FILMSTERS Academy was founded by nationally recognized award-winning filmmakers Patti White and Lee Anderson in 2002, because they wanted to offer kids a chance to learn the art of filmmaking from a young age.

FILMSTERS Academy, now heading into its seventh year, really offers young people the chance to get "hands on" experience making short films. We have an 85% return rate of students, many of whom have attended for 4 or 5 years. Some of these students are now in film programs at some of the top film schools in America.

There are three levels of instruction, including; Beginners, Intermediates and the Advanced program. At each level of instruction, they pitch, write, direct, shoot and edit these films. Camp takes place each summer during the first two weeks of August on the campus of Key School in Annapolis, MD.

We have an outstanding and eclectic staff with varied educational backgrounds and experience in the world of film. In addition, Intermediate and Advanced students get to experience working with guest industry professionals on site. Last year, students created 10 short films for the film festival, which was attended by over 400 people.

In 2007, the FILMSTERS Foundation was formed to provide opportunities for kids and pros to work together to create films. By late 2008, the newly formed FILMSTERS Foundation will now be able to provide partial and full scholarships for economically challenged youth who show creative ability and lack the resources to attend FILMSTERS Academy.

The secondary purpose of the foundation is to create internships and learning opportunities for kids while creating educational media tools for use in outreach on film projects that have educational or social relevance.