What is Mini Makers Film Lab?
Mini Makers Film Lab is a creative home for young storytellers. Our after-school classes and workshops in East Nashville invite students to explore the magic of filmmaking in an environment that is welcoming and encouraging.
At Mini Makers, we believe filmmaking is more than learning how to use a camera — it’s learning how to see the world with curiosity, confidence, and empathy. Here, students develop real film skills while discovering their own artistic point of view. Each project becomes an opportunity to express who they are, what they care about, and the stories they want to tell.
We celebrate individuality, collaboration, and the joy of making something together. Whether a student is interested in filmmaking or is just looking for a creative outlet, this is a place where they can experiment and grow as artists.
“Cinema is a mirror by which we often see ourselves. ”
Explore our classes
Dates and Time: June 1-5, 2026, 9am-3pm
Film Screening: TBA
Location: Digital Love Studio, 1015 W Kirkland Ave Suite 403
We are excited to announce the summer edition of our flagship class, which introduces filmmakers aged 10-14 to the world of documentary filmmaking. Through hands-on lessons, viewing short docs and clips for reference and inspiration, creative prompts, and collaboration, students learn how to transform everyday life into powerful visual stories.
Students will explore Development and Research, Story and Point of View, Interviewing and Listening, Camera Basics, and Editing Fundamentals.
Field trip (walking distance) to our neighbors, Contrast Cine and The Backlot, a camera and gear rental house and professional production studio, respectively.
Special guest artists, from editors to cinematographers and producers.
By the end of the week, students will have collaboratively shot a documentary short about their lives. They will collectively decide the specific subject matter and direction of the film. Students will either choose or be assigned crew positions (based on age). Editing will be done by our team.
We will celebrate their work with a screening for families and friends!
Course required materials: Equipment and snacks will be provided. Students must bring a lunch.
Limited scholarships available. If needed, email us at the address on the Contact page.
REGISTRATION CLOSED. NEXT CLASS FALL 2026
Dates and Time: 4:30pm-6:00 pm. March 18, March 25, April 1, April 8, April 15
Film Screening: Saturday, April 25
Location: Digital Love Studio, 1015 W Kirkland Ave Suite 403
Our flagship class introduces filmmakers aged 11-14 to the world of documentary filmmaking. Through hands-on lessons, creative prompts, and small-group collaboration, students learn how to transform everyday life into powerful visual stories.
What They’ll Explore:
Story and Point of View - What makes a true story meaningful? How do we choose a subject? Why does perspective matter?
Interviewing and Listening - Students learn to craft thoughtful questions, conduct empathetic interviews, and capture authentic voices.
Camera Basics - Framing, composition, movement, and how to shoot with intention (using beginner-friendly video cameras or smartphones).
Editing Fundamentals - How to build a narrative, find emotion in the footage, and add rhythm, clarity, and creative choices.
What They’ll Make:
By the end of the course, each student will create a short documentary project - from idea to final cut. We will celebrate their work with a screening for families and friends!
Course required materials: a camera or smartphone capable of video and access to an editing app. We will provide suggestions ahead of the lab.
Limited scholarships available. If needed, email us at the address on the Contact page.
Designed for students who want more individual attention, our private sessions focus on refining your voice, building technical skills, and bringing your ideas to life - at your own pace - with personalized, one-on-one guidance.
Our private sessions are tailored to each student’s interests and experience level, whether you want to strengthen your cinematography, develop storytelling techniques, or create your own short film or documentary. Lessons will be hands-on and focused, giving you direct feedback, practical exercises, and real-world insight you won’t get in a group setting.
Perfect for students preparing for film school or personal projects. Recommended for high school aged students.
$145 for one 90 minute session | $525 for a 4-pack
Location: Inglewood, East Nashville
Limited availability. Sessions will be scheduled after purchase.