Lights, Camera… Camp! Getting Ready for an Exciting Summer at HMSS

At Heights Middle School Shorts (HMSS), we’re gearing up for our biggest summer yet—and we couldn’t be more excited! For the first time, we’re expanding to offer two separate film camps, giving even more students the chance to explore filmmaking, storytelling, and creativity in a hands-on, supportive environment.

What’s New This Year?

We’ve seen firsthand the impact of the HMSS camp experience for young creators, and this year, we’re thrilled to double our reach with two distinct programs:

🎬 HMSS Core Camp, HMSS I – It’s the classic HMSS experience, where students dive into the entire filmmaking process, from story development and filming to editing and screening their own short films. No prior experience is required—just creativity and a willingness to explore!

🎞️ HMSS Advanced Camp, HMSS II – This brand-new program is designed for returning campers and students with prior filmmaking experience. Campers in HMSS II, campers, under the guidance of an Emmy-winning documentarian, will focus on more advanced storytelling, cinematography, and post-production techniques as they produce a short documentary on the Executive Director of the Greater Cleveland Urban Film Foundation, Donna Dabbs.

Preparing for an Unforgettable Summer

Right now, we’re busy finalizing the curriculum, scouting film locations, and lining up an incredible team of instructors and guest filmmakers to inspire and guide our students. From camera techniques to editing tricks, we want to make sure this year’s camps are more engaging, hands-on, and fun than ever.

And of course, we can’t wait for the biggest moment of all—our end-of-camp film screening, where students will see their work on the big screen and celebrate their creativity with friends, family, and our community.

Calling All Interested Filmmakers!

There’s still room for campers in both camps – but they’re filling fast! – so if you want to make a movie this summer, it’s time to raise your hand! Applications are open through the end of March, so don’t delay!

📽️ Follow us on Instagram and Facebook for updates, behind-the-scenes prep, and all things HMSS. We can’t wait to see what you create this summer!