An Introduction to Creative Filmmaking: A Three-Day Intensive with Zoe Paterson Macinnes

Learn to make your own short film in the Outer Hebrides — no experience needed. Editing included. Maximum 5 places.

Do you have an interest in experimenting with video and sound but aren’t sure where to start? Over three days, filmmaker and artist Zoe Paterson Macinnes will guide you through the process of creating your own short experimental film — from first ideas to finished piece.

You’ll begin with a brief introduction to filmmaking practice before heading out to film your own footage — with the Outer Hebrides as your backdrop. You’ll then learn the editing skills needed to shape your footage into a completed 2–5 minute film piece. You’ll leave with a finished film and the confidence to keep going.

No prior filmmaking experience needed. Just bring your phone or camera and a curiosity about the world around you.

A Note on Independent Filming Time

Part of each day includes independent filming time. You can head out into the landscape on your own, film near the venue with Zoe’s assistance, or stay at the workshop and plan your piece. The only rule — come back with footage to edit!

About Your Tutor

Zoe Paterson Macinnes is an artist and filmmaker based in the Outer Hebrides. She graduated with a BA (Hons) in Film from Edinburgh Napier University in 2018 and works in short-form film, poetry and visual art through the lens of place and identity. Her documentary work has been screened nationally and internationally, and her film poem

Her film poem My Father’s Bones was selected for Filmetry: a Festival of Poetry and Film in Michigan. In 2022 she was commissioned by the Blue Humanities study for their Film-Poetry, Hybridity and Cultural Resilience conference. See more of her work at zoepatersonmacinnes.uk

Course Details

•📅Dates:  Thursday 6th – Saturday 8th August 2026

•⏲️Times: 10:00 – 18:00 daily (lunch 13:00 – 14:00 · independent filming 16:00 – 18:00)

•📍Venue: An Lanntair, Stornoway

• 👥Group size: Maximum 5 participants

• 🎥Experience required: None — complete beginners welcome

•🎒What to bring: Your phone or camera — whatever you’re most comfortable filming with

• 📔What’s included: All editing materials, lunch and refreshments available at An Lanntair

• 💷Price: £300