Residency Program Application

February 2025

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Hi there,

I’m excited to offer a hands-on opportunity for one interested filmmaker looking to refine their craft, gain immersive experience, and explore what a long-term career in wedding and social media filmmaking could look like. If you’ve ever wanted to step beyond online courses and workshops into real-world collaboration, this might be for you.

Over the past decade, I’ve traveled internationally to film weddings, teach, and connect with artists and businesses. In 2024, I published my first full-length book on my editing philosophy and techniques. Now, in 2025, I want to take a more personal approach to mentorship—one built on direct collaboration and shared creative growth.

The Residency

For five weeks (to start), you’ll be working closely with me, gaining practical experience in both the technical and artistic aspects of wedding filmmaking. This is an immersive experience that goes beyond assisting on shoots. I believe the industry would benefit from a deeper understanding and more deliberate application of techniques that create compelling films with intention and artistry.

You will:

  • Receive extensive handheld camera training

  • Develop mastery in Freehand Filmmaking techniques and decision-making

  • Refine your editing approach through The 5 Components of a Compelling Wedding Film

  • Gain insight into brand world-building and business management

  • Elevate your social media and marketing standards

  • Have enough free time to work through any backlog you may have

Lodging is available for those coming from outside the area, and while pay will be determined on a case-by-case basis, the goal is to provide value beyond just financial compensation—through mentorship, skill-building, and creative collaboration. Whether your next step is working for yourself, within a company, or continuing to collaborate with me, this experience is designed to move you forward.

What’s Expected

This opportunity will challenge you, but growth always comes with obstacles:

  • Frequent in-person training and work (based in/around Ottawa)

  • Travel availability is required

  • An editing-capable laptop is essential

  • Basic camera gear is needed

Application Deadline & Interview Process

Applications must be submitted by this February 28th at 23:59. Video interviews for top applicants will begin at the beginning of March.

Goals After the Residency

This residency is designed to prepare you for one of three paths:

  1. Working for yourself as an independent social media filmmaker

  2. Securing a position within a company

  3. Continuing to collaborate full-time with me on future projects

Why Now?

Since 2014, this profession has given me a fulfilling, self-sustaining creative life—one that values exploration, artistry, and meaningful storytelling. But filmmaking is at its best when shared, and the best way to keep growing is by bringing another creative mind into the process.

If this speaks to you, I’d love to hear from you.

Aaron