WORKSHOPS


FIX IT IN PRE-PRODUCTION A Virtual Conversation

SAFETY ALWAYS

  • SIGN UP HERE
  • DATE/TIME: Monday 3/31/25 7-8pm
  • LOCATION: Zoom
  • COST: Free

Having ample time for pre-production is crucial to ensuring your production runs as smoothly and safely as possible. Unfortunately, prep days are often the first to be cut when budgets are trimmed.

Join us for SAFETY ALWAYS: Fix It In Pre-Production, a virtual event dedicated to prioritizing safety at every stage of production—before you even step on set. Learn from industry experts how to identify and mitigate potential safety hazards before they become major issues. We’ll cover essential safety protocols and key considerations during pre-production that help create a secure environment for cast, crew, and the public.

This event is for ALL crew members—from PAs to Producers! Whether you’re curious about the decisions made long before filming begins or passionate about writing and producing short films and features, this session will provide valuable insights to keep in mind.

This event is FREE—

SIGN UP TODAY!

2 Day Costumes Department Workshop

Costumes Department

  • SIGN UP HERE
  • WORKSHOP DATE:
  • Sat 4/26/25 – Sun 4/27/25
  • Location: Chisholm, MN.
  • COST: $50
  • Scholarships Available
  • SPACE IS LIMITED

IN THIS WORKSHOP:

This immersive workshop provides a comprehensive introduction to the world of film costuming and wardrobe management. Participants will explore key areas such as:

Roles and Responsibilities – Understanding the costume department’s structure, including costume designers, supervisors, set costumers, and wardrobe assistants.

Script & Character Analysis – Learning to break down scripts, create costume plots, and develop a cohesive visual style for characters.

Fabric & Costume Selection – Sourcing, budgeting, and selecting materials for authenticity and practicality.

Costume Fittings & Alterations – Measuring actors, conducting fittings, and performing basic alterations, distressing, and aging techniques.

Wardrobe Organization & Continuity – Managing on-set wardrobe, tracking continuity, and handling quick changes.

On-Set Protocols & Emergency Fixes – Preparing for shoot days, handling last-minute alterations, and problem-solving under pressure.

Collaboration Across Departments – Working effectively with production designers, directors, and makeup artists to ensure cohesive character development.

Through lectures, case studies, and hands-on exercises, participants will gain practical skills and a deeper understanding of how the costume department shapes a film’s visual storytelling.

SCHEDULE:

Saturday: 9a – 5pm

Sunday: 9a – 5pm

Lunch, beverages and snacks will be provided both days. Please bring a water bottle and traveler coffee mug to help us reduce the amount of waste.

INSTRUCTOR: TBD

COST $50 – please email matt@uppermidwestfilmtv.org for scholarship information.

If you need information on hotels and Airbnbs, please message us and we can point you in the right direction.

This program is a presentation of UMFO in partnership with the Blandin Foundation, St Louis County and the IRRRB

SIGN UP TODAY!


2 Art Department Workshop

Art Department

  • SIGN UP HERE
  • WORKSHOP DATE:
  • Sat 5/17/25 – Sun 5/18/25
  • Location: Chisholm, MN.
  • COST: $50
  • Scholarships Available
  • SPACE IS LIMITED

IN THIS WORKSHOP:

1. Roles and Responsibilities – Understanding the art department’s structure, including production design, set decoration, props, and scenic art.

2. Concept Development – Learning to interpret scripts, create mood boards, and establish a cohesive visual style.

3. Set Design and Construction – Basics of sketching, drafting, and building sets using physical and digital tools.

4. Props and Decoration – Sourcing, creating, and aging props to enhance authenticity.

5. Scenic Art – Techniques like faux finishes, texturing, and mural painting.

6. Graphics for Film – Designing in-world elements such as signs, labels, and posters.

7. Collaboration and Continuity – Ensuring cohesive design and effective teamwork across departments.

Through lectures, case studies, and hands-on activities, participants gain practical skills and a deeper understanding of how the art department contributes to a film’s narrative and atmosphere.

SCHEDULE:

Saturday: 9a – 5pm

Sunday: 9a – 5pm

Lunch, beverages and snacks will be provided both days. Please bring a water bottle and traveler coffee mug to help us reduce the amount of waste.

This program is a presentation of UMFO in partnership with the IRRRB , St Louis County and the Blandin Foundation

SIGN UP TODAY!

PAST WORKSHOPS:

  • 3-Day on Set Production Workshop 6/21, 10/21, 4/22, 10/22, 2/23, 5/23, 9/23, 1/24, 3/24, 1/25
  • Working in the Art Department 6/23
  • 2-Day Set Decorating Workshop 8/23
  • 2 Day Hands-on Grip 11/23
  • 2-Day Hands-on Sound 12/23
  • How to Network in the Arts & Entertainment Industry 9/21, 9/22
  • Festival How To: A virtual panel 8/11
  • Management & Scouting, the Business of Locations 6/21
  • Introduction to PA: Virtual 5/21
  • Set Etiquette: Hair/Makeup & Costume 4/21
  • Introduction to G&E Hibbing 4/21
  • Introduction to Camera: Duluth, 2/21
  • Introduction to Production Sound: Duluth, 2/21
  • Introduction to G&E: Duluth, 2/21
  • Introduction to PA: VIRTUAL, 2/21
  • Crew Introduction & Overview: VIRTUAL 2/21