THESE school holidays, students are being offered the opportunity to learn professional filming and editing techniques.
There's also the chance to put these newfound skills to the test by entering the Cicada Award a film and animation competition with cash prizes for raising awareness of wildlife issues through film.
The workshops on how to film and edit the wildlife videos are being offered by Julie Geldard, local photography teacher and wildlife lover.
As well as learning new skills, Geckoes Wildlife Presentations will give workshop participants a look at native wildlife. Julie believes this close-up experience with wildlife will provide participants with ideal subjects as well as inspiration.
The Cicada Award is a project of Wildlife Preservation Society of Queensland, Bayside and gives students an opportunity to be rewarded for their creativity.
"We're looking for short films that inspire, touch the spirit, that make us wonder, laugh or shed a tear. Through these films, particularly if the entrants offer solutions, we can help wildlife and provide hope for the future," said Alix Baltais, Wildlife Queensland's community science officer.
"There's fun to be had making films about wildlife, it can help our wildlife and there's $1000 for first prize so there's some added incentive. Attending these workshops will be a great experience, and will give participants life-long skills in filming," Alix said.
An entrant in the current competition, Emily McHenry said the more students who entered the awards competition, the more awareness could be directed to the environment, through a medium that was assured to turn heads and keep them fixed.
"I can't endorse this program enough and I encourage kids young and old to get creative for nature's sake," she said.
Previous Cicada Awards Winning short films and entry forms are available for viewing at WPSQ Bayside site. http://branches.wildlife.org.au/bayside/
Julie encourages students to cash in on their phone or computer skills these school holidays while having fun with, and helping, our wildlife.
The workshops are supported by RedlandCity Council Conservation Grants. Spaces are strictly limited and bookings are necessary so be quick. Loan cameras are available.
Enrol for Film and Edit Workshops Filming with Real Wildlife: June 27 BayView State School Thornlands 9am-1pm; July 1 Cleveland High School Film and TV Room 9am-1pm; July 2 Indigiscapes Capalaba 9am-1pm; July 4 Kindilan Outdoor Education Centre 9am-1pm; July 5 Russell Island State School 9am-1pm.
Enrol for workshops by contacting Julie Geldard on 0438 320 750 or visit VidPicPro.com or email Jules@vidpicpro.com
