Film Making New York

NYC Content Creators Meetup: June Meetup

​Join our NYC Content Creators group, where YouTubers, TikTokers, Instagrammers, livestreamers, podcasters, and other digital innovators come together to exchange ideas, forge connections, and support each other’s growth. Expect plenty of laughs, insightful conversations, and new friendships that will ignite your creativity. We keep it fun, welcoming, and laid-back and promise an inclusive atmosphere where you can share your experiences, learn from others, and discover fresh opportunities for collaboration. All types of creators and content-adjacent professionals are welcome. Come ready to brainstorm, connect, and have fun! **Event Flow** ​**3:00–4:00 PM \| Focus Hour** We kick things off with a dedicated work block. Bring your laptop, camera, ideas, or notes. This hour is all about creating. Whether that be recording content, planning future projects, collaborating with others, or locking in on work you’ve been putting off. Headphones encouraged. Momentum required. ​**4:00–6:00 PM \| Connect \+ Chill** Once the work is done, the space opens up. Mingle, share what you’re working on, meet new people, exchange ideas, and build genuine connections in a relaxed, no-pressure environment. ​**6:00 PM → \| Happy Hour** To wrap the night, we take the energy outside. We’ll head to a nearby restaurant or bar to unwind, celebrate the work, and keep the conversations going over food and drinks. Stay Connected: Discord: [https://discord.gg/tC3mZtN92Z](https://discord.gg/tC3mZtN92Z) Instagram: [https://www.instagram.com/ccexny/](https://www.instagram.com/ccexny/) WhatsApp: ask an organizer for the link at the event

Where Art Meets Machine: Creating Stories That Change How We See

Award-winning directors **[Michaela Ternasky-Holland](https://michaelaternaskyholland.com/?utm_source=luma)** and **[Aaron Santiago](https://aaron.work/?utm_source=luma)** are building worlds at the cutting edge of AI, VR, and immersive media. ​Rather than create for spectacle, their aim is to **collapse the distance between strangers.** ​​In collaboration with the **[National Arts Club](https://www.nacnyc.org/?utm_source=luma)** and its **[Art and Technology Committee](https://www.nacnyc.org/arts-and-programs/committees?utm_source=luma)**, this conversation will reveal how they use **generative AI, motion capture, 360° cinematography, projection mapping, and volumetric capture** to tell stories that cross lines of culture, ability, and lived experience. ​From Emmy-winning VR documentaries screened at **Tribeca and Cannes** to experimental AI films created with OpenAI's SORA, Ternasky-Holland and Santiago work where technology stops being a tool and starts becoming a language. ​They'll discuss their solo projects, their collaborations, and the question at the heart of their practice: **Does technology inspire art, or does art give technology meaning?** ​Whether you're a creator, technologist, or just curious about where storytelling is headed, this is a rare chance to hear from two artists **shaping the future of how we connect.** ​​Reserve your spot and **arrive early**. Space is limited.

Mysteries of Seedance

Seedance has taken the world by storm! We will take a deep dive into Seedance - How it's being used, how we've been working with it, what the new technology can do, techniques to get the best output, some cool examples of the work that's being done with it, and how the industry is adapting to the new possibilites.

Film - Backrooms

Join us as we watch a horror / science fiction movie called "Backrooms" at the AMC Empire 25 in Times Square. The movie showtime is for **7:45 pm**. I have already purchased my ticket and I'm seated in **M8**. [https://www.fandango.com/amc-empire-25-aaore/theater-page?format=all&date=2026-05-30](https://www.fandango.com/amc-empire-25-aaore/theater-page?format=all&date=2026-05-30) After seeing the film, we can grab a bite to eat or a drink nearby. If you need to get in contact, my # is 917-769-2168.

Promised Sky

Join us at the Film Forum for a new movie screening by director Erige Sehiri. We Will be meeting at 5pm and heading to the Film Forum for this new screening. In Tunisia, a community of Ivorians led by Marie, the charismatic pastor of the Church of Perseverance and a former journalist, support and protect each other in the face of increasing state racism against sub-Saharan Africans—“they’re eating cats” is the rumor that spreads—including police raids and mass arrests. Naney is a feisty single mother who hustles to survive and to someday reunite with her daughter; Jolie is a privileged, aloof college student, presumably protected by her documented status; and four- year-old nonspeaking Kenza has just washed up on their shores, literally, having survived a shipwreck with no knowledge of her family or fellow refugees.  Each has her dreams and heartbreaks to contend with; and while Marie, the eldest and wisest, sees that individualism will get them nowhere, Naney, Jolie, and Kenza must ultimately each find their own way. A chillingly resonant story for our times.

134th FN stays in France with J.Gavin: Le Pacha, and bonus.

WAITING ROOM HAS BEEN ENABLED. HOST WILL IDENTIFY YOU AND LET YOU IN. Event at 12:00 p.m. NY time as usual. [https://meet.google.com/vxd-niqc-gxx](https://meet.google.com/vxd-niqc-gxx) La Pacha, 1968 https://m.ok.ru/video/1937894345396?st._aid=VideoState_open_album *Le Pacha* is considered a classic French *polar* (crime thriller) that heavily features film noir elements, such as a cynical veteran inspector, a ruthless criminal underworld, and moody atmosphere. It is highly regarded as a cornerstone of French crime cinema. Ca va barder, 1955 https://m.ok.ru/video/7464211974725

Film Photography Fundamentals: May 28- Jun 4, Thur 5:30 PM-8:00 PM. Outdoors

[Film Photography Fundamentals (2 sessions): May 28-Jun 04, Thursdays 5:30 PM-8:00 PM. In-person/Outdoors.](https://www.photomanhattan.com/product-p/ap1-co-0002.htm "Film Photography Fundamentals (2 sessions): May 28-Jun 04, Thursdays 5:30 PM-8:00 PM. In-person/Outdoors., AP1-CO-0002") $315 https://www.photomanhattan.com/product-p/ap1-co-0002.htm https://www.photomanhattan.com/photography-classes-ny-s/1874.htm \* Meetup RSVPs don't reflect the number of attendees as most Registrations come from our site: https://www.photomanhattan.com **This workshop is fully Outdoors.** Except, in specific instances such as rain / drizzle, it will be partially indoors or rescheduled. **Meeting location will be in Union Square Park or the Highline (at 14th street).** **📸 FILM PHOTOGRAPHY FUNDAMENTALS**: Shooting, Processing & Printing Rediscover the unique magic of analog photography. This comprehensive course covers the entire film workflow: understanding different film stocks, proper loading and shooting techniques, developing black and white film, and making high-quality prints in the darkroom. The perfect start to your analog journey. This comprehensive course covers the entire film workflow. Rediscover the unique magic of analog photography by mastering the process from click to print, providing the perfect start to your analog journey. **What You Will Master**: \* **Camera Handling**: Learn everything you need to know about different film stocks, proper camera loading, and managing film grain. \* **Shooting Technique**: Mastering essential film-based camera settings and hands-on shooting techniques specific to analog photography. \* **Special effects**: The basics of film hacks and special effects, including how to utilize things like **light leaks**, **double exposure**s, and film manipulation techniques. \* **Post-Process Workflow**: The fundamentals of how and where to send film to be processed and printed, including an introduction to the **darkroom** process. **Requirements & Notes**: \* **Requirements**: Any film camera (including Fujifilm Instax or similar).

Free Hands on Production Training

Join us every Wednesdays as we live teach how to operate a live event. There are different departments you can learn from Camera Operator (3 Different camera types) Live sound Lighting Switcher Operator All training is free and open for all levels of experience

FREE Film Screening: "Pressure"

Retro Photo Mixer Event in New York

Kick off the Summer 2026 season at FD Photo Studio! 3 bright photo studios to shoot retro-inspired looks. Join us on **Saturday, May 23rd, from 3 - 6 PM** for a retro-themed photo mixer at **FD Photo Studios Astoria**! **Three beautifully decorated studios** will be open for photo and video shoots during the event. Whether you’re a photographer, model, videographer, content creator, or simply looking to celebrate the start of summer, this is a great opportunity to create fresh seasonal content, expand your portfolio, connect with other creatives, and try our photo studios—all **at a fraction of the regular studio rental cost.** ### 🎟 Tickets Photographers: $20 Models: $15 **Limited discounted bundles available:** Creative Duo Bundle – 30% off Creative Trio Bundle – 40% off *BONUS - Buy a Ticket to our special upcoming* ***Burlesque Group Shoot*** *and get* **FREE ENTRY** *to this Mixer!* **!Message us to purchase a Ticket!** Perfect for model + photographer pairs or small creative teams attending together. ### 📸 Studios Open During the Event: Colorful Walls - Photo studio with hardwood floors, vibrant, colorful walls and a big north-facing window Pink Loft with Flowers - Photo studio with hardwood floors, big North-facing window, piano, and a pink photo booth. NY Apartment with Prop Kitchen - Photo studio with prop kitchen, cozy lounge area with a leather couch, and beautiful natural light. ### 🌼 Theme Inspiration - Retro Summer • Classic pin-up - polka dots, red lips, victory rolls • Rockabilly - denim, plaid, bandanas • Retro housewife - curlers, kitchen props • Vinyl & vixens - records, dancing • All-American vintage - high-waisted shorts, soft curls • Camera girl - vintage cameras, candid pin-up poses ### ✨ Who Can Attend Open to all creatives: photographers, videographers, models, actors, HMUAs, dancers, brands, stylists, designers, producers, and more. If you’ve been meaning to book studio time or need fresh content, this is the perfect opportunity. ### 🤍 How It Works This is a collaborative group mixer. Please share the space respectfully and work together creatively. **Models and photographers are not provided or guaranteed.** You may bring your own team or collaborate with other creatives at the event. FD Photo Studio provides the studio space and available lighting equipment only. By default, attendees may photograph and be photographed unless they choose to opt out. Please always respect personal boundaries. Any model releases or agreements are handled directly between participants. FD Photo Studio does not manage or mediate individual arrangements. Please note: everyone entering the studio must have a valid ticket. *Bring your vision to life and connect with the creative community!*

Your First Pro Photos: May 30- Jun 13, Sat. 3:30 - 6:00 PM. In-person: Outdoors

Learn the basics using ANY cameras! Join us for: [Your First Pro Photos: Smart Shooting & Camera Tricks (3 sessions): May 30-Jun 13, Saturdays 3:30 PM-6:00 PM. In-person: Outdoors](https://www.photomanhattan.com/product-p/co-dp1.i-00.1.htm "Your First Pro Photos: Smart Shooting & Camera Tricks (3 sessions): May 30-Jun 13, Saturdays 3:30 PM-6:00 PM. In-person: Outdoors, CO-DP1.I-00.1") $ 375.- https://www.photomanhattan.com/product-p/co-dp1.i-00.1.htm **[View more at PhotoManhattan.com.](https://www.photomanhattan.com/photography-classes-nyc-s/1814.htm)** Meetup RSVPs don't reflect the number of attendees as most Registrations come from our site: https://www.photomanhattan.com Courses are limited to 8-15 people depending on the course. **This course is a hybrid of Indoor and Outdoor classes.** Some sessions will be partially indoors and others fully outdoors, in Union Square or Chelsea. Exact location will be determined based on the class size and will be emailed to you prior to the class. **Course information:** Welcome to the perfect starting point! This foundational course is designed for anyone, regardless of your camera type (phone, mirrorless, point-and-shoot, or DSLR) and whether or not you use Manual Mode. You will learn a wealth of powerful **photography fundamentals** and **practical tricks** using the equipment you already have. Get a grasp of the basics and gain basic control over your images without complexity. Never miss that shot again! ## What You Will Master: * **Immediate Image Enhancement:** Learn tricks to improve sharpness, achieve perfect focus, and gain control over exposure without leaving Auto Mode. * **Creative Effects:** Techniques for creating stunning **motion blur** shots, freezing action, and understanding when and how to apply these effects. * **Essential Camera Control:** Comprehensive guidance on using the on-camera flash, taking quality photos at night, and maximizing various camera presets. * **Smart Settings:** Practical application of settings like **Exposure Compensation** to turn a regular image into a special one. * **Buying Guide:** A thorough introduction to digital photography topics you need before planning your next purchase, including megapixels, lenses, noise, white balance, ISO, and SD cards. Requirements: ANY digital camera, DSLR, Mirrorless, Point and Shoot or Phone cameras. By ANY we mean any kind, type or model. For the first class, please try to bring your manual for reference. \*\* Students who completed “Digital Photography I”, don't need to take this course. Notes on film cameras: Please note that while most content of this course is applicable to digital cameras, you are welcome to attend as long as your film camera has an automatic shooting mode. Should the assigned instructor become suddenly unavailable, we’ll allocate a substitute. ## Course Experience: Weather permitting, we'll head outdoors around Union Square or the Highline for real-life shooting practice of your newly learned skills. Class structures are designed to cater to all learning types, featuring a mixture of Verbal Instruction, Hands-on Exercises, and Photo Critiquing Homework. Additionally, you'll develop your own photo project and have the option to showcase your work in one of our monthly photo exhibits! | Requirements & Notes | | -------------------- | | **Requirements:** Any camera (Phone, Mirrorless, Point and Shoot, or DSLR). You may choose to attend without a camera. Please bring your camera manual for reference during the first class. | | **Film Cameras:** While most content is applicable to digital, film camera users are welcome as long as your camera has an automatic shooting mode. | | **Course Structure:** Available as a Full 2-5 week course (full content) or a Single-day seminar (brief intro). | | **Highly Recommended Pairing:** This course covers all the basics and pairs well with Composition and Travel Photography | View more dates and classes at: https://www.photomanhattan.com/photography-classes-nyc-s/1814.htm

Portrait Foundations: Jun 03-Jun 24, Wed. 6:00 PM-7:45 PM. In-person: Outdoors

[Portrait Foundations: Mastering the Decisive Moment & Environmental Frame (4 sessions): Jun 03-Jun 24, Wednesdays 6:00 PM-7:45 PM. In-person: Outdoors](https://www.photomanhattan.com/product-p/co-po1.i-04.1.htm "Portrait Foundations: Mastering the Decisive Moment & Environmental Frame (4 sessions): Jun 03-Jun 24, Wednesdays 6:00 PM-7:45 PM. In-person: Outdoors, CO-PO1.I-04.1") https://www.photomanhattan.com/product-p/co-po1.i-04.1.htm \* Meetup RSVPs don't reflect the number of attendees as most Registrations come from our site: https://www.photomanhattan.com Courses are limited to 8-15 people depending on the course. **This workshop is fully Outdoors.** Except, in specific instances such as rain / drizzle, it will be partially indoors or rescheduled. Meeting location will be in Union Square Park or the Highline (at 14th street). # PORTRAIT FOUNDATIONS: Mastering the Decisive Moment & Environmental Frame Go beyond snapshots by mastering \*\*The Decisive Moment\*\* and focusing techniques to capture action, emotion, and character in crowded settings. Learn to \*\*observe and frame\*\* your subject within chaotic environments, using backgrounds and angles to enhance the visual story. Master quick, practical shooting methods for candid and environmental portraits anywhere. ## Full Course Description: Welcome to Portraiture! This foundational workshop is your full guide to capturing **complex, dynamic environmental portraits** in challenging, real-world settings. You will master the art of observation, timing, and framing to create images that cut through the chaos and enhance your subject. ## What You Will Master: * **Mastering The Decisive Moment:** Techniques for identifying and capturing the exact instant—the \*\*decisive moment\*\*—that depicts action, emotion, and character in crowded or complex environments. * **Environmental Framing:** Learning to \*\*observe and work around the background\*\* to strategically enhance your subject and the overall image narrative. * **Composition in Chaos:** Discerning what is important in busy, chaotic spaces and being able to \*\*snap the right shot of your subject\*\* while maintaining strong composition. * **Focusing and Timing:** Mastering focus techniques to ensure your subject is sharp and clear while capturing spontaneous \*\*gestures\*\* and movements. * **Simple Light Sources:** How to work with \*\*simple available lighting\*\*, including natural light, window light, and simple homemade lighting tricks that efficiently enhance the look of your subjects. ## Requirements & Notes: **Requirements:** Any digital camera including \*\*phone cameras\*\* and mirrorless with Automatic OR Manual mode. **Course Structure Suggestion:** This course covers all of the basics and we therefore highly recommend that it is taken before any other Portrait course. **Note:** Though not required, we highly recommend knowing the basics of your camera. This course \*\*will not cover camera settings\*\* and the basics of shooting. View more dates and classes at: https://www.photomanhattan.com/photography-classes-nyc-s/1814.htm