Filming with Our Young Actors: A Successful Experiment

Acting On-set

Filming with our young actors. A successful experiment. On Wednesday, we took our group of young actors out to film on location in our local village. This shoot was different from previous ones as we experimented with new cameras. The aim was to streamline our filming process and make it more enjoyable for the children. In the past, we’ve used a single camera, which required resetting for each shot—whether it was a wide shot, medium shot, or close-up. This process slowed us down considerably.

This time, however, we adopted a more efficient method, using smaller cameras mounted on stabilisers, allowing us to film with two cameras simultaneously for each take. The result? A much faster, smoother experience for everyone involved. The children especially appreciated the pace, as they no longer had to wait around while we reset the camera; we moved straight from one shot to the next without delay.

The children were incredibly engaged and likely gained more from the experience due to the quicker, more dynamic filming process. We believe this method will allow us to get out on location more often, giving the children more opportunities to learn and grow in a real-world environment.

Challenges

While the experiment was largely successful, there were a couple of challenges. Using two cameras meant we had to be very mindful of our positioning to avoid capturing each other in the shot, which took some adjustment. Additionally, we couldn’t get as many close-ups as I would have liked, but I hope that the editing process will allow us to create the desired effect without sacrificing quality.

The children, especially the younger ones, were full of enthusiasm. Some were so excited that we had to remind them to stay focused on their roles. One girl in particular couldn’t stop smiling throughout her performance, despite her role requiring a more serious expression. She eventually managed to rein it in, and given that she was new, we considered this part of her learning process.

The only recurring issue we faced was with positioning. The children kept moving to different spots in each take, which meant we had to follow them with the camera. This could have been a major issue if we were using a static camera, but we made it work. By the final shot, they had grasped the importance of hitting their marks consistently.

The teenagers, on the other hand, were more focused on rehearsing. Although they had practiced the scene a few times in class, there were still some nerves on location. However, once the filming began, those nerves faded, and they quickly settled into the process, ultimately enjoying the experience.

Phoebe and Eden in the moment

What Did They Learn?

Filming with our Young Actors – This shoot was an excellent learning opportunity for our young actors. They learned how to block a scene, understand camera angles, and respond to each other in ways that felt natural and authentic. These skills are essential for creating believable performances.

Teamwork was also a key element of the day. The children supported each other, asked questions, and worked hard to get things right. It was clear that the process mattered to them, and it’s rare to see such dedication in today’s fast-paced world. Watching them grow, develop, and take pride in their work is incredibly rewarding.

When children and teenagers feel valued—by their peers, teachers, and even a small crew—it fosters confidence. They begin to realise that their efforts are not in vain and that mastering a skill is something to be proud of. This day was a testament to their hard work, and they should be incredibly proud of themselves.