Movie making for kids
Filmmaking for kids is a relatively new trend popular not only with parents but also with educational institutions, such as elementary and secondary schools, and after-class activities.
One of the main benefits of video making or editing is that it’s multifacet, hence everybody can find something appealing that they are good at. For example, kids apt to video arts can draw pictures for cartoons (manually or with the help of special software), and those with more technical mindsets will love actual editing and rendering. Children with a gift for writing can create scripts and dialogues.
Also, it can be a great bonding activity for kids and their parents, some quality time together while developing new skills for all the parties. Last but not least, video editing classes for kids introduce children to the world of IT — the most evolving and promising field for future careers.
How to make a movie as a kid
The process itself doesn’t differ a lot from creating "real" movies — but it’s cheaper and brings much more fun. All the main steps are the same:
- Decide on a plot;
- Create a storyboard (if the video is going to be long enough);
- Find the equipment (we’ll talk about it later, but in a nutshell, sometimes even a smartphone cam is enough);
- Shoot the video;
- Edit it;
- Share your project, gain likes, and get famous!
But what can a kid shoot? Here are some movie ideas for kids to make, from the easiest to the most complicated ones.
- A music video, for example, for TikTok or another platform.
- A documentary (about your city or some historical facts, etc.).
- An animation movie (the easiest one is digital, but it will require loads of post-production editing).
- A feature film (your classmates may star in your movie).
As for the equipment, if you’re not loaded with money and your parents are not involved in filmmaking so they can lend you some equipment, the options are quite limited: use what you have. In other words, your smartphone, an external mic (it’s a must-have), and some external light sources (don’t worry, they are cheap). You don’t even need expensive video editing software. Until you are rich and famous (you may well become after your first movie release), you can avail of free online video editors. Kid-friendly video editing apps should be multifunctional and yet easy to use.
But, first things first. Remember about the legal issues. Make sure the assets you use are either created by you or royalty-free. Your content must not depart from the letter of the law. Follow all the rules of the platforms you use for publishing your projects.
Tips and hints
Follow several rules to make your video even more impressive.
- Shoot a horizontal video. Of course, unless a portrait orientation is a part of a creative idea.
- Don’t use a digital zoom. It deteriorates the video quality significantly. If you need to zoom in — just come closer.
- Invest in some basic accessories, at least a tripod, an external mic, and light sources. It will take your project to a new level.
- Learn the ropes. Before starting working on your video, learn some basic videography terms (such as exposure, depth of field, aperture, etc.), and get to know the most popular editing techniques (various cuts, transitions, etc.).
FAQs
Is video editing hard?
It may be, but it’s not necessarily the case. Everything depends on the equipment, the complexity of the project, and the team you are working with (teachers, friends, parents).
What kind of videos can kids make?
Any kind they want. It may be a scientific school project, a documentary for a history lesson, or something highly creative — up to the kid and their team.
Where can kids' movies be found?
Mostly on YouTube, including its special kids-friendly app YouTube Kids, TikTok, and other social media.
Final thoughts
Videography and video editing is a great developing activity both for kids and grownups. Being highly fascinating, video producing implicitly teaches children the basics of computer science and technology, and makes them team players and negotiators when needed.
The final project shouldn’t be "Titanic" and get eleven Oscars right away. But even Cameron started with the nuts and bolts.