brandon and I like professionals, and for that, I am truly grateful.  That kind of trust and responsibility forces you to really take the bull by the horns, work hard, learn stuff you don't know, so you can continue to work on the film and not look like a total idiot.  I learned more in the last 4 or 5 months than I did in a whole year and a half of college.   Not only did I become more comfortable and proficient in Final Cut Pro, but also the whole process of post-production became graspable.  I understand what it takes to get a movie finished...how dedicated the director, James, had to be.  Editing has become more intuitive and although I still have a lot of progress to make, I feel like this experience gave me a running start.  

Thanks to the support of SFSDF and a great recommendation by James, I was able to land a job with Scott from Podango Productions.  I will be working for him as a "Production Assistant."  Basically, I will be assisting him in the development and production of podcasts, getting paid to shoot and edit!  One of the most important lessons my parents ever taught me was know what you love to do and work hard at it, and you will be fulfilled.  Right now I just feel really blessed that I have been given the opportunity to pursue my passion for editing and filmmaking and get a salary too.  I was able to quit my job as a waitress and now can focus all my attention on growing as a professional in my career of choice.  I know that I have all of SFSDF (staff and my fellow classmates) to thank for that.”

Staci DeGagne
Digital Filmmaking Program, Mar ‘06 – Mar ‘07
clowninthemoon85@gmail.com

Staci's Film, "Winging It"

TYLER WILLIS FINDS FILMMAKING A VALUABLE FORM OF COMMUNICATION

"My thesis film is in full swing pre-production, and I'm really excited about the skills I've developed here. I'm seeing the value I've gotten at SFSDF everyday. This year has helped me engage on many separate levels during my day to day work. Not only in the film world, but also in my other pursuits developing startup companies and meeting people around the country. Film is such a valuable communication method, and learning the practical skills has resulted in a theoretical understanding of how this communication works. I've found that knowledge to be a rare commodity in the world.

I'm currently working on my thesis film. It's got a fabulous San Francisco location for primary filming and we are slowly moving towards production at the end of July. The team represents my favorite young filmmakers, whom I consider the cream of the crop, and I'm excited to begin production. Like any Indie filmmaker, I have gotten used to wearing many different hats during a project. SFSDF has really prepared me to know which hats I need to have, and when to put each one on. This film, which will be finished in August/September will be the first of my films that I will be actively distributing. I've got some exciting ideas about how to use marketing tools that have been used successfully for web applications and technology companies to get the film out there. In addition to these new strategies I will be actively seeking viewers at various festivals. The help of my instructors has been invaluable in developing me as a filmmaker. Given the schools unique staff and curriculum, they will be just as invaluable in helping me get the film out there."

Tyler Willis accepts work through his production company, B-Week Films, and is also actively working with and advising a small list of Bay Area internet startups. He can be contacted via email at tyler@tylerhwillis.com.

ALEX LAVIDGE, SFSDF WORKSHOP GRAD, "LOVED EVERY MINUTE"

"Taking evening classes for five weeks at the San Francisco School of Digital Filmmaking (SFSDF) on the art of film and digital HD video production, I'd have to say I've loved every minute of it.  The faculty has a ton of experience and they do an amazing job of cramming in the basics on making a short film from the elements of screenwriting, lighting, music composition, sound, to offering intensive training sessions for Final Cut Pro."


SFSDF TAKES AMATEUR FILMMAKER, JC TODD, TO NEW HEIGHTS

I've been interested in filmmaking ever since taking a video technology class in the 8th grade. Since then, it's been my lifelong goal to keep evolving in my talent and knowledge of this amazing art form. About a year ago, I wanted to take filmmaking from being my passion and hobby to being my full-time business. I put together a business plan and went out to find funding. Even with all the life experience and "street knowledge" I'd had, nobody would fund me because I wasn't formally trained. That's when I found SFSDF, and my life changed forever.

Initially, all I was looking for was a one-year film program so I could be in and out with my piece of paper. I thought I knew most of what they'd be teaching, so I thought it'd be a breeze. Little did I know, I had much to learn! Through this program, I've gained invaluable knowledge, skills and techniques. I've grown immensely in my talents and knowledge, as my reel can attest to. The teachers are very knowledgeable, and they know how to explain concepts in a way that brings everyone, beginners to novices, to a new level of understanding. And if you don't quite grasp what they've taught, they'll sit down with you and stay until you're fully satisfied.

I'm glad that things worked out the way they did. Had I gotten funding a year ago, I would be flat on my face at this point and giving up on my dream and passion. After attending SFSDF, I'm now ready to begin my business; this time, knowing full well what's required of me. I also wanted to say thanks to Stephen and Jeremiah for starting such a wonderful place, and to all the instructors who've helped me along the way. Thank you!

ASPIRING FILMMAKER, JEREMIAH CAPURRO, ENJOYS SMALL CLASSES & BIG CITY

My experience at SFSDF has been quite unforgettable. Being born and raised in Healdsburg California, a town of about 10,000 people where you always know what’s going on, then moving to San Francisco with nearly 800,000 people to attend film school was quite intimidating. Over time I did get used to living here in the big city, I’ve had a lot of great times and made some wonderful new friends with the staff and students at SFSDF.
 
I had been creating music from the age of 15 and about two years ago I decided to change it up a bit and express myself through film. Before I was enrolled in SFSDF, I had been researching film schools from San Francisco to New York for about a year. One of the reasons I chose SFSDF was because of the size of the classes. Even with all of the equipment and a huge production studio you still get one on one treatment with the instructors, it gives it that small town feeling, which I was attracted to. I entered this program knowing absolutely nothing about the filmmaking process, and from the excellent writing programs, to the lectures on pre production, and, of course, the hands on filmmaking experience, I feel I am leaving SFSDF very confident about my filmmaking skills.
 
My goal for the future is to work my style into the film business. I would like to see more films that trust the audience with more complex plots, motifs, and themes. Stylistically, I would like to make puzzle-like, open-ended films that encourage viewers to work towards their own underlying meanings. A great film to me is one that encourages self-reflection by forcing me to think. Two of my biggest inspirations are David Lynch and Christopher Nolan.
 
My latest film, “Reflection,” is currently in post-production having a custom score composed by Producer Ian Taggart of Babygrande records. The film is about a character living in a mental rehab facility involuntarily creates fantasies around news reports he sees and hears. We are pulled deep inside of his chaotic mind, allowing us to witness firsthand his twisted imagination and its reactions to the physical universe.
 
Jeremiah C. Capurro
Digital Filmmaking Program, Fall 2006

STUDENT, GREG LYNN, TALKS ABOUT HAVING THE FREEDOM TO MAKE THE FILMS HE WANTS.

My name is Greg Martin Lynn. I was born and raised in Santa Cruz County California. I have always been interested in the arts, especially filmmaking. In junior high I began making skateboard movies in the back yard, using my parent's video camera. The hobby of filmmaking is now a passion.

In four years at Lynn University in Boca Raton, Florida, I majored in communications with an emphasis in film studies. I graduated in May of 2006 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in this major. While working for my degree I have written and produced four short films: two documentaries, "Alcohol" and "Dyslexia", a music video titled "Lost" and a brief love story from my screenplay titled "Words of Tranquility".

At SFSDF I have worked on my own and also with a group in collaboration on other student's work. We edit with the programs Avid and Final cut Pro. It has been a terrific experience. When I heard about SFSDF I was thrilled. I attended an open house in January and knew right away that the school was where I needed to go next to further my career in film. The program is what I had been looking forward to for years.

It is exciting to think about using the latest technology to continue to build my portfolio, to get credits on movies and to establish contacts within the industry. I just finished my first film at SFSDF, called "The Mirror." It was an exciting experience and I'm now working on my new documentary called "Beyond forever." It's great having the freedom to make the films that I want to make and the freedom to show the ideas I want to get across. Well, love to see you on the set, talk with you soon. Cut.

Greg Lynn,
Digital Filmmaking Program, Fall 2006
B.A. Communications

AFTER COMPARING THE TOP 20 U.S. FILM SCHOOLS, JOYCE CHOSE SFSDF

"After careful consideration, comparing and contrasting the top 20 film schools in the United States, I chose San Francisco School of Digital Filmmaking. It has been one of the best decisions I have made in my life. Why? First and foremost, the co-founders and instructors are passionate about their craft. They have worked in the field and speak directly from experience, rather than from theory alone. The co-founders teach the way they wish they had been taught and their enthusiasm is contagious!

With a rich background in Art and Psychology, I was not seeking a degree program, but one that provided hands-on in-the-trenches experience. There is no doubt that SFSDF highlights that approach. Almost literally, we experienced hands-on from Day 1!

As I share my experiences in conversations with colleagues and friends from the East Coast, I continued to be startled by the amount of information I have absorbed and how much I have yet to learn. Although, in the past, I have been involved in films in various capacities, I have never had the opportunity to combine my previous knowledge and skills simultaneously. It is very exciting to work in cooperation with a crew of fellow classmates who are assisting to bring to life each story-one that you are passionate about, that you created, directed and edited. Like giving birth and bringing new life into this world, it takes a community like SFSDF to create a film and do it well. Thank you!"

Joyce Anastasia
Digital Filmmaking Program, Fall 2006

ESTELLE THANKS SFSDF FOR VALUABLE GUIDANCE ON HOW TO MAKE IT IN HER CHOSEN CAREER

"Stephen and Jeremiah, you're good people. I sensed it right from the start, and every encounter I've had with you over the past year has confirmed it. And because of that, you attract good people to work with you. I've never had any doubt about your genuine desire to share your knowledge and experience with your students, not only through your own interactions with them, but also by finding and hiring instructors who do the same. Even when they were working twelve-hour days, their enthusiasm and support never flagged. And you don't just hire people who are exactly like yourselves. There are such a variety of personalities and styles here, just as there is in the "real world" for which you're preparing us. I like that.

When you auditioned potential instructors, you didn't just interview them and look at their reels. You had them spend a couple of days working one-on-one with the students, and you asked for our feedback before making your decision. You've also brought in guest lecturers to supplement the curriculum with their specialized expertise so we could learn from the best. They, too, provided hands-on experience and individual coaching."

You taught us how to direct actors by putting us in their shoes. There was the traditional acting class with Celik, and then there was the day we all carpooled down to the Presque Isle location to shoot a few practice scenes with Rob Nilsson, who directed us the way he directs his actors. What an unexpected experience, and what a great way to prepare us for crewing on the feature film. I felt as if I understood what this director is about, so when I watched him work during filming I had a certain insight into his process that I would never have had otherwise.

When I told Jeremiah that I wanted to focus on editing as my career path, he created a new crew position for me on Presque Isle as Assistant Editor/P2 Capture Tech so I could learn the latest technology through hands-on experience on a feature film set.

Regarding the Presque Isle production in general, I was impressed not only with the way Jeremiah and James handled this very ambitious project, but also with their generosity in letting students take complete ownership of certain crew positions, and giving them the credit they earned. Also, it wasn't just a location shoot; the lack of contact with the outside world made it a total immersion experience --intense, challenging, exhausting, and I loved it.

At SFSDF, you've created and equipped a place that nurtures people's dreams. You're never content with "good enough" -- you're always looking to improve the physical space, the equipment, the quality of instruction, and the opportunities for students to gain the experience and skills that will allow them to walk onto any film set and fit right in. Many of us have already worked on paid gigs, even before graduating. And finally, you've given us valuable guidance about how to take what we've learned here and make the real-world transition into our chosen careers. Thank you!"

Estelle Gow
Digital Filmmaking Program, Graduate '06

PUSHED TO DEVELOP HER CRAFT, STEPHANIE YANG IS LEARNING MORE THAN SHE EVER EXPECTED.

ABOUT BEING AT SFDSF:

"Having the opportunity to attend a school that challenges me as an artist and a professional has pushed me to develop my craft in very intentional ways. I am learning more than I ever expected when I signed up for the SFSDF program. Prior to coming to the school, I was making short narrative films within a local community of filmmakers (and continue to be a part of that community), where each of us learns from each other. Learning collaboratives definitely provided me with a space to explore my passion around storytelling. However what I felt was lacking was a rigorous approach to the technical aspects of filmmaking, such as lighting, camera work, cinematography -- on a competitive level. SFSDF provides me with that training -- and also with an opportunity to explore my voice, my vision and my passion. I am so appreciative of the school and what it is helping me to achieve. The approach is so personal that I feel like each project I am working on is individually nurtured through the process -- with each instructor taking the time to understand my vision and my hope for what it will be. This is how school should be -- and every day I feel so lucky to be able to create in a space that is so supportive and so wonderfully challenging as well."

ABOUT STEPHANIE YANG:

Stephanie Yang is an artist living and working in the San Francisco Bay Area. Her work explores the disparities and assumptions that frame personal and social relationships in urban settings. She is a writer, collage artist and filmmaker. She is the founder of Shifting Narratives, an independent film company and online community for filmmakers who are using the short narrative form to support and strengthen social justice and human rights movements. Stephanie received her BA from UCLA and her MA in French Literature from Tulane University where she specialized in film and feminist theory. Her graduate work focused on women's voice, and the filmic and literary representations of women within the social sphere, specifically pertaining to courtesans, performers, and other marginalized women.

Stephanie Yang
Digital Filmmaking Program, Spring '06

ROBERT LEE GRANT COMPLETES DOCUMENTARTY ON THE EDIBLE SCHOOLYARD PLANS TO PROMOTE THE PROGRAM IN THE CITY OF NEW ORLEANS!

I had a great deal of trepidation about my having a goal of producing a promotional/documentary film about Alice Waters' acclaimed "The Edible Schoolyard" in Berkeley, with the hope of using it to create a similar organic garden for kids program in my newly adopted city of New Orleans. My being a middle aged, non-computer intelligent person; I knew that it would be in for a struggle. (I have a PC and have only sparingly used Microsoft XP.)

The five-week workshop offered by SFSDF promised that each student would produce a short documentary film. And even though all of the "tech stuff" was done with Apple hardware/software, which I had no prior knowledge of, I did manage to complete the course of study and make my very own film. The other much younger students taking the workshop did too, but their knowledge of the Mac and their "tech brains" made it much easier for them to grasp all of the new information, techniques and hardware. In my case, it took considerable effort for me to get it all together. And it required much patience from the workshop's four hands-on instructors who covered variousaspects of the curriculum. They were available to me for much special "elementary instruction" in using the Apple products, for which I am forever grateful.

I heartily thank the entire SFSDF team. I am now a filmmaker!

Robert Lee Grant
Digital Filmmaking Workshop, Summer '06

PASSIONATE & PRO-ACTIVE STUDENT FINDS HERSELF IMMERSED IN ALL TYPES OF FILMMAKING OPPORTUNITES

"As an advanced student at SFSDF, I have been afforded many opportunities both professionally and personally. I have worked on corporate projects, independent films, and even contracted my own gig as a producer for a fantastic non-profit organization. Work constantly comes through our school, and if you are passionate and pro-active you will find yourself immersed in all kinds of filmmaking. Over half of the jobs that I've participated in have been paid positions.

Before I began the Digital Filmmaking Program, I had pursued a few different careers. I have a B.A. in Liberal Studies, am a certified massage practitioner, have acting and singing training, and retail, restaurant, and administrative experience. Despite all of this learning, I always felt a longing for something more.

It has taken the better part of my young adult life to learn to follow my instincts. Although I was frightened because I had no collateral for my future if filmmaking didn't work out for me, I took a chance on a dream and am so excited to be where I am today. Enrolling at SFSDF filled the void for me, and I know I'm on the right path now."

Tammy Miller
Digital Filmmaking Program
Advanced, Spring 2006

THE OPPORTUNITIES SFSDF PROVIDES ARE AMAZING!

"After completing the "Essential Filmmaking Program" and two months into the "Advanced Filmmaking Program", I can say I am glad I found the San Francisco School of Digital Filmmaking. Since day one we had a camera in our hands and before I knew it, I had a completed film I can call my own. With the help from Stephen, Jeremiah, and the rest of the SFSDF staff, I am seeing my ideas come to life along with my dreams. Whether you want to remain Independent or go Hollywood, SFSDF will help you kick start your dreams and guide you in the right direction. The opportunities SFSDF provides are amazing. Since I have been here, I have worked on several short film productions (not including my own projects), worked on a music video shoot, and helped film a concert production. We will all get hands on experience on a Feature length film produced by the school and work with industry professionals, thanks to SFSDF... And the course is not over yet. There is no other school I can think of, that provides the opportunities like the San Francisco School of Digital Filmmaking; they keep us posted on upcoming gigs. It is up to us, the students to follow up, if we snooze we loose! Just like in the real world, something overlooked in many films schools, but not SFSDF. If you are serious about making films and are currently reading this testimonial... You found your school, quit looking elsewhere!"

The opportunities SFSDF provides are amazing. Since I have been here, I have worked on several short film productions (not including my own projects), worked on a music video shoot, and helped film a concert production. We will all get hands on experience on a Feature length film produced by the school and work with industry professionals, thanks to SFSDF... And the course is not over yet. There is no other school I can think of, that provides the opportunities like the San Francisco School of Digital Filmmaking; they keep us posted on upcoming gigs. It is up to us, the students to follow up, if we snooze we lose! Just like in the real world, something overlooked in many films schools, but not SFSDF. If you are serious about making films and are currently reading this testimonial... You found your school, quit looking elsewhere!"

Jay P. Gonzalez
Digital Filmmaking Program
Advanced, 2006

FILM SCHOOLS MAY BOAST QUALITY OVER QUANTITY, THE CURRICULUM HERE OFFERS AND DELIVERS BOTH

"I've just completed post-production on my third film and first TV commercial at SFSDF. I've also crewed on six other students' films, in various capacities, including camera, lighting, sound and continuity. Very soon, as part of the Advanced program, I'll be working with director Rob Nilsson, in conjunction with PixelCorps, on the feature film, "Presque Isle", also for which I'm currently a location scout, in and around the Bay Area.

Where other film schools may boast quality over quantity, the curriculum here offers and delivers BOTH. I was a screenwriter, with limited success, for several years prior to my acceptance at SFSDF. Thanks to the professional instruction, patience and support of the faculty, in a filmmaking environment, with the latest state-of-the- art equipment and software, I have a hands-on knowledge of the production end of filmmaking, something I now believe to be crucial in the successful scriptwriting process."

Christeph Buckley
Digital Filmmaking Program, Fall 2005

SFSDF DELIVERS ON ALL OF THEIR PROMISES

I used to hate school. During class I was either doodling in my notebook, or scheming ways to fake a bellyache so I could leave for the rest of the day. I was truant so much that some of the staff at my high school graduation stared at me blankly or with confusion when I grabbed my diploma.

Yet, despite the ugliness of my high school years, I went on to college. I hoped that having a more specialized education would help me be more focused. Instead, I found much of the same tedium and restlessness that I felt in high school.

After about a year or so, I dropped out of college, and got a string of mundane office jobs that paid my rent for the next ten years. People would often ask me if I planned on returning to school. "Nooo. Not for me. Never again." I never even considered it!

Last April I lost my job and was forced to really think about what it was that I wanted to do. I came to the open house at SFSDF expecting more of the same old, same old, and was completely floored by the space, by Stephen's warm frankness, and the promise of actual hands-on individualized attention.

It's been a little over four months now. So far the school has delivered on ALL of its promises. The staff is engaged and committed to helping us grow. And well? Let's just say I haven't had to fake a bellyache even ONCE since I started.

Arlene Skjerly,
Digital Filmmaking Program
Fall 2005

ADVANCED DIGITAL FILMMAKING STUDENT ACCOMPLISHES HIS GOALS WITH THE HELP OF SFSDF

"I can honestly say that I have definitely learned a lot from the SFSDF Staff and my classmates regarding filmmaking and acting. Not only have I been able to see the improvements from my previous works before registering into the program, but my family and friends around me have noticed the difference too. I have accomplished so much of the things I wanted to do in this one-year program that I couldn't have done on my own and especially in this short amount of time with very little expense. I have been able to complete a high quality commercial for my business, a documentary for my family, and a couple of short films to kick-start my own filmmaking company so be on the lookout for "PROGRESSIVE IMAGE FILMS" in the very near future.

When I saw this School and communicated with the SFSDF staff regarding their program and what they had to offer I knew that I was in the right place at the right time. Thanks SFSDF, I won't forget where I came from. Peace and continued blessing to you all."

Jeffery Leon (Davis)
Advanced Digital Filmmaking Program
Fall 2005

THE BEST MONEY I EVER SPENT

"I would like to thank you again for hosting the excellent Filmmaking Winter Work Shop. I feel that it is the best money I ever spent. I learned more in 5 weeks than I ever have over that same time course in any other part of my life.

Jeremiah, Rod, Milena, Stephen and Spencer provided a wonderful environment that helped promote creative and personal growth. I would recommend your school to anyone pursuing an interest in digital filmmaking without reservation."

Dag Shapshak
Digital Filmmaking Workshop
Winter 2006

MICHELLE EGGERS IS BLISSFULLY GRATEFUL FOR THE OPPORTUNITIES PROVIDED BY SFSDF.

"A little over a month into the 10 month intensive program and I can honestly say that I am blissfully grateful to be here, I have learned so much in such a short period of time. Jeremiah and Stephen have successfully manifested their vision into the curriculum of SFSDF. The small class sizes, the "layering" of information offered, the hands on experience, and supportive mentoring from instructors and staff all contribute to the unique experience received. I have not found this same level of commitment to students along with a passion for making movies in any other certificated or graduate programs I've researched. This is truly a unique program and an exciting environment to be in. Students are surrounded by creative, passionate filmmakers and actors and "real world" high tech equipment that one would find on any professional set. Our creative process is fostered from pre to post production and beyond. The opportunities for personal and professional growth are constant."

Michele Eggers
Essentials of Digital Filmmaking Program
Fall 2005

RALPH KING, FALL STUDENT EXPRESSES HIS SENTIMENT TO SFSDF INSTRUCTORS.

"Overall, the course was superbly designed--imaginative, fast-paced, interesting--packing a huge amount of the most essential and most practical info into a short period of time. I'm still astounded that all eight of us novices managed to make movies that came out so well in four short weeks. The lectures were engaging, and the lab work was a blast (the exercise of shooting still pix was particularly valuable). My greatest learning came from having to make key decisions and figure things out by myself. But I also appreciated having you close by whenever I was hopelessly lost or stuck. Striking this balance, perhaps more than anything, reflects your great skill as teachers."

Ralph King
Essentials of Digital Filmmaking Program
Fall 2005

MARCO ARAUJO, PRODUCES A SHORT FILM SELECTED FOR THE MISSION CULTURAL CENTER'S VIDEOFEST!

"The faculty at SFSDF drops you into the middle of the process, promising (and delivering) any level of guidance you need to get your vision down on tape. At this school, you are an individual and a member of the team you create. In my case, I'd always loved the notion of moving people with images; casually gathering what I thought was a keen sense of timing and narrative -- though I never tested out that vision. The summer course at SFSDF turned out to be the perfect avenue to finally see if my skill matched my ambition. Now, my first short film is an official selection at a local film festival. SFSDF gets it -- it's the perfect school for today's bootstrap film world."

Marco Araujo
Digital Filmmaking Workshop
Summer 2005

RACHEL NICHOLS WISHES ON A STAR - THEN BEGINS TO SEE HER DREAMS COME TRUE

"The San Francisco School of Digital Filmmaking is a fine institution. I came across it after wishing on a star and then the next day my boyfriend brought home an advertisement. For the first time in my life I am working towards unlocking the potential that so many frustrated teachers have told me I possessed. The key to this long awaited development is in the teaching styles of this school. I needed to be thrown into filmmaking. I'm not good with sitting idly by, while dull instructors drone on about theory and possible methods. SFSDF emphasizes hands on techniques, which help me achieve a greater understanding of the equipment and its applications. Amazingly our entire class of 14 students has come from little to no film experience and within two months we have each achieved movie magic. Until now, I had never attended a school that spoke of our future careers. I truly believe that every student in our class will have the necessary tools and connections when we graduate to pursue our dreams. I am constantly inspired by the careers and achievements of our teachers. I feel very fortunate to have this opportunity and in the very near future I will finally have a career that doesn't feel like a job."

Rachel Nichols
Essentials of Digital Filmmaking
Fall 2005