Love movies? Ever wonder what it’s like to be behind the camera? With STLP Cinematography Studies, you’ll learn how to create your own stories through film—from directing and editing to putting it all together on screen. The best part? You’ll get to show off your original short film at the STLP Film Festival!

As one of the featured pathways within the Student Technology Leadership Program (STLP), Cinematography Studies immerses students in the art of visual storytelling. Through a hands-on curriculum that blends creativity and technology, students learn the fundamentals of film production—including directing, editing, screenwriting, and camera operation.

 The program encourages students to develop their voices as storytellers while building technical proficiency with industry-standard tools and software. From concept development to post-production, students gain real-world experience collaborating on original projects that reflect their unique perspectives and ideas.

Each year, the program culminates in the STLP Film Festival, where students premiere their original short films for peers, educators, and community partners. Through this authentic experience, students not only showcase their creativity but also strengthen critical skills in communication, teamwork, and media literacy—preparing them for future opportunities in film, media, and digital storytelling.

Buffalo Public Schools proudly presents the Student Technology Leadership Program’s Cinematography Studies Short Film Festival, an inspiring showcase of creativity and storytelling. This curated event features a lineup of compelling and innovative short films created by talented student filmmakers from across the district.