Bernard E’van Productions
Out The Frame Initiative · Studio Lab
Youth Cohort
Out The Frame Initiative · Studio Lab

Where the story is the loudest voice in the room.

OTFI Studio Lab is a 10-week filmmaking cohort for Black and Brown youth ages 13–18 in Los Angeles. Students learn the full pipeline from script to screen with real equipment, real sets, and real credit on finished films.

Ages 13–18 Los Angeles · Inglewood Focus 10-Week Filmmaking Pipeline
Enter the Lab

Recruitment dates and session times will be announced after our space partner is confirmed. Join the interest list to be first in line.

Black and Brown youth collaborating on a film set with camera and slate.
What We Are Building

The Studio Lab for the next generation.

OTFI Studio Lab is where young storytellers from historically underserved communities step into real filmmaking. No prior experience required — just curiosity, work ethic, and a story to tell. We train students like crew, not campers.

From idea to premiere.

Over 10 weeks, students move through a full production pipeline: writing, pre-production, camera and sound, editing, and a community screening of their finished work.

  • Hands-on training with industry-standard tools
  • Department-based roles (camera, sound, directing, writing, more)
  • Mentorship from working artists and technicians
  • Final premiere event for family, community, and partners

A pipeline, not just a class.

Studio Lab is the first step in a larger creative pipeline. Our goal is that every student leaves with tangible next steps — whether that’s returning as a lead, joining a BEP set, or being referred to partner opportunities.

  • Film credits and footage for reels
  • Resume language and portfolio support
  • Recommendations and network introductions where possible
  • A pathway into future cohorts and leadership roles
How It Works

10 weeks. Better Skills. New Films. Real Opportunities.

Each week has a cinematic theme and a clear milestone. Students are treated like a working crew: they show up, they contribute, and they grow in craft and confidence.

Week 1
Table Read: Meet Your Voice
Introductions, program culture, and the fundamentals of story. Students step into writers’ room energy and begin shaping ideas.
Week 2
Build the Story
Loglines, one-page scripts, and pitching. Students learn how to turn lived experience into cinematic narrative.
Week 3
Plan the Picture
Shot lists, casting, locations, and crew positions. The production team is locked and ready to move.
Week 4
Camera Up!
Intensive hands-on camera and lighting training using industry-standard cinema gear.
Week 5
Action!
First production day. Students rotate through departments and learn set etiquette under pressure.
Week 6
Take Two
Second production day to complete coverage, reshoots, and sound capture. Crew leadership opportunities for returning students.
Week 7
Cut to Post
Editing lab: organizing footage, building the first cut, learning pacing and visual storytelling.
Week 8
Lock the Picture
Color, sound polish, and titles. The film is finalized and exported for screening.
Week 9
Roll Out the Buzz
Students design posters, write loglines, and learn how to talk about their work. Promo materials go live.
Week 10
Premiere Night
Community screening with family, friends, and partners. Students present their work and reflect on the journey.
1 cohort of students
Student-led short films
Every student earns a credit
Why It Matters

We don’t just teach film. We launch careers.

Los Angeles is full of talent that rarely gets a real shot. Studio Lab gives youth the tools, language, and proof-of-work they need to step toward a career in film and television.

For students.

  • Real crew titles and on-set experience
  • Finished short film to add to reels and portfolios
  • Coaching on how to talk about their skills and credits
  • A pathway into future OTFI and BEP opportunities

For community & industry.

  • Emerging storytellers rooted in lived experience
  • A growing pipeline of trained, local talent
  • Proof that access + mentorship changes trajectories
  • A model ready to expand into multiple cohorts and tracks
Partners & Support Bernard E’van Productions (BEP) Out The Frame Initiative (OTFI) Keslow Camera (equipment partner) Local schools & community organizations

Out The Frame Initiative

OTFI Studio Lab FAQ

Everything you need to know about our youth filmmaking pipeline for Black and Brown storytellers ages 13–18 in Los Angeles.

Program & Students
What is Out The Frame Initiative (OTFI) Studio Lab? ›
OTFI Studio Lab is a 10-week, cohort-based filmmaking experience where young storytellers learn screenwriting, production, and on-set etiquette from working artists. Students move from idea to script to set, leaving with real film credits and portfolio-ready work.
Who is the program designed for? ›
Our priority is Black and Brown youth ages 13–18 from Los Angeles and surrounding communities, especially students who may not have access to film programs, equipment, or industry mentorship. We welcome beginners and self-taught creatives who are ready to learn, commit, and collaborate.
Do students need prior filmmaking experience or equipment? ›
No prior experience is required. We teach fundamentals from the ground up, and OTFI works with partners and sponsors to provide access to cameras, lighting, sound, and other essential tools. Students are expected to bring curiosity, discipline, and respect for the process.
Is there a cost to participate? Are scholarships available? ›
Tuition and fees vary by cohort and partner site. Our goal is to remove as many financial barriers as possible through sliding-scale options and scholarships supported by sponsors. When you apply, you’ll be able to indicate financial need so we can share current options.
What do students actually create during the program? ›
Each cohort collaborates to write, crew, and shoot short films or scenes using professional set protocols. Students rotate through roles—writing, directing, camera, sound, producing—so they understand both the creative and technical sides. Finished projects are screened for families, community, and potential industry guests.
How do I apply, and how often do cohorts run? ›
You can start by completing the full application or interest form linked on this site. We’ll email details on upcoming cohorts, dates, and locations. Our goal is to host multiple cohorts each year and grow into a year-round pipeline as funding and sponsorship expand.
How can educators, schools, or sponsors get involved? ›
We partner with schools, community orgs, and sponsors who share our commitment to access and representation. Educators can collaborate to host a cohort or workshop; sponsors can underwrite student seats, equipment, or full lab cycles. Use the links on this page or the main BEP site’s contact/sponsor section to start the conversation.
Contact · OTFI Studio Lab
For questions about the cohort, partnerships, or bringing Studio Lab to your school or organization, reach out directly. Please include “OTFI Studio Lab” in the subject line so we can route your message quickly.
Program Lead: Gerald B. Evans
Email: otfi@bernardevanproductions.org
OTFI Studio Lab · Inquiry
Get on the list for the first Studio Lab cohort.
We’re finalizing dates and location for our Spring/Summer 2026 launch. Add your name, and you’ll be the first to hear when applications open for youth ages 13–18.
Join the Interest List