From Lens to Screen: Tyler Watkins' Journey in Cinematography at Fern Creek High School

Tyler Watkins, a senior at Fern Creek High School, is crafting his future frame by frame through the Cinematography and Video Production pathway in the Communications Academy. His passion for capturing life through a lens has evolved from a childhood interest in photography to a budding career in filmmaking.

A Vision Coming to Life

Tyler's love for video production stems from its ability to transform imagination into reality. "It makes my vision come to life," he explains, describing how he often visualizes scenes in his head before bringing them to fruition through video. This creative process allows Tyler to express himself in ways that traditional mediums cannot match.

His journey into visual storytelling began early. At nine or ten years old, Tyler discovered photography, which laid the foundation for his later interest in videography at the start of high school. The Cinematography and Video Production pathway at Fern Creek has since provided him with the perfect platform to explore and refine his skills.

Soaring to New Heights

Tyler's arsenal of skills includes aerial cinematography, a technique he was introduced to during a visit to a farm in Frankfort. Recognizing the unique perspectives offered by drone footage, Tyler's parents gifted him his first drone for Christmas in 2020. This new tool allowed him to contribute aerial shots to "A Perfect Blemish," a student-produced film at Fern Creek.

As his expertise grew, so did his equipment. In February 2024, Tyler received an upgraded drone, which he put to use in capturing footage for "Mis-Fortuned," another student film project. This progression demonstrates Tyler's commitment to honing his craft and staying current with technology in the field.

Behind the Scenes of Student Filmmaking

Tyler's involvement in "Mis-Fortuned" went beyond drone operation. He took on the roles of cinematographer and editor, diving into the intricate world of color grading. This post-production technique allows Tyler to manipulate colors and lighting to evoke specific moods, adding depth to the storytelling process.

The production of "Mis-Fortuned" was a collaborative effort involving about twenty students, showcasing the teamwork fostered within the Cinematography and Video Production pathway. This project, along with others, has given Tyler real-world experience in film production while still in high school.

“Tyler Watkins’ journey from a curious child with a camera to a skilled young filmmaker exemplifies the power of passion combined with educational opportunity. ”

Mentorship and Growth

Throughout his journey, Tyler has found invaluable guidance from Mr. T'shombi Basemore, his mentor in the program. "Mr. Basemore is really cool. He'll make a lot of jokes, and everyone loves him," Tyler shares, highlighting the supportive environment that has nurtured his growth.

Tyler's passion for filmmaking is evident in every aspect of his life, right down to his class ring, which features a camera. This dedication has led him to tackle challenging subjects, including directing a short film about gun violence in schools titled "The Ripple Effect." The film's powerful message moved his mother to tears, demonstrating Tyler's ability to address complex issues through his art.

Looking to the Future

As graduation approaches, Tyler has set his sights on Full Sail University to study digital cinematography with a minor in music production. The university's comprehensive film program, which provides students with high-end equipment, aligns perfectly with Tyler's ambitions.

While the future holds many possibilities, Tyler remains focused on the next step. "Right now I'm just thinking about the next step," he says, acknowledging the mix of nervousness and readiness he feels about moving away from home. His goal is to leave Full Sail with a master's degree, setting the stage for a career that may begin with producing short films and potentially lead to directing feature-length movies.

Tyler Watkins' journey from a curious child with a camera to a skilled young filmmaker exemplifies the power of passion combined with educational opportunity. As he prepares to transition from Fern Creek High School to the next chapter of his life, Tyler carries with him not just technical skills but a vision for storytelling that promises to captivate audiences for years to come.