Lights, Camera, Access
Your Content Creation Journey Starts Here
High school teens can tap into content creator skills with FREE classes and equipment from the Library.
Are you an aspiring storyteller, creative, or entrepreneur looking to learn the ropes of how to bring your vision to life? Lights, Camera, Access is a dynamic, 4-week in-person class for high school teens designed to equip you with the essential skills for making engaging video content. From storytelling techniques and camera work, to post-production essentials, you’ll learn from a pro in a fun and supportive environment designed to spark your creativity.
Come with your ideas, we’ll supply the rest
Classes use the following equipment:
- Digital Cameras and GoPro
- Tripods and Gimbals
- Podcast Microphones and Headphones
- Laptops for editing and post-production
Program Sessions, Locations, and Eligibility
Over four weeks, you will dive into the core components of professional content creation:
- Learn how to operate a camera and gain techniques for video recording.
- Discover tips and tricks for using a microphone.
- Bring together audio and video with the editing process.
- Plot out your videos with a lesson on script and story development.
- Find out how to distribute your content on social media in a safer and responsible way.
Class Information
High school teens in grades 9 through 12 may participate in the Fall 2026 Lights, Camera, Access Course. Additional sessions for adults are coming soon.
By registering for the four-week course, participants are making a commitment to attend all class sessions. Once a registration form is completed, LA County Library staff will reach out to confirm your enrollment in the class. Please note, completing registration does not guarantee enrollment as spaces are extremely limited.
Locations
La Crescenta LibraryTuesdays |
Culver City Julian Dixon LibraryTuesdays |
Gardena Mayme Dear LibraryWednesdays |
Agoura Hills LibraryFridays |
Rowland Heights LibraryFridays |
Norwalk LibrarySaturdays |
Questions? See our Frequently Asked Questions section below. For any additional questions, please email jparra@library.lacounty.gov.
Digital Resources
Interested in learning filmmaking but not able to attend Lights, Camera, Access? LinkedIn Learning provides a vast library of streaming online instructional videos including filmmaking lessons such as the resources below! If prompted, click on “Sign In,” then the “Sign in with your library card” link and type in “lacountylibrary” as the libraryID. Create an account with your library card number & PIN to learn at your own pace.
DIY Video Production for Content Creators, From Setup to Editing
Filming Mastery for Short-Form Content: Gear, Tips, and Techniques
Video Editing Techniques for Impactful Content
Social Media Marketing Strategy: TikTok and Instagram ReelsFrequently Asked Questions
Who can participate?
Classes are open to high school teens grades 9 – 12. Please refer to class and location information for specific program dates.
Is any prior filmmaking experience required to participate?
No filmmaking experience is required to participate.
How long are the group lessons?
Each group lesson will be 90 minutes long.
Please plan to arrive at the library no less than 5 minutes early to ensure lessons start on time and all participants can benefit from the full 90 minute session.
How long is the program?
Each series of Lights, Camera, Access is 4 weeks in length. Participants are required to attend 90-minute lessons every week during the duration of the series.
How can I register?
Attendees will be enrolled on a first come, first served basis through our online form.
How will I know if I have been accepted into Lights, Camera, Access?
Library staff will reach out by email or phone to confirm enrollment status.
Please note: Once the limit has been reached, there will be a waitlist. Customers will be contacted if and when a space is available.
Will there be one-on-one instruction?
The format of the classes will be done in a group setting, and Teaching Artists will provide progress reports and assessments for students.
How many classes do I need to attend?
Attendance at each class is mandatory.
We ask participants to carefully consider other schedule obligations before submitting an online enrollment form and reserving a space in the program.
What happens if I miss a lesson?
Due to the short nature of the program, participants will be required to attend all lessons to maximize the benefits of this free service. Participants who miss any lessons may be removed from services.
We ask participants to carefully consider other schedule obligations before submitting an online enrollment form and reserving a space in the program.
Can people with special needs or learning disabilities enroll?
Lights, Camera, Access welcomes participants of all abilities. Individuals with disabilities can request accommodations by emailing jparra@library.lacounty.gov.
What skills will the classes cover?
Lights, Camera, Access is designed for beginner level introduction to video and audio production, editing, and social media strategy.
Do I need to bring my own equipment for the classes?
We will provide all the equipment for the lessons.
If I own my own video equipment, can I use it for the classes?
To ensure consistency, participants are required to use the equipment provided by the library for the classes.
Can the Library assist with a long-term equipment loan or purchase?
We do not have any special agreements with any vendors or places to borrow equipment but can provide general referrals consistent with our guidelines for reference services.
Who can I contact with other questions?
Additional questions can be sent to Jose Parra at jparra@library.lacounty.gov. Emails are monitored Monday-Thursdays and will be answered in the order received.
LA County Quality & Productivity Commission contributed funding to help support the Lights, Camera, Access Program
