Active Citizenship Through Videography

In the vibrant city of Brno, Czechia, youth workers from Portugal, Hungary, Czech Republic, Slovakia, and Romania convened for an immersive training course, "Active Citizenship Through Videography." This program, part of the "Citizenship in Action" project, was designed to enhance participants' videography skills, empowering them to use this dynamic medium to promote active citizenship. The training focused on every aspect of videography, from planning and production to post-production, with a special emphasis on non-formal group challenges set against the backdrop of Brno.

The training was packed with a variety of exercises aimed at blending videography with active citizenship. Participants explored Brno through their camera lenses, documenting the city's essence and engaging with its residents. One of the main activities involved interviewing locals to capture their opinions on various citizenship topics. These interviews were crafted into compelling documentaries, giving a voice to the community and highlighting important societal issues.

Participants also created documentaries about Brno itself, exploring its daily life, main characteristics, and infrastructure. These tasks provided a deeper understanding of the city and its people, while honing participants' storytelling skills.

Technical videography skills were a key focus of the training. Sessions included "know your camera" briefings, covering basic concepts such as composition rules, lighting, and effective storytelling techniques. Participants learned about all phases of movie-making, including planning, recording, and post-processing/editing. One particularly challenging exercise was the "one shoot wonder," where participants had to record a scene without any cuts, testing their precision and creativity.

The hands-on nature of the training allowed participants to directly apply their new skills. They practiced guerrilla filmmaking, digital storytelling, chain-of-shot sequences, and character improvisation exercises. These activities not only improved technical skills but also encouraged participants to think creatively and engage deeply with their subjects.

Participants expressed great satisfaction with the training, noting significant improvements in their videography skills and a greater understanding of how to use these skills to promote active citizenship. The practical exercises and community engagement were particularly appreciated, providing valuable real-world experience.

Stay tunned with the upcoming activities from the "Citizenship and Action" and learn how to use creative methods to promote Active Citizenship. Don’t miss out on the chance to develop new skills and make a positive impact in your community!