Documentary shooting techniques - Practical hands on workshop
2024-08-06 19:45 - 22:00 UTC | Sutton FilmMakers Club – Parochial Rooms, 42 The Broadway, Cheam, Surrey, SM3 8BL, United Kingdom
Session led by Tom McDaniel

Documentary shooting techniques – Practical hands on workshop

Introduction

You will direct and shoot inserts and sequences that can be used as broadcast material.

The scenarios are designed to get you thinking about the material required for a real programme, from basic coverage to more creative shots.

Your footage will be fed into the edit so you can learn about good and bad shooting habits and what the editor is looking for in order to make sequences flow.

Breakdown of Workshop:

· Examining examples of programmes

· Composition of shot sizes

· Gaining enough coverage techniques

· Shooting for editing

· One and two camera working methods

· Microphone techniques

What Skills Will I Learn?You will have the confidence to plan and shoot sequences and inserts that can be successfully edited together to form a broadcast quality programme. Basic sound recording will be covered which you will put into practice throughout the course using various types of microphones, but this is not a full sound workshop.

ADR on a Shoestring
2024-08-20 19:45 - 22:00 | Sutton FilmMakers Club – Parochial Rooms, 42 The Broadway, Cheam, Surrey, SM3 8BL, United Kingdom
Perfecting Your Film’s Dialogue

Session led by Paul Howard & Giovanni Tria

Yes you to can do ADR on a shoestring

Explore into the world of Automated Dialogue Replacement (ADR) with our upcoming club night, tailored for indie filmmakers and enthusiasts eager to polish their projects by using ADR on a shoestring, in other words without stretching your budget.

If you’ve ever faced the challenge of unusable on-set audio, this event is your key to unlocking the secrets of high-quality ADR on a shoestring. Join us for an evening of practical insights and creative solutions, designed to enhance your film’s auditory appeal.

What We’ll Cover

ADR Basics: Learn what ADR is and why it’s a critical tool in filmmaking, especially when original audio fails to meet the mark.

DIY Techniques: Discover innovative, cost-effective methods to recreate and replace dialogue, ensuring your film’s audio is clear, engaging, and true to your vision.

Home Studio Setup: Find out how to set up your own ADR studio using equipment you likely already have or can acquire without breaking the bank.

Syncing & Mixing: Master the art of syncing your newly recorded audio with on-screen actions and blending it seamlessly with the rest of your soundtrack.

Practical Demonstration: Experience a live ADR session where we’ll tackle real-world scenarios and show you exactly how to overcome common challenges faced during post-production.

Why Attend?

This event is a must for any filmmaker who wants to ensure their project’s success, regardless of budget constraints. ADR is often seen as a high-cost post-production process, but we’re here to demonstrate that with a bit of ingenuity and know-how, anyone can achieve outstanding dialogue quality. Whether you’re a student, a hobbyist, or a seasoned indie director, our club night will equip you with the skills and confidence to enhance your film’s auditory experience.

Interactive and Engaging

Not only will you gain valuable knowledge, but you’ll also have the opportunity to engage with fellow filmmakers, share experiences, and even collaborate on future projects. This is a fantastic chance to network and become part of a community that supports and inspires each other.

Join Us for an Evening of Creative Audio Mastery

Elevate your film with impeccable dialogue that captures the essence of your characters and story. Say goodbye to poor-quality audio and hello to immersive, crystal-clear dialogue that will captivate your audience from the first word to the last.

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to transform your filmmaking process and achieve professional-quality ADR on a shoestring basis. Secure your spot now and take the first step towards audio excellence in your indie film projects!

How to do it for yourself for free

If you’d like to setup your computer (PC or Mac) to be able to do ADR may I suggest you download Audacity from https://www.audacityteam.org/download/Once you’ve installed it simple take a look and follow this simple guide on how to do it. https://www.public.asu.edu/~trpete13/materials/Step-by-step-guide-to-dubbing-in-Audacity.pdf

Writer's Room Workshop
2024-09-03 19:45 - 22:00 | Sutton FilmMakers Club – Parochial Rooms, 42 The Broadway, Cheam, Surrey, SM3 8BL, United Kingdom
Time for you to join a Writer’s Room for the evening

Session led by Adrian Dean

In this meeting, you will all become screenwriters in our fictional writer’s room.

We will conceive, develop and even write a script together using the power of our collective creative minds.

I will act as show runner/film studio exec and lead the writers room. Everyone will be able to have some input and therefore be credited as a writer on the script.

So come with your ideas and creativity and let’s write a script in real time. We will start with brainstorming the plot. We will develop a logline, settings and characters.

After that we will start the writing process typing directly into final draft so that everyone can see the screenwriting process in action.

Here we will create a “Vomit draft” of the script (rushed version) that we can rewrite after. By the end of the session we should have a script to be proud of.

What is a Writer’s Room?

A writer’s room is a collaborative workspace where a team of writers come together to develop and refine content for television shows, films, or other scripted media. Typically, the writer’s room is central to the creation of serialized content such as TV series, where the team works collectively on plotting, character development, dialogue, and overall story arcs.

In a writer’s room, the process is highly interactive, with writers brainstorming ideas, discussing plot points, and evaluating character development. The environment is designed to foster creativity and collaboration, allowing writers to build on each other’s ideas and construct a cohesive narrative. This space is often led by a head writer or showrunner who guides the team, ensuring that the vision for the project is consistent and that the final product aligns with the intended direction.

Writer’s rooms are not just about writing scripts; they also play a crucial role in problem-solving and troubleshooting narrative issues, making them integral to the production process. By working together, the team can address story inconsistencies, refine dialogue, and develop compelling characters, ultimately producing high-quality content that resonates with audiences.

What is a Logline?

A logline is a concise, compelling summary of a film’s plot, designed to capture the essence of the story in a single sentence or two. It serves as a crucial tool for pitching the film to producers, agents, and audiences, providing a snapshot of the central conflict, main characters, and key stakes.

Typically, a logline includes the following elements:

Protagonist: The main character of the film.

Goal: What the protagonist is trying to achieve.

Antagonist or Conflict: The primary obstacle or challenge that stands in the way of the protagonist’s goal.

Unique Element: Something that makes the story stand out or adds intrigue.

A well-crafted logline should be clear, engaging, and succinct, often conveying the genre and tone of the film while piquing interest. For example: “A down-and-out private detective, haunted by his past, must solve a high-profile case involving a missing child while battling his own inner demons.” This logline highlights the protagonist, the central goal, the conflict, and hints at the film’s dramatic elements.

What is a Vomit Draft?

A “vomit draft” is a term used in screenwriting and other forms of writing to describe a very rough, initial version of a script or manuscript. The term reflects the idea of getting all your ideas out onto the page without concern for quality, coherence, or polish. The primary goal of a vomit draft is to get your thoughts, storylines, and characters down quickly, providing a foundation for further refinement.

Key characteristics of a vomit draft include:

Raw and Unedited: It is intentionally rough and unpolished, focusing on getting ideas out rather than perfecting them.

Stream of Consciousness: Writers often write rapidly and without much filtering, capturing their thoughts and ideas as they come.

Foundation for Revisions: The vomit draft is not meant for public consumption but serves as a starting point for further revisions, editing, and refining.

In essence, a vomit draft allows writers to bypass perfectionism and get their creative ideas down, knowing that they will have ample opportunity to revise and improve the draft in subsequent stages.

Writer's Room Workshop - Part 2
2024-09-17 19:45 - 22:00 | Sutton FilmMakers Club – Parochial Rooms, 42 The Broadway, Cheam, Surrey, SM3 8BL, United Kingdom
Time for you to join a Writer’s Room again!

Session led by Adrian Dean

Our last club session was an absolute blast! The energy and enthusiasm in the room were infectious as we all took on the role of screenwriters in our fictional writer’s room. The brainstorming session was particularly dynamic, with each member pitching in with fantastic ideas that really helped shape our script. It was clear that everyone’s creative input was invaluable, and the collaborative spirit made the writing process incredibly enjoyable.

Watching the script come to life with so many different perspectives and imaginative suggestions was truly inspiring. From brainstorming plot twists to developing rich characters, the session was a reminder of the power of teamwork in the creative process. It’s exciting to see how our combined efforts are forming a script that we can all be proud of. We can’t wait to continue this journey and see where our collective creativity will take us next!

If you want to know what we got up to in the session see https://suttonfilm.co.uk/event/writers-room-workshop/

Our creative journey isn’t over yet! After our last successful meeting where we started crafting an exciting new script together, we’re continuing the adventure at this session. We’ll pick up where we left off, diving back into our collaborative scriptwriting process to complete our “vomit draft” and further develop our story. Remember, every one that gives us some input gets to be in the credits.

In this interactive session, we’ll review the script so far, brainstorm additional ideas, and continue writing in real-time. Your input is crucial as we aim to create a script that truly reflects our collective vision. Once finished, this script will be progressed through the club, with the ultimate goal of bringing it to life with the help of our talented members.

See a little snippet of the night.

Don’t miss out on the chance to contribute to a project that will be made by and for the club. See you there!

Bring in your favourite or worst scene?
2024-10-01 19:45 - 22:00 | Sutton FilmMakers Club – Parochial Rooms, 42 The Broadway, Cheam, Surrey, SM3 8BL, United Kingdom
Session led by John Dodds

Join us for an unforgettable evening of cinematic exploration and discussion. In this special club night, we invite you to dive deep into the world of blockbuster films in a way you’ve never done before.

What’s It About?

Have you ever watched a scene that left you awe-struck, or perhaps one that made you question how it even made it to the big screen? Whether it’s a scene that you admire for its technical excellence, storytelling brilliance, or emotional impact, or one that you believe fell short of its potential, this is your chance to share your thoughts and insights with fellow film enthusiasts.

Why Participate?

Share Your Passion: Bring a scene that speaks to you on a personal level, whether it fills you with joy, excitement, frustration, or disappointment. This is a fantastic opportunity to express your cinematic tastes and preferences.

Deep Dive Discussions: Engage in lively discussions about what makes a scene stand out or falter. Delve into aspects like directing, cinematography, acting, and editing.

Creative Critique: Offer your unique perspective on how you would have approached the scene differently. This is a great way to spark creativity and inspire others with your vision.

Who Should Attend?

This night is perfect for anyone who loves films, from the seasoned critic to the casual moviegoer. Whether you’re an aspiring filmmaker, a passionate cinephile, or someone who enjoys discussing the finer points of cinematic art, your insights and opinions are valuable to us.

Get Involved

Prepare to immerse yourself in an evening of film critique, appreciation, and creative exchange. Bring along your chosen scene (in a suitable format for sharing) and be ready to delve into what makes it your favourite or least favourite cinematic moment.

Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals, share your love or critique of cinema, and perhaps even discover a new perspective on films you thought you knew inside out.

So mark your calendars and join us for a night of unforgettable film discussions. Let’s celebrate the scenes that make us laugh, cry, think, and dream, and explore how we can make the world of cinema even more extraordinary.

Club AGM
2024-10-15 20:00 - 22:00 | Sutton FilmMakers Club – Parochial Rooms, 42 The Broadway, Cheam, Surrey, SM3 8BL, United Kingdom
We need you… special meeting – club members only

Attention all members of the Sutton Filmmakers!

The Annual General Meeting (AGM) is coming up soon and we encourage each and every one of you to attend. Your participation and involvement in the club are crucial to its success and growth.

The club is only as good as the efforts put into it by its members. This is your opportunity to have a say in the future direction of the club, to provide feedback and to share your ideas. By attending the AGM, you can help shape the future of the club and ensure it continues to provide opportunities for members to grow and develop their filmmaking skills.

We also encourage members to consider putting themselves forward to help run the club. The club is run by volunteers and your involvement in this capacity can make a huge difference. Whether it’s by serving on the committee, taking on a specific role or simply offering to help out when needed, every bit of help is appreciated.

The AGM is a chance for members to come together, connect with one another and celebrate the successes of the club over the past year. It’s also an opportunity to look ahead and plan for the future.

Is more equipment is needed?

We will also be discussing any plans to invest in new equipment for the club. As the club continues to grow and evolve, it is important that we have the necessary resources to support our members and provide them with the best possible experience. By buying new equipment, we can ensure that the club remains at the forefront of filmmaking technology and provides our members with the tools they need to succeed.

The AGM is the perfect opportunity for members to share their thoughts and opinions on what equipment they would like to see the club invest in. This is your chance to have a direct impact on the future of the club and help shape its future direction. So come along to the AGM, be heard and help us build a better club for everyone!

Don’t miss this important event! Your participation and involvement are vital to the success of the club. Please put the date in your diary and make sure you attend. WE NEED YOU. We look forward to seeing you at the AGM!

AGM Wednesday 15th October

AGENDA

Welcome and Apologies

Matters Arising – last years minutes

Chairman’s Report

Treasurer’s Report – Approval of accounts

Secretary’s Report on evenings held during 2023/2024

2023/24 Projects overview

Proposals

Resignation and re-election of Chairman

Resignation and re-election of new officers

Secretary

Membership secretary

Treasurer

Events secretary

Social secretary

Public relations officer

Grants and bids officer

Kit secretary

Events Secretary

Website review and update (Paul Howard)

A.O.B

Chairman’s closing remarks

Resolutions for the AGM at Sutton Filmmakers

That the club should take over the full rent for the Garage as Peter no longer needs it or uses it for his equipment.

Lenses and Focus Pulling
2024-11-05 19:45 - 22:00 | Sutton FilmMakers Club – Parochial Rooms, 42 The Broadway, Cheam, Surrey, SM3 8BL, United Kingdom
Lenses and Focus Pulling

November 5 @ 7:45 pm – 10:00 pmLed by Peter Leverick and Tom McDaniel

Join us for an in-depth, practical session exploring the essential techniques of Lenses and Focus Pulling, led by experienced filmmakers Peter Leverick and Tom McDaniel. This session is a must for anyone involved in filmmaking, from Directors of Photography (DOPs) and Camera Operators to Directors looking to deepen their technical knowledge.

The night will focus on two of the most critical elements in cinematography: lenses and focus pulling. Choosing the right lens can drastically alter the mood, tone, and feel of a scene, making it an invaluable skill for DOPs and Directors who want to tell their story visually. You’ll explore the different types of lenses—from wide-angle to telephoto—and learn how each impacts the image, depth of field, and perspective.

Focus pulling, meanwhile, is a crucial technique used to maintain sharp focus while the camera or subject moves. This skill is vital for Camera Operators and Focus Pullers, but also for Directors and DOPs, who need to understand how focus affects storytelling and the emotional impact of a scene. A well-executed focus pull can guide the audience’s attention, create tension, or emphasise key moments in the story.

Lens Care: Protecting Your Most Valuable Tool

As part of the Lenses and Focus Pulling session, we’ll also be covering an often-overlooked but crucial aspect of cinematography: lens care. Our club lens is one of the most valuable pieces of equipment on set, and proper care is essential to maintaining image quality and extending the lifespan of your gear.

During this segment, we’ll discuss best practices for keeping your lenses clean and in top condition, including how to handle them properly, prevent scratches, and avoid damage from dust and moisture. You’ll learn about the tools needed for lens maintenance, such as lens cloths, air blowers, and specialised cleaning solutions.

We’ll also cover how to store your lenses safely between shoots to prevent wear and tear, and why regular cleaning is important for ensuring that your images remain sharp and free of unwanted blemishes.

Whether you’re new to handling lenses or just want to brush up on proper care techniques, this part of the session will give you practical tips to ensure that your lenses continue to deliver pristine, high-quality visuals.

This practical session will provide hands-on experience, where participants will get to experiment with different lenses and practice focus pulling techniques. You’ll learn not just the mechanics, but also the artistry behind making sure your shots are always in focus and visually captivating.

If you’re looking to elevate your technical skills and bring a more professional, cinematic touch to your films, this session is an unmissable opportunity.

Dive Into the World of Music Videos
2024-11-19 19:45 - 22:00 | Sutton FilmMakers Club – Parochial Rooms, 42 The Broadway, Cheam, Surrey, SM3 8BL, United Kingdom
Session led by Adrian Dean

How to Film Music Videos

This week’s club night promises to be a creative and vibrant exploration of the art and impact of music videos and how to film music videos. From their visual storytelling to their bold and imaginative styles, music videos can often elevate a song to a whole new level – or even outshine it!

We will be exploring the world of music videos. We will look at different styles and techniques used and discuss what works and what doesn’t. We will focus on how music videos can be just as impactful (or more) as the song itself.

If you have any music videos that you know that are unconventional, unique, innovative or just damn entertaining please bring them along and let’s discuss.

🎶 What’s Happening?We’ll be diving into the fascinating world of music videos, looking at the techniques, styles, and storytelling methods that make them so compelling. Here’s a glimpse of what to expect:

🎥 Style and Technique BreakdownDiscover how music videos use visuals, choreography, editing, and special effects to complement – or sometimes transform – a song’s meaning and appeal.

💡 What Works, What Doesn’tLet’s discuss why some videos become iconic while others miss the mark. What elements draw us in? Which approaches make us lose interest? Together, we’ll dissect the magic (or missteps) behind these mini cinematic gems.

🌟 Spotlight on CreativityHave a favourite music video that’s unconventional, daring, or downright entertaining? Bring it along! Whether it’s a masterpiece of innovation or a quirky cult classic, we’d love to see it and hear your thoughts.

🎬 Why Attend?This is a perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in a medium that blends music and film in truly unique ways. Whether you’re an aspiring filmmaker, a music lover, or just someone with a passion for creative storytelling, this session will open your eyes to the artistry and impact of music videos.

So grab your favourite music video (or one that’s piqued your curiosity), come with an open mind, and join the discussion. Let’s celebrate the bold, innovative, and entertaining world of music videos together.

We look forward to seeing you there for an inspiring and entertaining evening!

P.S. Have a unique or jaw-dropping music video in mind? Be sure to bring it along for everyone to enjoy!

An Inspiring Evening With Filmmaker Rob Ayling
2024-12-03 19:45 - 22:00 | Sutton FilmMakers Club – Parochial Rooms, 42 The Broadway, Cheam, Surrey, SM3 8BL, United Kingdom
We are thrilled to announce that Rob Ayling, an award-winning filmmaker and storyteller, will be joining us as a special guest speaker for an unmissable evening of creativity, inspiration, and cinematic insight.

About Rob Ayling

From former coffeeshop barista champion to acclaimed filmmaker, Rob Ayling has carved out an impressive career in the world of film and theatre. A passionate storyteller and self-proclaimed comic book nerd, Rob is known for his innovative approach to filmmaking and his love for Batman (evident from his collection of 65 Batman hats!).

Rob’s journey began with a background in Art and Film Philosophy, earning a BA Hons from UWE Bristol and an MA in Film Directing from the prestigious Met Film School in 2014. Since then, he has worked on a diverse range of projects including:

🎬 Award-Winning FilmsRob has directed numerous short fiction films, animations, music videos, and short documentaries, many of which have been selected for prestigious BAFTA and Academy Award qualifying film festivals.

🎥 Living in Crime AlleyIn 2019, Rob brought his award-winning screenplay, Living in Crime Alley (A Batman Story), to life. The film premiered at the British Film Institute (BFI), screened at over 40 film festivals worldwide, and earned multiple accolades.

📺 Dreaming Whilst BlackRob directed an episode of the critically acclaimed web series Dreaming Whilst Black, which has since been commissioned by BBC/A24.

🎞 HandsDuring the UK’s first lockdown, Rob created Hands, a powerful 90-second documentary that screened at an Academy Award qualifying festival and won the Shiny Awards’ Best New Director (Freelance).

Rob draws inspiration from legendary filmmakers such as Billy Wilder, Martin Scorsese, Stanley Kubrick, and Alfred Hitchcock, and brings a wealth of knowledge and creativity to his craft.

What to Expect

Rob will take us behind the scenes of his filmmaking journey, sharing his insights, experiences, and creative process. Highlights of the evening include:

🎬 Film ScreeningsEnjoy a showcase of Rob’s work, including some of his award-winning films, with an opportunity to hear the stories behind the projects.

🎥 The Filmmaking ProcessLearn about the challenges and triumphs of bringing ideas to life on screen, from developing concepts to navigating the festival circuit.

💡 Directing for Film and TheatreGain unique insights into the similarities and differences of directing for the stage versus the screen.

🎭 Stories That MatterDiscover how Rob combines his passion for philosophy, art, and storytelling to create compelling narratives that resonate with audiences.

Why You Should Attend

This is a rare opportunity to meet a multi-talented filmmaker who has successfully navigated the competitive world of film and theatre. Whether you’re an aspiring director, a comic book fan, or someone who simply loves great storytelling, Rob’s insights are sure to inspire and entertain.

📅 Date: Tuesday, 3rd December 2024🕢 Time: 7:45 pm – 10:00 pm

Don’t miss this exciting chance to connect with the dynamic and creative Rob Ayling. We can’t wait to see you there for what promises to be an unforgettable evening!

This event is open to all members and visitors. Save the date and join us!

Club Christmas Social
2024-12-17 19:30 - 22:30 | Sutton FilmMakers Club – Parochial Rooms, 42 The Broadway, Cheam, Surrey, SM3 8BL, United Kingdom
Remake Revelry at the Club

This festive season, join us for an evening sprinkled with nostalgia, creativity, and cheer at our Christmas Social Night.

As the year draws to a close, we’re not just looking back on old club films with fondness; we’re also setting the stage for new beginnings. Gather with fellow club members to delve into our archive, where we’ll embark on a cinematic journey through time, revisiting the stories that have defined us.

The highlight? Selecting one cherished film to breathe new life into with a modern remake.

And what’s a celebration without some festive treats? Enjoy an assortment of drinks and nibbles, making it the perfect social event to warm up your winter evening.

Why Join the Festivities?

A Trip Down Memory Lane: Revisit old club films, reliving the moments that captured our imagination and showcased our creativity.

Shape the Future: Play a pivotal role in choosing a film from our past to remake, updating it for the present day. Your voice matters in deciding which story gets a new lease of life.

Festive Fun: It’s not just about the films; it’s about coming together as a community. Enjoy the convivial atmosphere with drinks, nibbles, and perhaps a few surprises along the way.

Networking & Collaboration: What better occasion to connect with like-minded film enthusiasts and spark discussions that could lead to your next project or collaboration?

Who Should Attend our Christmas Social Night?

This evening is for everyone in the club – from those who have been with us since the beginning to our newest members. Whether you’re a filmmaker, an actor, a scriptwriter, or simply a lover of cinema, this social night promises to offer something for everyone. It’s a chance to reflect on our shared history, inspire new ideas, and celebrate the season together.

Join Us for a Night of Cinematic Celebration

Let’s make this Christmas Social Night a memorable one, filled with laughter, inspiration, and the magic of cinema. It’s an opportunity to strengthen our club’s community, spark creativity for future projects, and enjoy a festive gathering that celebrates our passion for filmmaking.

Prepare for an evening where we toast to the past, present, and future of our club’s cinematic journey. Don’t miss out on this blend of tradition and innovation – a true highlight of our club’s social calendar.

WeMakeFilms International Film Festival
2025-01-07 19:45 - 22:15 | Sutton FilmMakers Club – Parochial Rooms, 42 The Broadway, Cheam, Surrey, SM3 8BL, United Kingdom
Hosted by Sutton Filmmakers

Session led by Paul Howard

🎬 Celebrating Creativity and Ingenuity in Indie Filmmaking

We’re thrilled to announce that the WeMakeFilms International Film Festival will be hosted by Sutton FilmMakers on Tuesday, 7th January 2025, in Cheam, Surrey. This event is dedicated to showcasing exceptional films created with limited budgets, celebrating the artistry, passion, and resourcefulness of indie filmmakers from around the globe.

This Film Festival is a Unique Challenge for Sutton FilmMakers

This year’s festival is even more exciting for our members as we will be attempting a live online broadcast of the event for the very first time! This ambitious project brings a unique set of challenges, and we’re calling on all our members to help make it a success.

Here’s what we’ll be tackling on the night:

Early Setup: We’ll start at 6:30 pm to prepare for the film festival.

Lighting: Setting up house lights that can be dimmed and ensuring our presenter, Richard, is lit properly for the broadcast.

Cameras and Sound: We’ll need to rig cameras and route audio into the video switcher, ensuring professional-quality sound and visuals.

Broadband Setup: For the first time, we’ll be attempting to establish broadband from the club venue, a critical component for the live broadcast.

Tight Schedule: With limited time, teamwork and precision will be essential to overcome these technical challenges and deliver an incredible film festival event.

This is a fantastic opportunity for members to get involved in a real-world online broadcast setup, learn new skills, and collaborate as a team to make the night unforgettable.

About the Festival

At WeMakeFilms, we champion the creativity and ingenuity of indie filmmakers working with modest resources. Our festival levels the playing field by focusing on films with lower production budgets, ensuring great storytelling and innovation take centre stage.

The festival features four categories:

🎥 Production Value Under £500/$600🎥 Production Value Under £1,500/$1,800🎥 Production Value Under £5,000/$6,000🎨 Animations Only

What to Expect on the Night

📽️ Finalists’ Screenings

We’ll be showcasing the three finalists from each category, giving the audience a chance to enjoy a diverse selection of creative and innovative films.

🏆 Audience Awards

The audience will have the exciting opportunity to vote for their favourite films, determining the winners of the Audience Awards for each category.

🎖️ Category Awards

We’ll also announce the Best Film and Audience Awards awards in each category, recognising outstanding achievements in indie filmmaking.

Why Attend?

This is a fantastic opportunity to:

Experience a celebration of creativity and resourcefulness in filmmaking.

Discover powerful stories and unique perspectives from talented indie filmmakers.

Be part of an audience that directly influences the festival awards.

Connect with fellow film enthusiasts and filmmakers.

Event Details

📅 Date: Tuesday, 7th January 2025🕢 Time: 7:45 pm – 10:00 pm

This promises to be an inspiring and entertaining evening for anyone who loves the art of storytelling and independent filmmaking.

Mark your calendar, and join us as we celebrate the filmmakers who bring incredible stories to life with creativity, passion, and ingenuity.

We look forward to seeing you in person at the film festival!

To see future events go to our events section.

Workshop Series: Part 1 - Create Our Club Promotional Video
2025-01-21 19:45 - 22:00 | Sutton FilmMakers Club – Parochial Rooms, 42 The Broadway, Cheam, Surrey, SM3 8BL, United Kingdom
Session led by Tom McDaniel

Part 1: Brainstorming and Planning

Dive into the creative process with the first part of our workshop series, dedicated to brainstorming and planning our club promotional video. This session is all about unleashing your creativity and coming together as a team to conceive a video that captures the essence and excitement of our club.

We’ll kick off the series with a dynamic brainstorming session where creativity knows no bounds. This is your chance to pitch in with ideas that reflect the spirit and activities of our club. Think big, think bold—no idea is too whacky!

This is our old promo. Perhaps you can watch this and think of things we could do to update it and/or improve it.

What We’ll Do:

Creative Icebreakers: We’ll start the session with fun icebreakers designed to get the creative juices flowing and ensure everyone is comfortable sharing their ideas.

Idea Generation: Using techniques such as mind mapping and group brainstorming, we will explore various themes and concepts that could represent our club. Whether it’s the thrill of capturing the perfect shot, the satisfaction of editing a scene just right, or the camaraderie at our club meetings, we want your input on what makes our club special.

Storyboarding Workshop: Once we’ve landed on our main concepts, we’ll break into smaller groups to start creating storyboards. This visual planning technique will help us organize our thoughts and plot out the sequence of the video. We’ll discuss narrative flow, key messages, and how to best represent our club’s activities and ethos visually.

Scriptwriting Basics: For sections of the video that require scripted dialogue or narration, we’ll offer a mini-workshop on scriptwriting. Learn how to write engaging and clear scripts that convey our message and add a professional touch to our video.

Role Assignments: At the end of the session, we’ll discuss the various roles needed to bring our video to life. This is a great opportunity for members to volunteer for specific tasks that suit their skills or interests, such as directing, camera operation, sound recording, acting, or editing.

Examples of What We Could Do:

Behind-the-Scenes Montage: We could create a dynamic montage that shows the behind-the-scenes workings of our club, from planning a shoot to the excitement of a live filming session.

Day in the Life: Feature a ‘day in the life’ of different club members, highlighting the diverse roles and experiences within our community.

Club Achievements: Showcase the achievements and milestones of our club through interviews or narrative storytelling, highlighting how our activities have impacted members and the local community.

Preparation for Participants

To make the most of this workshop, we encourage you to come prepared with any ideas, photos, or materials that you think could be useful. Think about what aspects of the club you find most engaging or unique, and consider how these could be translated into video content.

Join Us: Your ideas and creativity are crucial to making this project a success. This brainstorming session is not just about coming up with ideas—it’s about setting the stage for a video that truly represents who we are as a club. Let’s create something amazing together!

On our next meet on the 4th February 2025 we’ll tackle Part 2.

Workshop Series: Part 2 – Create Our Club Promotional Video
2025-02-04 19:45 - 22:00 | Surrey
Part 2: Filming and Production

After a successful brainstorming and planning session in Part 1, Part 2 of our workshop series moves us into the exciting phase of actual filming. This club night is dedicated to turning our collective vision into reality as we work together to capture the footage that will showcase the spirit and creativity of our club.

Behind-the-Scenes: Star Wars Fan Scene Filming

Join us for an electrifying club night where fantasy meets film-making! Tomorrow night, we’re diving into the universe of Star Wars with a thrilling fan scene. Witness two of our members engage in an epic lightsaber duel against a green screen, bringing the excitement of intergalactic battles right to our club.

What’s Happening:

Lightsaber Duel: Watch a live filming of a Star Wars fan scene featuring a dramatic lightsaber fight.

Technical Showcase: Explore how we light and shoot dynamic action against a green screen.

Behind-the-Scenes Footage: Participate in or observe the making of this scene. This footage will be a key feature in our club’s promotional video.

Gear in Action:

Experience the magic of cinema with our track and dolly setup, designed to capture smooth, cinematic motion against a green screen. Whilst at the same time capturing the behind the scenes of all the setup and action.

Looking Ahead:

In the coming months, we’ll continue to capture exciting footage for our club’s promo. Expect to see drone flights, steadicam operations, dynamic car chases, and more. Each session offers a unique chance to learn and engage with different filming techniques.

Don’t Miss Out: This is a fantastic opportunity for anyone interested in special effects, cinematography, or just the magic of Star Wars. Come and be part of this cinematic adventure!

Post-Part 1 Update: Please note that the specific activities for this session will be updated and finalised based on the outcomes and decisions made during Part 1. This ensures that our filming night is as productive and focused as possible, directly aligning with our pre-established creative vision.

Join Us: This filming night is your opportunity to bring our brainstormed ideas to life. Whether you’re behind the camera, acting, or helping with logistics, your participation is crucial. Join us to not only help produce our promotional video but also to gain practical filming experience in a collaborative and supportive environment.just for the video we create but for the skills and connections we build together in the process.

See the details of part 1

Microphones what to use for what conditions
2025-02-18 19:45 - 22:00 | Sutton FilmMakers Club – Parochial Rooms, 42 The Broadway, Cheam, Surrey, SM3 8BL, United Kingdom
Workshop: Choosing the Right Microphone for Any Situation

Session led by Giovanni

Sound is one of the most crucial elements in filmmaking, get it wrong, and even the best-shot film can feel unprofessional. But how do you know which microphone to use in different situations?

Join Giovanni Tria, Sutton Filmmakers club member, production sound recordist, and composer, for an insightful and hands-on workshop on choosing the right microphone for the job. Drawing on his experience working in the field, Giovanni will guide us through the different types of microphones and how to get the best results in any recording scenario.

What You’ll Learn:

🎤 Choosing the Right Microphone for Different Situations – Understand the most common microphones used in production sound and when to use them. We’ll cover:

Shotgun Microphones – Highly directional and ideal for capturing clean dialogue on set, but how do you use them effectively?

Lavalier (Lapel) Microphones – Perfect for discreetly miking up actors, but what’s the best way to place them for clear sound?

Handheld Microphones – Often used for interviews and live events, but when should you use these in filmmaking?

Boom Microphones – Learn proper booming techniques and how to avoid handling noise while keeping the mic out of frame.

Boundary and Plant Mics – Lesser-known but incredibly useful for capturing ambient sound or dialogue in tricky situations.

🎧 Capturing Great Sound – Learn the best techniques for recording clean dialogue, even in challenging environments.

🔊 Dealing with Background Noise – Discover the best ways to minimise unwanted noise and improve audio quality when filming on location.

🎬 Practical Recording Session – Get hands-on experience! You’ll have the chance to test different microphones and record various scenarios, such as dialogue scenes, to hear the differences for yourself.

Whether you’re a director, sound recordist, or just curious about how to improve your audio, this workshop is not to be missed. Come along, get involved, and take your sound recording skills to the next level!

Checkout Giovanni’s previous night where he blew everyone away with his evenings on creating foley Giovanni Tria’s Sound Design and the use of Foley Workshop

Lighting an interview
2025-03-04 19:45 - 22:00 | Surrey
Session led by Frank Hammond

Master the Art of Interview Lighting: A Hands-On Workshop

Interviews are a fundamental element across various media formats, including documentaries, corporate videos, news segments, and more. The way an interview is filmed and lit can profoundly influence the viewer’s perception and emotional response. From soft, sensitive lighting to a more robust, warm vibe, the possibilities are endless. This workshop, led by industry expert Frank Hammond, will explore the full spectrum of lighting techniques tailored to different interview scenarios.

What You’ll Learn

Lighting Dynamics: Understand how different lighting setups can be used to convey mood and atmosphere in an interview. Learn how soft lighting can be employed for sensitive topics or how a warm ambiance can enhance more relaxed conversations.

Special Techniques for Anonymity: Discover techniques for lighting interviews where the subject wishes to remain anonymous, using silhouetting to protect identities while still delivering impactful content.

Spotlighting for Dramatic Effect: Gain insights into using spotlighting effectively, particularly for interviews conducted on stages or in settings where a subject needs to stand out dramatically from the background.

Workshop Features

Interactive Sessions with Frank Hammond: Engage directly with Frank, a seasoned director of photography and lighting gaffer with seven years of experience. Frank’s work in lighting and cinematography has been recognized with several industry awards. Based in Banstead, he runs a successful production and lighting rental company.

Hands-On Experience: Get practical, hands-on experience with state-of-the-art lighting equipment typically used on high-end interview sets. Learn how to manipulate these tools to create the desired visual effects.

Live Demonstrations: See real-time demonstrations of various lighting techniques, ranging from basic setups to more complex, nuanced configurations.

Q&A Sessions: Have your specific questions answered in an open Q&A session with Frank. Whether you’re curious about technical details, creative choices, or industry practices, this is your chance to gain valuable insights.

Who Should Attend? This workshop is ideal for aspiring and experienced filmmakers, cinematographers, media students, and anyone interested in understanding the power of lighting in video production. Whether you’re looking to refine your skills or explore new creative techniques, this workshop will provide a comprehensive understanding of how to light interviews effectively.

Join Us for an Illuminating Experience Don’t miss this opportunity to elevate your lighting skills under the guidance of a seasoned professional. Bring your creativity, your questions, and a readiness to get involved with some of the most sophisticated lighting equipment available today. Secure your spot now and take your first step towards mastering the art of interview lighting!

George Burt Workshop
2025-03-18 19:45 - 22:00 | Sutton FilmMakers Club – Parochial Rooms, 42 The Broadway, Cheam, Surrey, SM3 8BL, United Kingdom
A night with an old club member George Burt DOP

Led by George Burt

George started his career making short films with us here at SFM and has travelled the world making films ever since.

His portfolio of work covers the spectrum. From shooting documentaries to high end beauty and fashion commercials, he also shot over thirty feature length, TV shows and short films.

This will be a great evening for anyone wanting to know more about the role of a Director of Photography with plenty of tips, inside knowledge and some cheeky stories!

In pre production Tom and I discussed how we were going to create a sense of tension through depth and small details within our masters mid shots like a Gregory Crewdson photo. Gregory’s work has a fantastic cinematic feel to it and at the same time something creepy is happening within the image. This is the feeling we want to evoke in the audience.

Filming took place on the remote Caribbean island of Nevis. As it turned out, there hadn’t been a single case of COVID for nearly one year on the tropical island. It also was one of the most idyllic spots to shoot a movie with its stunning and vast locations. After 14 days of isolation in a shared house we began location scouting on the film. After being set free, we were shown the island’s attractions and given a tour of Nevis. We rapidly came to the conclusion that we should avoid everything with a touristy appearance because this wasn’t the world we had first hoped for.

See George’s Website

Anthology Pitching Night
2025-04-01 19:45 - 22:00 | Surrey
Directing for the Anthology

Session led by Adrian Dean & Rhys Davies

The Anthology Film Project is moving forward, and we are now entering a crucial new stage – assigning directors to the scripts! This is your chance to take the helm of a short film, bring a script to life, and gain hands-on directing experience.

We’ve received nearly 30 short scripts, each under 10 minutes, and while some already have directors attached, many are still open for pitching.

📅 Date: Tuesday, 1st April 2025🕖 Time: 7:45 PM – 10:00 PM📍 Location: Parochial Rooms, 42 The Broadway, Cheam, Surrey, SM3 8BL

How to Get Involved as a Director or a Producer

🔹 Browse the Scripts – All available scripts are now uploaded to the club website on our Anthology Pitching 2025 page. Those scripts that are open for pitching will be on that page. Each script includes a short synopsis and the full script to help you decide which one suits your vision. This page also includes a form for you to complete to let us know that you want script you want to pitch for.

🔹 Prepare Your Pitch – If you’d like to direct an available script, prepare a short pitch outlining:

Why you want to direct or produce this script

Your creative vision – tone, style, inspirations

Production ideas – locations, casting, crew needs

Again see our Anthology Pitching 2025 page for full details.

🔹 Attend Pitch Night – On the night, each person will have 2-3 minutes to present their pitch. If multiple people pitch for the same script, the decision will be made based on experience, vision, and suitability.

Important Notes

If you wrote a script, you are welcome to direct it, but any additional scripts you submitted must be directed by someone else.

If you are new to directing, don’t worry! We can pair you with a mentor to support you throughout the process.

Once all scripts have directors, we will move forward with casting, scheduling, and pre-production.

Why Get Involved?

This is a fantastic opportunity to direct a short film, develop your skills, and contribute to one of Sutton Filmmakers’ biggest projects yet. Whether you’re an experienced filmmaker or stepping into the director’s chair for the first time, this is your moment to shape a film from script to screen.

We can’t wait to hear your ideas and see your vision come to life!

Got any questions? Get in touch! Otherwise, we’ll see you on Pitch Night! 🎬

Anthology First Table Read
2025-04-15 19:30 - 22:30 | Sutton FilmMakers Club – Parochial Rooms, 42 The Broadway, Cheam, Surrey, SM3 8BL, United Kingdom
First Table Read Session

Session led by Rhys Davies

As we move forward with the Anthology Film Project, we’re excited to begin the crucial next stage: Table Reads. This is where scripts truly start to come to life, giving us the opportunity to hear them aloud, refine dialogue, and shape the vision for each film.

In this session, we will focus on the first few scripts that are set to go into production but do not yet have a director assigned. This is an opportunity for both writers and potential directors to collaborate, experiment with ideas, and discuss how these stories can be developed into engaging short films.

What to Expect from the Table Read

Exploring Dialogue in Screenwriting – Hearing the scripts read aloud allows us to assess how dialogue shapes character, tone, and pacing.

Establishing the Fundamentals of Drama – We’ll discuss what makes each scene engaging and emotionally compelling, ensuring the storytelling is as strong as possible.

Feedback & Discussion – This is an open forum to share insights, refine scripts, and strengthen the Anthology Film Project as a whole.

If you’re a writer, director, or actor, this session is a great way to get involved in the creative process. It’s an opportunity to develop and refine scripts before they go into production, as well as a chance for club members to step forward and express their interest in directing these films.

Below, you’ll find the scripts we will be reading during this session. Each script is available to read online and download, so please take a look in advance and come prepared to contribute to the discussion.

Scripts For The Table Read

Adam is Feeling Fine

Without an internet connection to regulate him, an android son threatens to go rogue – but the father’s grief prevents him from shutting it down. The only solution? Send in the android’s twin…

No of pages –

11

Author –

Paul Dryland

David Shoots His shot

David has fallen for his manager and wants expresses his love over a conference call. What could go wrong?

No of pages –

5

Author –

Adrian Dean

Breaking Up

As internet-based communications start to fail, will a couple in trouble be able to express themselves before they’re cut off forever?

No of pages –

3

Author –

Rhys Davies

New Technologies Workshop: Working With PTZ Cameras
2025-05-06 19:45 - 22:00 | Sutton FilmMakers Club – Parochial Rooms, 42 The Broadway, Cheam, Surrey, SM3 8BL, United Kingdom
New Technologies Workshop: Working With PTZ Cameras

Session led by Paul Howard and Peter Leverick

Join us for an informative and hands-on workshop dedicated to the art of using PTZ (Pan-Tilt-Zoom) cameras for live events. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or new to the world of live production, this workshop is designed to give you the skills and confidence you need to effectively utilise PTZ cameras and video switchers in a live setting.

What are PTZ Cameras?

PTZ cameras, short for Pan-Tilt-Zoom cameras, are advanced video cameras designed to provide flexible and dynamic coverage of a scene. The key features of PTZ cameras include their ability to pan (move horizontally), tilt (move vertically), and zoom in or out, all of which can be controlled remotely. This versatility allows PTZ cameras to capture a wide range of shots and angles from a single camera unit, making them highly valuable in various filming and broadcasting scenarios.

Examples of PTZ Camera Usage

PTZ cameras are particularly effective in live event settings where multiple angles and smooth transitions are crucial. For example, in a live sports broadcast, PTZ cameras can be strategically placed around the venue to follow the action, zoom in on key moments, and switch between different angles without the need for a large camera crew. In educational environments, PTZ cameras are used to capture lectures and presentations, allowing for remote operation to focus on different speakers or visual aids as needed. Additionally, PTZ cameras are widely used in houses of worship to stream services, offering viewers a professional and engaging experience by smoothly transitioning between different areas of the stage or congregation. Their ability to be controlled from a distance makes them an ideal choice for situations where mobility and precision are essential.

What You’ll Learn:

Introduction to PTZ Cameras:

Discover the capabilities of PTZ cameras and how they can enhance any live event. Learn about the features that make PTZ cameras ideal for capturing dynamic, multi-angle shots without the need for additional camera operators.

Integration with Video Switchers:

Get a hands-on demonstration of how PTZ cameras work seamlessly with video switchers, specifically the ATEM Mini Extreme. See how to configure and control your cameras through the switcher, managing multiple video sources effortlessly for a polished live broadcast.

Using a PTZ Controller:

Learn how to operate a PTZ controller to manage camera movements and settings. We’ll cover the basics of setting up presets, adjusting camera angles, and coordinating smooth transitions to ensure your live event runs smoothly and professionally.

Practical Application:

Engage in live demonstrations and exercises that simulate real-world scenarios. Practice setting up and controlling PTZ cameras in a controlled environment, applying what you’ve learned to create effective and visually engaging live coverage.

This workshop offers a valuable opportunity to deepen your understanding of PTZ cameras and video switchers, equipping you with the skills needed to deliver high-quality live productions. Don’t miss out on this chance to enhance your technical expertise and elevate your event coverage!

Scene Recreation Night – Rebuild a Blockbuster Scene
2025-05-20 19:45 - 22:00 | Sutton FilmMakers Club – Parochial Rooms, 42 The Broadway, Cheam, Surrey, SM3 8BL, United Kingdom
Session led by Tom McDaniel

Have you ever watched a famous film scene and thought, “How did they make it look so good?” On Scene Recreation Night, we’ll be answering that question the best way we know how – by doing it ourselves.

This practical, hands-on workshop is one of the most popular sessions in our calendar. The idea is simple: take a scene from a well-known film and attempt to recreate the lighting, camera angles, movement and atmosphere as closely as possible using the resources we have in the room.

Forget Hollywood budgets. This is about learning to achieve cinematic results with collaboration, creativity and a bit of filmmaking know-how on one of our scene recreation nights. The fun part is seeing how much you can recreate using everyday locations, limited kit, and a few committed club members.

We will work together to stage a short scene. We’ll use the club’s lighting gear, cinema cameras and tripods or dollies to help match the original blocking and mood of the scene. And of course, we’ll need a few brave volunteers to step into the actors’ shoes.

During the scene recreation night, you’ll get to:

Work with other filmmakers to set up and shoot a selected film scene

Practise replicating lighting setups and matching camera movements

Explore different directing styles and on-set collaboration

Act in or direct familiar scenes and learn how performances affect the visual outcome

Watch back the footage and see how close we got

This is a great session for anyone who wants to improve their practical filmmaking skills in a fun, relaxed environment. Whether you’re keen to direct, light, act or simply observe and learn, there’s something for everyone.

Please note: We intend to use some of the footage shot during this session as part of the club’s new promotional video, so it’s also a great chance to show off your skills and contribute to the club’s growing body of work.

Come along and get involved – no pressure, no ego, just the shared goal of understanding how great scenes are made.

Non-members welcome for the evening (first two nights free as our guests) Here is how to find us

Date: Tuesday 20 May 2025Time: 7:45 pm – 10:00 pm

Masterclass: Getting the Exposure and Colour Right
2025-06-03 19:45 - 22:00 | Sutton FilmMakers Club – Parochial Rooms, 42 The Broadway, Cheam, Surrey, SM3 8BL, United Kingdom
Session led by Peter Leverick

Getting the exposure and colour right in-camera can be the difference between a shot that looks beautifully cinematic and one that is flat, noisy or difficult to fix in post-production. In this hands-on masterclass, we’ll explore the tools and techniques used by professional cinematographers to expose images correctly and capture colour accurately on digital cinema cameras.

This session is essential for anyone who wants to operate cameras on club shoots. Whether you’re experienced behind the lens or looking to step into the role for the first time, this is your chance to build confidence and sharpen your skills.

Whether you’re shooting a short film in a dark interior, a high-contrast outdoor scene or a fast-moving documentary, exposure can be tricky to get right. We’ll break down the practical steps to mastering this crucial aspect of your craft.

Why it matters

Shooting a dialogue scene in a dimly lit restaurant? Relying too much on the monitor could mean underexposing your shadows and introducing noisy footage.

Filming a wedding outdoors on a sunny day? Your highlights can blow out in an instant, especially on white dresses or bright skies, unless you know how to read a waveform monitor or use false colour.

Trying to maintain a consistent look across multiple cameras? Even slight variations in colour temperature or exposure can lead to a post-production headache.

What we’ll cover

Understanding modern exposure tools Learn how to use in-camera waveform monitors, histograms and false colour displays to assess your image accurately

ISO, shutter speed and aperture Understand how these three elements interact on digital cinema cameras and how they affect both exposure and image quality

Working with Log profiles and LUTs Why shooting in Log affects what you see on screen and how to correctly monitor it

Monitoring and interpretation How to rely less on what your monitor ‘looks’ like and more on what it’s telling you

Real-world examples We’ll discuss how different lighting conditions can affect exposure decisions – from cloudy skies to harsh interior downlights, backlit scenes to mixed light setups

Avoiding common exposure and colour mistakes Learn how to spot – and fix – issues before you hit record

This masterclass will draw on the experience of professionals who’ve made the shift from film to digital and know exactly what to look out for. We’ll also explore why many veteran DOPs held onto their light meters for years, and why today’s tools make that debate less relevant – but no less interesting.

If you want to be a camera operator on club productions, this is a must-attend session. It’s your opportunity to build your technical knowledge and gain hands-on experience that will make you an asset to any production team.

Come ready to learn, ask questions and see the difference that proper exposure and colour handling can make.

Planning Night & Bring Your Own Kit
2025-06-17 19:45 - 22:00 | Sutton FilmMakers Club – Parochial Rooms, 42 The Broadway, Cheam, Surrey, SM3 8BL, United Kingdom
Collaborative Gear Exploration

Session led by Led by Paul Howard and ALL the Club Experts and Mentors (We need you!!!)

This session is part planning meeting, part hands-on technical night – designed to get everyone involved and inspired for the months ahead.

We’ll be shaping the club’s autumn and winter plans, brainstorming project ideas, and hearing from members about what sessions they’d love to see. But we also know that planning nights can feel a little “admin-heavy”, so we’re combining it with something more interactive and fun…

Bring Your Own Kit Night!

Whether you’ve got a cinema camera or a smartphone gimbal, a new lighting rig or an old lens you’re not sure how to use, bring it along. Or perhaps you just want to show off your amaizing new bit of kit you have. I’m sure some off us will fawn and drool over it.

This is your chance to:

Get hands-on advice from fellow members

Test and troubleshoot your setup with help from others

Share tips on gear you know and love

Try out different cameras, lenses or lights in a relaxed environment

We’ll have areas for members to set up and demonstrate, and you’re welcome to walk around, learn, chat and collaborate.

This night is perfect for:

Anyone looking to get more confident with their gear

New members wanting to connect

Experienced filmmakers who want to share their know-how

Those who just want to see what toys other people are using!

Come for the planning, stay for the tinkering. No pressure, just ideas, discussion and film gear chat.

Visitors welcome! Your first two club nights are free as our guest. Find us here.

Come ready to learn, ask questions and see the difference that proper exposure and colour handling can make.

Spy Scene: Shoot and Adapt on the Night
2025-07-01 19:45 - 22:15 | Surrey
As part of our Film-in-a-Night Summer Challenge on 1st July, below is a short, suspenseful scene, your mission is to bring it to life in just a few hours using whatever crew, cast and creativity you have at hand.

The script, set in a public space at night, features two mysterious figures meeting for a secretive exchange. It’s simple, atmospheric and open to interpretation. Think espionage, noir thriller, or a spoof comedy — the tone is up to you.

You’ll be encouraged to:

Choose a nearby location that works for your take on the scene — a park, alleyway, quiet street or car park.

Add your own visual flair, dialogue, or twists to make it your own.

Plan and shoot efficiently in teams with limited time and kit.

Bring your own kit if you like, or make use of the club’s gear, we’ll have a couple of rigs available, along with tripods, handheld rigs and lights for teams to share and experiment with.

This is a fantastic opportunity to practise on-location filmmaking, quick thinking, and collaborative creativity, all under time pressure. We’ll finish the night by reviewing rushes or early edits, and the best footage may even be used in the club’s promotional materials.

No pressure, no perfection, just real-world experience and loads of fun.

Spy SceneDownload

In-camera Colour Matching Workshop part II
2025-07-15 19:45 - 22:00 | Sutton FilmMakers Club – Parochial Rooms, 42 The Broadway, Cheam, Surrey, SM3 8BL, United Kingdom
Session led by Peter Leverit

Following on from our popular “Getting Exposure and Colour Right” masterclass, this session takes things a step further with a practical evening of multi-camera In-camera Colour Matching.

Using both club cameras and any equipment members bring along, we’ll aim to set up a short scene with multiple angles — and then work together to ensure the footage matches across all sources. This session is perfect for those looking to build skills in multi-camera continuity, lighting consistency, and matching colour profiles from different makes and models.

What we’ll cover on the In-camera Colour Matching night

Balancing cameras: Exposure, white balance, and picture profiles

Lighting consistency: Working with one lighting setup to serve multiple angles

Practical camera setup: Framing, placement, and coordination of shots

Using tools: Waveforms, vectorscopes, and lookup tables (LUTs) where available

Matching footage in post: A quick look at what you can fix after the shoot

We’ll be feeding all compatible cameras into our video switchers, allowing us to monitor all live angles at once and compare the In-camera Colour Matching Workshop part II with regards to image consistency in real time. This gives us a fantastic opportunity to see how exposure, colour, and lighting decisions hold up across multiple cameras simultaneously.

Please note: not all cameras may be capable of live output, but we’ll work with what we have and adapt accordingly.

We will have the club cameras and a grey scale card.

What to bring:

Your camera, if you have one (any brand or level welcome)

Tripod or rig if available

Any tools you use for exposure or colour balancing

This session is about collaboration, experimentation, and shared learning. Come along and see how small changes can make a huge difference to the final result.

Come ready to learn, ask questions and see the difference that proper exposure and colour handling can make.

Can you tell a story in just a 1 minute film?
2025-08-05 19:45 - 22:15 | Sutton FilmMakers Club – Parochial Rooms, 42 The Broadway, Cheam, Surrey, SM3 8BL, United Kingdom
Session led by Paul Dryland

Make a a 1 minute film in an evening.

Back by popular demand, this fast-paced, creative evening will see club members split into small teams and challenged to create a compelling short film in just two hours, with a maximum running time of 60 seconds! Yes, a a 1 minute film.

This session is about thinking on your feet, making quick creative decisions, and focusing on tight, visual storytelling. You’ll need to plan fast and shoot smart to get your idea across in under a minute. Editing can be done afterwards, so the focus will be on capturing the footage within the two-hour window.

You can bring your own cameras or use club equipment. We’ll have tripods, handheld rigs and a couple of basic kits ready to go. The beauty of this challenge is how much you can achieve with limited gear and lots of imagination.

The films can be any genre or style, drama, comedy, horror, documentary or something experimental. Be bold, be creative! You can build your teams in advance, or simply come along and take pot luck on the night. We suggest thinking ahead about what you might like to shoot, so you’re not starting entirely from scratch when the clock begins.

We’ll watch the finished films together at a club night a month or two afterwards and celebrate the creativity that can come from a ticking clock and a great idea.

Whether you’re new to filmmaking or want to hone your storytelling under pressure, this is a fun and energising session where everyone can contribute. Come and test your skills – and your stopwatch!

Below is a Group Prompt & Planning Sheet for you to use

1-Minute_Film_Script_Prompt_Two_PageDownload

Sound Recording Workshop (Hands-On)
2025-08-19 19:45 - 22:15 | Sutton FilmMakers Club – Parochial Rooms, 42 The Broadway, Cheam, Surrey, SM3 8BL, United Kingdom
Join us for a practical evening focused on one of the most critical (but often overlooked) elements of filmmaking – sound recording. This hands-on workshop is designed to help you get to grips with the gear we use most often on club shoots, and to build your confidence when capturing dialogue on set.

Whether you’re new to sound or looking to sharpen your skills, this is a chance to learn through doing.

What we’ll cover:

How to position a shotgun mic on a boom for clean, consistent dialogue

Tips for working with personal (lav) mics, including hiding techniques and avoiding rustle

Basic techniques for monitoring and adjusting levels on the fly

Understanding mic placement in relation to framing and movement

Working collaboratively with the camera and directing team

Common pitfalls in low-budget sound recording and how to avoid them

We’ll be working with real scenes and actors, rotating through sound roles so everyone gets hands-on experience.

Equipment focus:

This session will focus on club-owned gear, including:

Rode NTG2 shotgun mic with boom pole and shock mount

Sennheiser G3 wireless lavalier mics

Zoom audio recorders and club headphones

We’ll set up practical filming situations where you can test mic placement, record takes, and review sound quality – all with immediate feedback and support. If you’ve ever worried about background noise, inconsistent levels, or that dreaded rustle from a shirt collar, this is your chance to troubleshoot and learn the fixes in real time.

Bring your own kit too (optional)

If you have your own mics, recorders, or headphones, feel free to bring them along and compare setups.

Stepping Into the Director’s Chair
2025-09-02 19:45 - 22:15 | Sutton FilmMakers Club – Parochial Rooms, 42 The Broadway, Cheam, Surrey, SM3 8BL, United Kingdom
Session led by – Adrian Dean

Directing is often thought of as calling “action” and “cut,” but it’s so much more than that. A director’s choices shape the entire mood and impact of a film — from the way a scene is shot, to how the actors interpret their lines, to the music and locations that set the atmosphere.

Then it’s your turn. We’ll split into groups and give everyone the same short script. Each team will direct and film their version of the scene, applying their own ideas and instincts. Afterwards, we’ll watch back the results to see how differently the same script can play out when filtered through a new creative lens.

At this session, we’ll explore what it really means to sit in the director’s chair. Together, we’ll break down the different areas where a director makes key decisions: storyboarding, shot composition, performance, casting ideas, music, and location. You’ll see just how much power there is in these choices, and how dramatically they can change the tone of the final film.

It promises to be a fun, interactive evening where everyone gets the chance to be hands-on. Whether you’re new to filmmaking or a seasoned club regular, this workshop is designed to spark creativity, collaboration, and discussion. You might even discover a hidden flair for directing that you didn’t know you had!

So come along, take the hot seat, and find out where your directing instincts will take you.

No experience necessary. Just bring your enthusiasm and maybe a script or story you’d like to try reading on camera. If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to be on the other side of the lens – this is your night!

Guests welcome. First two sessions free for visitors.

Project & Networking Night
2025-09-16 19:45 - 22:15 | Sutton FilmMakers Club – Parochial Rooms, 42 The Broadway, Cheam, Surrey, SM3 8BL, United Kingdom
Our regular club nights are always full of energy, packed with workshops, shoots, and hands-on activities. But one thing that often gets lost in the buzz is the chance to sit down, talk through ideas, and plan future projects together.

This Project & Networking Night is designed to give us that space.

It’s part social evening and part working session. You’ll have the chance to grab a cuppa, catch up with fellow members, and then dive into proper conversations about the projects you’re working on — or the ones you’d love to start.

The Anthology Films will be a key focus. With so many moving parts to bring together, this is the perfect time for those involved to share updates, discuss logistics, and map out next steps. Heads of department will also have the chance to meet and coordinate roles so that everyone knows who’s doing what.

This is nothing like our club nights – but we can aim for it!

But it’s not just about the anthology. If you’ve got a project of your own — whether it’s a short film idea, a documentary, or just a creative experiment — this is your chance to talk it through with the group, find collaborators, or get some constructive feedback.

By the end of the night, you’ll come away with a clearer plan, fresh ideas, and stronger connections with other members. And because it’s a social as well, you’ll also have had time to relax, chat, and enjoy the company of fellow filmmakers without the usual pressure of a busy club night.

So bring along your ideas, your enthusiasm, and maybe even your notebook — this is a night to share, plan, and make things happen.

Guests welcome. First two sessions free for visitors.

Newsdesk Green Screen Presenter Night
2025-10-07 19:45 - 22:15 | Sutton FilmMakers Club – Parochial Rooms, 42 The Broadway, Cheam, Surrey, SM3 8BL, United Kingdom
Step into the spotlight and take the anchor’s chair.

In this fun, hands-on session, we’ll transform the club into a working TV studio. You’ll have the opportunity to present a news-style piece to camera using our green screen setup, complete with virtual backdrops and studio-style lighting.

Whether you want to try your hand as a newsreader, field reporter, or host of a mock chat show, we’ll have scripts and formats available for you to try – or you can bring your own material to perform. This session is ideal for anyone looking to build confidence in front of the camera or learn how to direct presenter-led content.

We’ll cover:

Lighting and framing for green screen shoots

Reading to camera and using autocue prompts

Positioning and timing for live-style recording

Directing presenters and working as a studio crew

Tips on scripting engaging pieces to camera

This time, we’ll also be giving our presenters a topical challenge: reporting on a breaking story that ‘the internet has gone down across the globe.’ With the cause unknown and no idea if or when it will return, you’ll have the chance to deliver this dramatic piece of news straight to camera, footage we hope to use in our upcoming anthology project.

This is a collaborative session, so there will be plenty of chances to try out different roles, whether that’s presenting, directing, operating cameras or mixing live feeds. If you’re more comfortable behind the scenes, we’ll need people to manage sound, lighting, and recording too.

The best footage from the evening may be used in future Sutton FilmMakers promo videos, turned into short presenter reels for those taking part, or even featured in our anthology project.

No experience necessary. Just bring your enthusiasm and maybe a script or story you’d like to try reading on camera. If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to be on the other side of the lens – this is your night!

Guests welcome. First two sessions free for visitors.

Casting Night for the Anthology Films
2025-10-21 19:45 - 22:15 | Sutton FilmMakers Club – Parochial Rooms, 42 The Broadway, Cheam, Surrey, SM3 8BL, United Kingdom
Session led by Adrian Dean and Rhys Davies

Lights, camera… auditions!

We’re entering the casting phase for our exciting Sutton FilmMakers Anthology Project, and this club night will be dedicated to auditioning actors for a selection of the short films we’re producing as part of the series.

We’d like to invite performers from local drama groups to join us for the evening and actors that would like to be involved. You do NOT have to be a member. They’ll be reading scenes from selected scripts, giving directors and producers a chance to see how different actors bring the material to life. This is your chance to meet local talent, hear your lines performed aloud, and make decisions about who’s right for each role.

It is FREE for those auditioning.

We’ll be:

Auditioning roles from several anthology scripts

Inviting actors from the local community

Filming test scenes where needed, to help with casting decisions

Finalising casting for shoots scheduled in the months ahead

We’re looking for a diverse range of actors for several upcoming short films and scripts.

We’re currently accepting self-tapes and encourage everyone to audition. Even if you’re not cast in this round, your audition will be considered for future projects in the anthology. The Casting night is on the 21st If you can’t make the night a selftape can work.. The self tapes do not have to be videography master pieces, we just want to see you act.

Details: To read the scripts simple click on the film name.

Echoes of Silence (family drama):

DAUGHTER: 16, female – sarcastic

MOTHER: 40, female – playful & warm

FATHER: 40, male – loves a bit of banter

GRANDMOTHER: 65-70 patient – wise & playful

TV BROADCAST: 30-50, any gender

The Scam (slice-of-life drama):

PETER: 60-70, male, well spoken

YOUNG PETER: 25-35, male, well spoken

PETER’S SON: 20-30, male, techy/geeky

EVELYN: 60-70, female, well spoken

JOHN/SIMON: 50-60, male, accents preferred

After I Am (family drama):

BILLY: 7-11, male

GINA: 30-40, female

GRANDDAD: 50+, male

Undelivered (action):

DELIVERY CYCLIST: any age and gender – own bike preferred

WORKER: any age and gender

RECIPIENT: any age and gender

Self Driving Trouble (workplace drama):

LESLIE: 20, male – timid but earnest

TARON: 40, male – chaotic and in-command

Threadbare (sewing bee comedy):

CLEANER: 30+, any age and gender

DEREK: 50-60, male – cheerful and calm

LUCY: 28, female – warm-hearted but tired-looking

MARGARET: 40s, female – prim, proper, composed but warm

PAM 58, female – quick, colourful and with (a Northern Irish lilt, not essential)

If you’re interested, please submit (if you have them) your headshot, résumé, and self-tape of one page from the relevant script(s) if you can’t make the night. Please complete the form on this page – Casting Call.

If you’re involved in one of the anthology films, or simply want to learn more about directing actors and running auditions, this is a must-attend session. And if you’re an actor yourself, you’re very welcome to attend and read – just let us know in advance!

Whether you’re a director with a script in the anthology, a writer curious to hear your dialogue off the page, or just interested in the casting process, this will be a lively and engaging evening.

The casting choices made here will shape the next phase of the project, so come along and help us discover the faces of our upcoming productions.
