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As part of the local NEA Big Read program exploring Mary Roach's bestselling book Fuzz: When Nature Breaks the Law, El Raton Media Works is thrilled to host the free Film & Media Camp: Storytelling Through the Lens from June 8 to June 19, 2026 - Mondays through Fridays from 1 PM to 5 PM daily.

This immersive, two-week camp invites youth and adults of all experience levels to step behind the camera and translate the relatable, real-world dynamics of humans and nature into compelling visual stories.

Participants will receive hands-on, collaborative experience developing scripts, operating equipment, and editing original short films across various formats in a supportive environment.

The creative journey will culminate in a grand premiere, where the filmmakers will have the thrilling opportunity to see their hard work showcased on the big screen during the NEA Big Read Closing Celebration at the historic Shuler Theater on June 27, 2026.

Space is limited for this free creative launchpad in Raton, so aspiring filmmakers are encouraged to secure their spot and register today by visiting elratonmediaworks.org/events/nea-film-camp.

Short Film Showcase at Shuler (Film Prize Junior Raton+)

On the evening of May 8th, the Historic Shuler Theater came alive with cinematic magic as the community gathered to celebrate the incredible success of Raton's youth filmmakers at our free Short Film Showcase to celebrate not only our youth filmmakers that participated in the 2026 Film Prize Junior New Mexico (FPJ) competition and mentored by El Raton Media Works (ERMW), but also other local filmmakers: Christian Padilla, Mauricio Meneses, Jacob Jaramillo, Will Elder, and local actors Tom and Beverly Morse.

A supportive house cheered during the hometown screening of "I Love You. Always.," which proudly took home the FPJ Middle School Virtual Audience Choice Award at the Film Prize Jr. New Mexico competition in Albuquerque. Audiences were also treated to "Class of 2026," alongside other inspiring projects crafted by talented El Raton Media Works’ Dual Credit students.

Following the screenings, an engaging Q&A session allowed attendees to go behind the scenes with our award-winning young creators, making it a truly unforgettable night of local innovation and inspiration. We couldn't be prouder!

If you missed the screening last Friday, check out the ERMW youth films here:

Class of 2026: https://youtu.be/zr-J5Y0jGFk

I Love You. Always.: https://youtu.be/K27TjhNeQ9Y

Coal to Gold: https://youtu.be/xnr4FV8aZc8

Regret: https://youtu.be/_AGri-lvyHA

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We are all currently volunteers, but as we expand various paid opportunities come up in addition to volunteer work. Our goals are large and require people with all sorts of various different talents and backgrounds to make it possible. We'd love to hear from you!