Film Making New York
Join the thriving film making scene in New York
FiDi And Staten Islnd Ferry Tour.
Sat, Nov 14, 5:30 PMSaturday stroll to FiDi and Staten Island Ferry. Meet at Epicerie Boulud inside the Oculus (uploaded a photo for reference), in front of Path entrance, as there will be some people joining us from NJ. You will have the opportunity to grab breakfast etc. **Note:** * Please go at your own pace. You don't have to follow me. I will be reachable by chat, if you need me to wait for you. The plan is to board the 2.30 pm ferry. * Staten Island Ferry Schedule: https://siferry.com/schedules/ * You may leave the photowalk whenever you please. 1\. From the Oculus\, we walk to Whitehall Street South Ferry to board the Staten Island ferry\. You can shoot all along\, this is not a march\. We will be passing by Trinity place\, Zuccotti park and the Charging Bull **Fun fact (?):** The ferry has been operational since 1905 and is free. 2\. We will offboard at St George Ferry terminal in Staten Island\, for pictures\. **Fun fact (?):** It is one of the few remaining direct rail-to-ferry transit connections left in the entire United States, letting passengers step straight from the train to the boat. Long before carrying only pedestrians, the ferries used to transport horses and later cars (for a $3 fee), but vehicles were permanently banned after the September 11 attacks 3\. Will take the ferry back to Whitehall\. Ferries run every 30 mins on weekends\. 4\. From Whitehall\, we will head out to the core of Wall Street\, a pedestrian zone surrounded by Broadway\, Beaver\, Pine and Williams street\. You will have free reign there\. No specific route to follow\. *The photowalk ends* at the corner of William and Pine street. The subway station is there. **Notable places to eat**: Farida, Manhatta, and Fraunces. Fraunces being the oldest (?) bar in NYC. Farida is a Kazakh restaurant. Manhatta offers great views of the city (and food and cocktails).
Write the Role Only You Can Play: A Self-Made Actor Lab™ Intensive
Tue, Nov 17, 11:30 PM# **ABOUT THIS WORKSHOP** You became an actor to tell stories—not to spend your entire career waiting for someone else to give you permission to tell one. **Self-Made Actor Lab™** is an intimate, hands-on intensive for actors who are ready to stop waiting for the perfect role and begin creating work of their own. Led by award-winning actress and filmmaker **Sakinah Iman**, this workshop will help you identify the experiences, perspectives and natural talents that make you uniquely compelling—and begin transforming them into an original cinematic monologue written specifically for **you**. This isn't about writing a random scene just so you have something to perform. **Your life is creative material.** Your humor. Your heartbreak. Your culture. Your relationships. Your contradictions. Your career. Your weirdness. Your talents. The things you've survived. The things you can't stop talking about. Those are often the very things that give an artist a point of view. Sakinah's own career changed when she stopped waiting for someone to write the perfect role for her and began creating films around her own voice, talents and lived experiences. **Now she'll teach you how to begin doing the same.** *** # **WHAT YOU'LL LEARN** ### **1\. Find the Story Only You Can Tell** Through guided exercises, you'll explore your experiences, perspective, personality and natural talents to uncover material that could become compelling original work. Maybe you're also a dancer, rapper, comedian, athlete, martial artist, musician, parent, chef, poet—or you simply carry a life experience and perspective nobody else can reproduce. You'll learn to ask: **What makes *me* interesting before I ever step into character?** ### **2\. Turn Your Truth Into a Cinematic Monologue** You'll learn how to take raw personal material and begin shaping it into a structured monologue with character, stakes, conflict, specificity and emotional movement. The goal isn't simply to tell your life story. It's to transform truth into **cinematic storytelling.** ### **3\. The Art of Believability** A powerful monologue isn't just about the words. It's about whether we believe you. We'll explore performance choices that can help personal material feel lived rather than recited, including emotional connection, specificity, listening, intention and truthful on-camera behavior. ### **4\. Stop Thinking Only Like an Actor\. Start Thinking Like a Creator\.** What happens when you stop seeing yourself only as the person auditioning for someone else's project? You'll learn how self-created work can become an artistic and career asset—and how actors can begin thinking like the writers, producers and creative executives of their own material rather than waiting exclusively for auditions. ### **5\. Film Festivals: What Happens After You Make the Film?** Creating the work is only part of the journey. You'll learn the fundamentals of positioning and submitting an independent short film to festivals, including festival fit, submissions, materials and how to begin building a strategic festival plan. And just as importantly: **What do you do with the film after you've made it?** We'll discuss ways original work can support your reel, artistic brand, online presence and future opportunities. *** # **WHAT YOU'LL WALK AWAY WITH** By the end of the intensive, you'll leave with: * A clearer understanding of your unique artistic point of view * A personal story or concept selected for development * The foundation/draft of an original cinematic monologue * A framework for developing that monologue into a short film * A beginner-friendly understanding of film festival strategy * A clearer plan for using self-created work to increase your visibility as an actor *** # **LEARN FROM AN ACTOR WHO CHOSE HERSELF** **Sakinah Iman** is an NYC actress, writer, director and producer with nearly two decades of acting and performance experience and more than a decade of independent filmmaking experience. After years of working as an actor, Sakinah began creating original vehicles that showcased her own voice and talents rather than waiting for someone else to create those opportunities for her. Her work has since earned **28 film festival awards, screened at more than 70 film festivals worldwide, and been licensed and distributed on major television and streaming platforms, including Showtime, Paramount+, Hulu, Apple TV and Prime Video.** Her spoken-word short film, *He Wants to Know My Number*, grew directly from her own voice and lived experience—one example of what can happen when an actor stops asking, *“What role will someone give me?”* and starts asking: **“What can I create that only I could make?”** But this workshop isn't about teaching you to copy Sakinah's story. **It's about helping you discover yours.** *** # **WHO THIS IS FOR** This workshop is for the actor who knows they're capable of more than the opportunities they've been given. The actor who's tired of waiting for the “right” role. The actor whose current reel doesn't capture the full depth of what they can do. The multidisciplinary artist who has another gift—music, dance, poetry, comedy, athletics, martial arts, writing or something completely unexpected—and has never considered building original work around it. And the actor who knows they have something to say but hasn't yet figured out how to turn it into a story. **You don't have to wait for someone else to write the role that finally lets people see you.** **You can write it yourself.** *This is intentionally a small-group experience so there is room for discussion, writing and individual exploration. Space is limited.*
Film Photography: Nov 15-Nov 22, Sundays 10:00am. In-person: Outdoors
Sun, Nov 15, 3:00 PM[Film Photography: Shooting workshop (2 sessions): Nov 15-Nov 22, Sundays 10:00 AM.- 12:00 PM. In-person: Outdoors.](https://www.photomanhattan.com/product-p/co-au-1.2-.htm "Film Photography: Shooting workshop (2 sessions): Nov 15-Nov 22, Sundays 10:00 AM.- 12:00 PM. In-person: Outdoors., CO-AU-1.2-") $325 \* Meetup RSVPs don't reflect the number of attendees as most Registrations come from our site: https://www.photomanhattan.com **This workshop is fully Outdoors.** Except, in specific instances such as rain / drizzle, it will be partially indoors or rescheduled. **Meeting location will be in Union Square Park or the Highline (at 14th street).** **📸 FILM PHOTOGRAPHY FUNDAMENTALS**: Shooting, Processing & Printing Rediscover the unique magic of analog photography. This comprehensive course covers the entire film workflow: understanding different film stocks, proper loading and shooting techniques, developing black and white film, and making high-quality prints in the darkroom. The perfect start to your analog journey. This comprehensive course covers the entire film workflow. Rediscover the unique magic of analog photography by mastering the process from click to print, providing the perfect start to your analog journey. **What You Will Master**: \* **Camera Handling**: Learn everything you need to know about different film stocks, proper camera loading, and managing film grain. \* **Shooting Technique**: Mastering essential film-based camera settings and hands-on shooting techniques specific to analog photography. \* **Special effects**: The basics of film hacks and special effects, including how to utilize things like **light leaks**, **double exposure**s, and film manipulation techniques. \* **Post-Process Workflow**: The fundamentals of how and where to send film to be processed and printed, including an introduction to the **darkroom** process. **Requirements & Notes**: \* **Requirements**: Any film camera (including Fujifilm Instax or similar).
Visual, Composition : Nov 7-Nov 28 , Sat. 10:45am. In-person
Sat, Nov 7, 3:45 PM[Visual Composition & Storytelling Classes (4 sessions): Nov 07-Nov 28 , Saturdays 10:45 AM-12:30 PM. In-person: Outdoors](https://www.photomanhattan.com/product-p/co-dp3.i-01.1.htm "Visual Composition & Storytelling Classes (4 sessions): Nov 07-Nov 28 , Saturdays 10:45 AM-12:30 PM. In-person: Outdoors, CO-DP3.i-01.1"). $375 \* Meetup RSVPs don't reflect the number of attendees as most Registrations come from our site: https://www.photomanhattan.com **This workshop is fully Outdoors.** Except, in specific instances such as rain / drizzle, it will be partially indoors or rescheduled. **Meeting location will be in Union Square Park or the Highline (at 14th street).** **👁️ VISUAL COMPOSITION & STORYTELLING:** The Art of Seeing Light and Design This is where your creative photography takes over. Master composition rules (Rule of Thirds, Leading Lines) and learn how to break them to forge your own artistic style. Focus on visual design elements like perspective, color theory, and dynamic framing. **What You Will Master:** \* **Compositional Rules**: Master essential composition techniques, including the **Rule of Thirds**, **Leading Lines**, **Symmetry**, and **Negative Space**. \* **Design Elements**: Focus on visual design elements such as **perspective**, **color theory**, **dynamic framing**, **pattern**, and **texture** to make every image captivating. \* **Creative Vision**: Develop your individual style and learn to identify and execute complex concepts that transform a snapshot into a compelling piece of visual storytelling. \* **Hands-On Practice**: In-class assignments and critiques focused on developing and refining your unique creative vision. This course marks the shift from simply operating a camera to truly creating art. Master the foundational rules of composition and learn when and how to break them to forge your own unique artistic style. Learn to communicate complex ideas and emotions through the frame. **Requirements & Notes:** \* **Requirements**: Any camera (DSLR, Mirrorless, or advanced Point & Shoot). \* **Assumed Knowledge**: Basic familiarity with camera operation.
Visual Composition: Nov 7, Saturday 10:45am. In-person: Outdoor
Sat, Nov 7, 3:45 PMJoin us for [Visual Composition Seminar: (1 session): Nov 07, Saturday 10:45 AM-12:30 PM. In-person: Outdoors](https://www.photomanhattan.com/product-p/se-cfb.i-01.3.htm "Visual Composition Seminar: (1 session): Nov 07, Saturday 10:45 AM-12:30 PM. In-person: Outdoors, SE-CFB.i-01.3"). $ 135 Meetup RSVPs don't reflect the number of attendees as most Registrations come from our site: https://www.photomanhattan.com Courses are limited to 8-15 people depending on the course. **This workshop is fully outdoors..** Meeting location is at Union Square / Chelsea. The exact location will be emailed to you prior to class. **Framing and Composition.** Improve your imagery with this 2-hour seminar! This 2-hour photography class will cover common tricks and tips for shooting street shots, lighting control techniques, focus, background, perspective, and many more quick techniques that will instantly become handy for your next travel, candid, or city shots. Opened to all levels. Requirements: Any cameras, phones, Point and Shoot, Mirrorless, DSLR, or film. Basic knowledge of your camera's function is recommended. (In manual or Automatic Mode). Note, If you are enrolled in our Creative Photography course, you don't need this seminar, as this material will be covered during your course. Outdoors sessions are in Union Square / Chelsea. You can find other available photo classes checkout our site: http://www.photomanhattan.com/photography-classes-nyc-s/1814.htm Only registered attendees will be allowed. Thanks!
✨ Behind the Curtain: The Metropolitan Opera House Backstage Tour
Tue, Nov 10, 8:00 PM# 🎭✨ BEHIND THE CURTAIN: THE METROPOLITAN OPERA HOUSE! ✨🎭 ## 🌟 AN EXCLUSIVE BACKSTAGE EXPERIENCE FOR OUR SOCIAL CLUB ### **Tuesday\, November 10\, 2026 \| 3:00 PM–4:30 PM** ### **Meet at 2:45 PM • Only 20 Places • Just $25 per Member!** **New York City Art, Film, Museum, Social Club** *** ## 🚪 THE CURTAIN RISES ON A DIFFERENT KIND OF EXPERIENCE! The magnificent auditorium. The glittering chandeliers. The extraordinary productions. But what does it take to make the magic happen? Join us as we return to the **world-renowned Metropolitan Opera House at Lincoln Center** for a fascinating guided backstage tour—a chance to discover the working world beyond the audience’s view! Following our June visit, we are giving more of our members the opportunity to explore the **artistry, craftsmanship, engineering and coordination** behind grand opera. **You do not need to be an opera enthusiast to enjoy this experience.** If you appreciate architecture, design, theater, history—or simply love discovering how extraordinary things work—this afternoon is for you! *** ## 🎭 WHAT WE WILL EXPERIENCE Our knowledgeable guides will introduce us to the enormous operation behind the performances, taking us into areas normally hidden from audience members. **Depending on rehearsals, production schedules and access that day, the tour may include:** ### 🔧 THE CRAFTSMANSHIP BEHIND THE CURTAIN Discover the work that transforms ideas into productions: * **Scenic and carpentry shops**, where theatrical worlds take shape. * **Costume and wig departments**, where intricate details help bring characters to life. * **Rehearsal rooms**, where performers and production teams prepare for the stage. ### 🎬 THE STAGE & ITS TECHNICAL MARVELS Explore the scale and mechanics of a major opera house: * The opportunity to **stand on the immense stage itself**. * A view of the **orchestra pit**. * A look at the **elevator and turntable systems** that help move scenery and make complex set changes possible. ### 🏛️ THE MAGNIFICENT AUDITORIUM Take in the beauty of the Met’s approximately **3,800-seat auditorium**, including its: ✨ **Iconic gold-leaf ceiling** ✨ **Famous Austrian crystal chandeliers** ✨ **Sweeping architectural scale and elegant surroundings** *The Opera House is a working performance venue. Specific rooms, departments and stage access are subject to availability; no individual backstage area is guaranteed.* *** ## 🌍 AN EXTRAORDINARY OPERATION The Met’s repertory schedule requires teams to prepare and rotate multiple productions, each with its own scenery, costumes, performers and technical demands. Behind every performance is a remarkable collaboration among artists, craftspeople, musicians and technical specialists. **This tour is our opportunity to appreciate the people and precision behind what audiences see onstage.** *** ## 👥 OUR OWN TWO GROUPS—OUR OWN TWO GUIDES! Our **20 Social Club members** will be divided into **two groups of 10**, each with its own dedicated guide. Although other tours may be taking place in the building, **no outside participants will be added to our two groups**. The division is necessary because of the elevators’ capacity—and gives us the opportunity to experience the tour in smaller groups. *** ## 🗓️ EVENT DETAILS 📅 **Date:** Tuesday, November 10, 2026 🕝 **Required Meeting Time:** **2:45 PM—no later** 🕒 **Reserved Tour Start:** **3:00 PM** ⏳ **Duration:** Approximately **75–90 minutes**, concluding around **4:15–4:30 PM** 📍 **Location:** Metropolitan Opera House, Lincoln Center 🚪 **Meeting Point:** **South end of the Metropolitan Opera House lobby** 👥 **Capacity:** **20 Social Club members**, divided into two groups of 10 **Please meet David at the meeting point so we can check in and organize our two groups. The tour begins and ends in the lobby.** *** ## 💲 A WONDERFUL EXPERIENCE—AT OUR SPECIAL GROUP PRICE! # **ONLY $25 PER MEMBER!** ### **Discounted from $40—save $15 per person!** Your registration includes a **75–90-minute guided backstage experience**, with a dedicated guide for your group of 10. **An afternoon inside one of New York City’s great cultural institutions, shared with your fellow Social Club members—for just $25!** *** ## ⚠️ IMPORTANT TOUR INFORMATION—PLEASE READ CAREFULLY This is an active tour of a working opera house. Please review these requirements before registering. ### 🕒 ARRIVAL & TIMING * This is a **weekday, mid-afternoon event**. * Tours assemble **15 minutes before departure** at the **south end of the Metropolitan Opera House lobby**. * **Arrive no later than 2:45 PM for our reserved 3:00 PM start.** * The Met’s departure procedures allow tours to leave between **3:00 and 3:15 PM**. This is **not** an additional arrival window. * **Late arrivals will not be admitted once the tour has begun.** ### ⏱️ FULL PARTICIPATION IS REQUIRED * Allow **75–90 minutes** for the tour. * **All participants must remain with their assigned group for the entire tour.** * **Early departure is not permitted.** Please ensure your schedule allows you to stay until the tour concludes. ### 🚗 IF YOU ARE DELAYED * **Message David immediately** if you encounter a delay. * A message does **not** guarantee late admission. * Failure to notify David may result in your reservation not being honored. ### 🚶 WALKING & ACCESSIBILITY * The tour includes **considerable standing, walking, stairs and elevator use**. * **Comfortable footwear is strongly recommended.** * Members requiring wheelchair access or other mobility accommodations must **notify David when registering**, so arrangements can be discussed in advance. ### 🎒 BAGS & PERSONAL ITEMS **Travel light!** 🚫 **Not permitted:** Backpacks, briefcases, shopping bags, luggage or large packages. ✅ **Permitted:** A small purse, handbag or wallet. * **There is no checkroom available.** * Members arriving with prohibited bags may be **denied entry without a refund**. ### 📸 PHOTOGRAPHY **Photography is strictly prohibited inside the Metropolitan Opera House during the tour.** ### 🚻 RESTROOMS **There are no restroom stops available during the tour.** Please plan to use facilities before or after the experience. ### 🎟️ PAYMENT & CANCELLATIONS **All tickets are nonrefundable and nonexchangeable under any circumstances.** Please confirm that you can attend before registering and review our Social Club’s applicable Rules, Regulations and Bylaws. *** ## ✨ COME DISCOVER THE WORLD BEHIND THE PERFORMANCE! From the craftsmanship of costumes and scenery to the engineering beneath the stage, this experience offers a fascinating perspective on what it takes to bring opera to life. **Come curious. Leave with a whole new appreciation for the magic behind the curtain.** # 🎭 ONLY 20 PLACES—RESERVE YOURS! ### **Tuesday, November 10 • 3:00 PM • Just $25**
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