The Hidden World of Organised Amateur Film-Making

Abstract

In addition to the more informal networks of amateur video-makers we have explored in previous chapters, many local communities have well-established film- and video-making clubs. The clubs coexist with both mainstream film-making and home mode use, occasionally acting as a ‘feeder’ for the former and, more often, a ‘next step’ for those with experience of the latter. In the UK, the majority are now organised under the auspices of the IAC, formerly the Institute of Amateur Cinematographers and now renamed the Film and Video Institute. The IAC is organised regionally and is responsible for most local film-making competitions, as well as an annual national event, and participation in European and worldwide events. At the time of writing, there are around 250 IAC-affiliated film-making clubs in existence throughout the UK. Some are exclusive in their membership — for example, a few are attached to schools or colleges, and thus for students only — and others have a specific focus, for example, preferring to maintain the use of Super 8 or cine cameras when most clubs have already progressed through video and on to DV. Most clubs appear to be dominated by elderly and retired people; and, as we shall see, concern is often expressed about the need to attract younger members.