First Capital Film Crew Institute: Training Oklahomans for Their Next Act
Housed at the school’s South Campus in Guthrie, Meridian Technology Center’s First Capital Film Crew Institute provides affordable, practical and transferable training to support the state’s growing film industry.
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Start with Classes. End with Credits.
No matter where you are along your career path in the film industry, the First Capital Film Crew Institute provides training to help you achieve your goals. Classes are short, specialized and cost-effective. Participants will be set-ready upon the completion of each course.
With more than 20 course offerings this fall, we’ve created categories to help organize our offerings. When you click on a course you’ll get the full course description, course dates and times, information on the instructor and an enrollment link. If you have any questions about a course, please contact Cara Adney at 405.377.3333 or caraa@meridiantech.edu.
Classes in the First Capital Film Crew Institute take place at Meridian’s South Campus in Guthrie unless noted otherwise. Meridian’s South Campus is located at 3025 S. Division St., Guthrie, OK 73044.
FOUNDATIONS OF FILM
Courses in this area serve as essential steppingstones for individuals embarking on a career in the film, television, or commercial industries. Classes are designed to equip students with the foundation knowledge, terminology, and skills necessary to pursue additional training or a career in a specialized area.
Having a well-crafted film industry profile is one of the most important steps you can take to increase your visibility and credibility and land a job. In this hands-on course, you’ll learn where you should be listed and why, discover tips for optimizing your profile for maximum impact, and identify pitfalls to avoid. Additional content includes how to connect with local industry-specific groups, tips for building your personal brand, using social media to promote your film projects, and strategies for keeping your profiles current. Whether you are new to Oklahoma’s film industry or already have a few credits, this class can help achieve maximum impact through an online profile.
10/16 & 10/17 | MT | 6 - 9 PM | $39
This course will take place at our Main Campus in Stillwater located at 1312 S. Sangre Rd., Stillwater, OK 74074.
Learn more about instructor Adam Ropp.
Having a well-crafted film industry profile is one of the most important steps you can take to increase your visibility and credibility and land a job. In this hands-on course, you’ll learn where you should be listed and why, discover tips for optimizing your profile for maximum impact, and identify pitfalls to avoid. Additional content includes how to connect with local industry-specific groups, tips for building your personal brand, using social media to promote your film projects, and strategies for keeping your profiles current. Whether you are new to Oklahoma’s film industry or already have a few credits, this class can help achieve maximum impact through an online profile.
This course will take place at our South Campus in Guthrie located at 3025 S. Division St., Guthrie, OK 73044.
10/24 & 10/26 | TTh | 6 - 9 PM | $39 * This course date has been changed from what was published in the course catalog.
Learn more about instructor Jordan Wilson.
Working in a film camera department is technical work that is both physically and mentally challenging. It also requires contractors who are skilled and experienced. This introductory course provides an overview of the camera department, roles of the camera crew, career pathways in the field, and skills you can practice getting started in this growing industry.
Students will also be introduced to the fundamental principles of cinematography, including composition, highlighting, framing, and camera movement. Students will become familiar with several types of cameras, lenses, and other essential equipment used in film and TV production. Additional content will focus on the hierarchy and responsibilities in the camera department, establishing a collaborative workflow between the camera department and other departments, as well as professional etiquette, on-set protocol expected in the camera department., safety, equipment handling, and the importance of clear communication.
Students will have the opportunity to work with industry-standard equipment, and practice different camera techniques. This course will also provide an overview of career pathways within the camera department. Students will learn about industry trends, job prospects, and the skills required to pursue a career in cinematography. No film experience is needed for this course, but camera and video experience are a plus.
This course will take place at our South Campus in Guthrie located at 3025 S. Division St., Guthrie, OK 73044.
11/7 | T | 6 - 9 PM | $49
Learn more about instructor Andrew Appleyard.
Explore the art and craft of developing a screenplay for film and TV. This introductory course covers key essential elements for any story from the creative, technical, and logistical aspects. Time will be spent discussing story structure and plot outline, character descriptions and dialogue, and screenplay formats and styles. Additional elements will include the psychology of writing, script formatting, the importance of developing habits, and marketing your work. Outside of class, students will be assigned to write a five-to-10-page short film that will be workshopped in the course. No screenwriting or film industry experience is required.
This course will take place at our South Campus in Guthrie located at 3025 S. Division St., Guthrie, OK 73044.
11/13, 11/15 & 11/17 | MWF | 6 - 9 PM | $119
Learn more about instructor Ben Richardson.
Working in a film camera department is technical work that is both physically and mentally challenging. It also requires contractors who are skilled and experienced. This introductory course provides an overview of the camera department, roles of the camera crew, career pathways in the field, and skills you can practice getting started in this growing industry.
Students will also be introduced to the fundamental principles of cinematography, including composition, highlighting, framing, and camera movement. Students will become familiar with several types of cameras, lenses, and other essential equipment used in film and TV production. Additional content will focus on the hierarchy and responsibilities in the camera department, establishing a collaborative workflow between the camera department and other departments, as well as professional etiquette, on-set protocol expected in the camera department., safety, equipment handling, and the importance of clear communication.
Students will have the opportunity to work with industry-standard equipment, and practice different camera techniques. This course will also provide an overview of career pathways within the camera department. Students will learn about industry trends, job prospects, and the skills required to pursue a career in cinematography. No film experience is needed for this course, but camera and video experience are a plus.
This course will take place at our South Campus in Guthrie located at 3025 S. Division St., Guthrie, OK 73044.
11/7 | T | 6 - 9 PM | $49
Learn more about instructor Andrew Appleyard.
CAREER GROWTH
Training and skills development is essential for individuals seeking to grow a successful career in the film industry. These courses are designed to help aspiring filmmakers develop the necessary skills to pursue careers as assistant directors, screenwriters, cinematographers, and other roles within the filmmaking world.
Short films are typically less than 40 minutes in length, but that doesn't mean they take less time to make. This introductory course focuses on what it takes to go from an idea to a finished short film. Attention will be paid to the development, pre-production, production, post-production, and distribution of a film project. No previous film experience is needed for this course.
This course will take place at our South Campus in Guthrie located at 3025 S. Division St., Guthrie, OK 73044.
9/11-9/15 | M-F | 6-9 PM | $159
Learn more about instructor Ben Richardson.
This course aims to equip aspiring producers with the skills and insights necessary to navigate the complex world of film production. Throughout this course, students will explore the entire movie production process, from conceptualization to distribution. Focus will be on the producer’s role as the driving force behind a project, responsible for overseeing all aspects of production and ensuring the realization of the creative vision. This course covers a wide range of topics including script development, financing and budgeting, casting and talent acquisition, pre-production planning, production management, post-production processes, marketing and distribution strategies, and legal and ethical considerations in the film industry.
This course will take place at our South Campus in Guthrie located at 3025 S. Division St., Guthrie, OK 73044.
11/13-11/17 | M-F | 6-9 PM| $300
Learn more about instructor Adam Ropp.
Whether you are a seasoned filmmaker or shooting your first film, film festivals are crucial to the film industry. This two-night course covers factors filmmakers should consider before submitting to a film festival. This will include researching film festivals and selecting which ones are the best fit for your project, when you should be ready to submit, how to make the most out of the networking and film promotion opportunities, and what to do after the festival ends. Participants will become familiar with FilmFreeway, the world’s top film festival submission platform, and create an account if they do not already have one.
This course will take place at our South Campus in Guthrie located at 3025 S. Division St., Guthrie, OK 73044.
11/14 & 11/16 | TTh | 6-9 PM| $49
Learn more about instructor Ben Richardson.
First and Second Assistant Directors manage the logistics of a film production which includes the scheduling, operations, safety, and paperwork. In addition to understanding the hierarchy and collaboration within the film crew, this course includes practical assignments, discussions, and feedback sessions to ensure participants gain hands-on experience and are prepared for the demands of assistant directing in the film industry.
Students will learn how to analyze and break down a script, create a production schedule, learn how to create and manage a shooting schedule, generate call sheets, create sides, fill out Exhibit Gs, and create reports. This course also covers managing a set to ensure a smooth production flow, coordinating between departments, and assisting with logistics, safety measures, and talent management.
No previous film experience is required for this course. Students must complete the Introduction to the Film Industry course or similar programming before registering.
This course will take place at our South Campus in Guthrie located at 3025 S. Division St., Guthrie, OK 73044.
12/11-12/20 | M-F | 9 AM - 5 PM | $300
Learn more about instructor Jordan Wilson.
Short films are typically less than 40 minutes in length, but that doesn't mean they take less time to make. This introductory course focuses on what it takes to go from an idea to a finished short film. Attention will be paid to the development, pre-production, production, post-production, and distribution of a film project. No previous film experience is needed for this course.
This course will take place at our South Campus in Guthrie located at 3025 S. Division St., Guthrie, OK 73044.
11/27-12/1 | M-F | 6-9 PM | $159
Learn more about instructor Ben Richardson.
This course aims to equip aspiring producers with the skills and insights necessary to navigate the complex world of film production. Throughout this course, students will explore the entire movie production process, from conceptualization to distribution. Focus will be on the producer’s role as the driving force behind a project, responsible for overseeing all aspects of production and ensuring the realization of the creative vision. This course covers a wide range of topics including script development, financing and budgeting, casting and talent acquisition, pre-production planning, production management, post-production processes, marketing and distribution strategies, and legal and ethical considerations in the film industry.
This course will take place at our South Campus in Guthrie located at 3025 S. Division St., Guthrie, OK 73044.
1/8-1/12 | M-F | 6-9 PM | $300
Learn more about instructor Adam Ropp.
MAKEUP FOR FILM AND TV
Throughout these courses, participants will have the opportunity to practice their skills through hands-on assignments in class, collaborate with fellow makeup artists, and receive feedback from industry professionals.
Learn practical skills in grooming and makeup specifically tailored for male actors in the film industry. With a focus on creating realistic and camera-ready looks, this course will include topics such as understanding grooming and makeup requirements for male actors, essential grooming practices for men in the industry, foundation and corrective techniques, natural and everyday makeup looks for men, and continuity and maintenance on set. Supplies needed for this course are included in the cost of registration.
This course will take place at our South Campus in Guthrie located at 3025 S. Division St., Guthrie, OK 73044.
12/4 | M | 9 AM to 3 PM | $89
Learn more about Toni Marlo and her company Marlohaus.
The color theory and foundation matching course provides an understanding of color theory principles and practical skills required to achieve accurate foundation matching for on-screen productions. Students will learn how to manipulate color effectively, ensure consistency across various media platforms, and how to create a seamless look for film, television, and commercials. Areas of focus include the psychological impact of color, color harmony and contrast, color management for film and TV, foundation matching techniques and industry best practices that focus on understanding the collaboration between cinematographers, makeup artists, and hair stylists. Supplies needed for this course are included in the cost of registration.
12/11 | M | 9 AM to 3 PM | $89
This course will take place at our South Campus in Guthrie located at 3025 S. Division St., Guthrie, OK 73044.
Learn more about Toni Marlo and her company Marlohaus.
In the world of film, television, and commercials, creating a natural “no-makeup” look is a valuable skill that enhances an actor’s appearance without drawing attention to heavy makeup application. This course is designed to provide aspiring makeup artists with the knowledge, skills, and techniques necessary to achieve a flawless, natural-looking complexion suitable for on-screen performances. The course will cover skin preparation, perfecting the complexion, enhancing facial features, blushing and bronzing techniques, and creating natural lips. The focus will also be on how to customize the look for different ethnicities. Supplies needed for this course are included in the cost of registration.
This course will take place at our South Campus in Guthrie located at 3025 S. Division St., Guthrie, OK 73044.
12/18 | M | 9 AM to 3 PM | $89
Learn more about Toni Marlo and her company Marlohaus.
Discover the art of concealing tattoos for film and TV productions with a specialized course that provides insights and practical knowledge for makeup artists, actors, and anyone involved in the entertainment industry. This hands-on course will cover makeup techniques for tattoo concealment, the application of temporary tattoos, and maintaining tattoo continuity. Whether you are an aspiring makeup artist or an actor looking to portray diverse characters, this course will equip you with the essential skills for tattoo cover-up in the entertainment industry. Supplies needed for this course are included in the cost of registration.
1/8 | M | 9 AM to 3 PM | $129
This course will take place at our South Campus in Guthrie located at 3025 S. Division St., Guthrie, OK 73044.
Learn more about Toni Marlo and her company Marlohaus.
This introductory course provides students with the fundamental skills and knowledge required to create realistic and convincing effects such as cuts, bruises, burns, and blood in the context of film and television productions. This hands-on course will cover essential techniques, materials, and tools used in special effects makeup. Supplies needed for this course are included in the cost of registration.
This course will take place at our South Campus in Guthrie located at 3025 S. Division St., Guthrie, OK 73044.
1/15 | M | 9 AM to 3 PM | $129
Learn more about Toni Marlo and her company Marlohaus.
PERSONAL INTEREST
Discover the magic of filmmaking through personal interest classes in the film industry. Whether you’re an aspiring actor or filmmaker, these courses offer a unique opportunity to explore your artistic potential and bring your cinematic visions to life. Lights, camera, action – your adventure in the film industry awaits!
Learn how to stand out as a movie extra by learning to blend in. This three-hour course provides an overview of what to expect as an extra on television, film, or commercials. From learning set etiquette to understanding how extras contribute to film productions and where to find jobs across Oklahoma, this class is ideal for anyone interested in breaking into the industry. No film experience is necessary for this course.
This course will take place at our Main Campus in Stillwater located at 1312 S. Sangre Rd., Stillwater, OK 74074.
9/6| W | 6 - 9 PM | $25
Learn more about instructor Kyle Eastham.
Learn how to stand out as a movie extra by learning to blend in. This three-hour course provides an overview of what to expect as an extra on television, film, or commercials. From learning set etiquette to understanding how extras contribute to film productions and where to find jobs across Oklahoma, this class is ideal for anyone interested in breaking into the industry. No film experience is necessary for this course.
This course will take place at our South Campus in Guthrie located at 3025 S. Division St., Guthrie, OK 73044.
10/3 | T | 6 - 9 PM | $25
Learn more about instructor Lorrie Chilcoat.
Ditch the bulky camera and focus on your phone. You have everything you need to shoot your first short film in your pocket. This course will briefly discuss the areas of film production, resources needed, and apps to explore. Time in class will focus on transforming footage from your smartphone to something that is ready to be seen on screens big and small.
A smartphone is required for this course. Participants will also need to provide video footage they want to use to create a short film. This could range from vacation footage you would like to post as a video on social media or a short film that you would like to produce for distribution.
This course will take place at our Main Campus in Stillwater located at 1312 S. Sangre Rd., Stillwater, OK 74074.
10/10 - 10/17 | TTh | 6-9 PM | $49
*Please note, due to a change in the instructor's schedule this course date is different than what was published in the Course Catalog.
Learn more about instructor Jordan Benson.
Learn how to stand out as a movie extra by learning to blend in. This three-hour course provides an overview of what to expect as an extra on television, film, or commercials. From learning set etiquette to understanding how extras contribute to film productions and where to find jobs across Oklahoma, this class is ideal for anyone interested in breaking into the industry. No film experience is necessary for this course.
This course will take place at our South Campus in Guthrie located at 3025 S. Division St., Guthrie, OK 73044.
11/9 | T | 6 - 9 PM | $25
Learn more about instructor Lorrie Chilcoat.
Learn how to stand out as a movie extra by learning to blend in. This three-hour course provides an overview of what to expect as an extra on television, film, or commercials. From learning set etiquette to understanding how extras contribute to film productions and where to find jobs across Oklahoma, this class is ideal for anyone interested in breaking into the industry. No film experience is necessary for this course.
11/28| T | 6 - 9 PM | $25
This course will take place at our Main Campus in Stillwater located at 1312 S. Sangre Rd., Stillwater, OK 74074.
Learn more about instructor Kyle Eastham.
Coming Attractions
We’ve partnered with some of the state’s top talent to train the next generation of film crew workers. New courses slated for 2024 include:
- Catering to the Film Industry
- Hairstylist
- Introduction to Becoming An Intimacy Coordinator
- Locations
- So, You Want to Be an Extra (Indigenous People Edition)
- So, You Want to Be an Extra (Kids in Film Edition)
- What to Expect When a Film Comes to Town: How Small Businesses Can Turn Big Profits
Sign Up for Emails on Upcoming Classes
First Capital Film Crew Institute: Location Matters
Conveniently located less than an hour from three of the state’s certified sound stages, Meridian’s district includes more than 900 square miles that cover parts of Lincoln, Logan, Noble, Pawnee and Payne counties. This landscape includes Guthrie’s iconic downtown; Stillwater, America’s friendliest college town; the Iowa Tribe of Oklahoma, the Pawnee Nation and the Otoe-Missouria Tribe of Indians; miles of red dirt road and sunsets that will take your breath away.
Independent filmmakers and Hollywood studios have found what they’re looking for in the Meridian district. The only thing missing is a workforce to support their creative endeavors.
Until now.
