In a world increasingly concerned about the preservation of the natural landscape and biodiversity of species, natural history, wildlife, and science, filmmaking has taken a top row. In this new workshop, students learn the basics of nature, natural history, wildlife and science film production. Taking advantage of the rich flora and fauna surrounding Rockport, Maine, the workshop focuses on subjects such as tide pools, lobsters, seabirds, and other species distinct to the region. In teams of two, students research, film and edit a three-minute video. Each team has one day to research, two days to film, and two days to write and edit their piece. On the final day, all pieces are screened and critiqued by the class. In the evenings, there are optional screenings of acclaimed nature, wildlife, and science films.
Kate Raisz is an award-winning documentary filmmaker with more than twenty years of experience. Her films have aired on National Geographic, Discovery, The History Channel, Animal Planet and PBS as well as in museums, aquariums, and other educational venues. Kate has directed productions in more than fifteen countries throughout Europe, Latin America, and Africa. Currently she is working on high-definition productions that focus on natural history and underwater exploration. A recent project, People of the Seal, a film Kate directed, won a Special Jury Award at the International Wildlife Film Festival, Best of Category at the CINE Montana Festival and was nominated for Best Documentary at the American Indian Film Festival.