Why Film Production Matters to Small Towns: The Economic Impact of Creative Industries

St. Marys has long been a place where history, creativity, and community come together—and this spring, a new opportunity is inviting residents to step behind the scenes and explore a growing creative industry right here at home.

CreateU’s Film Production Boot Camp is coming to St. Marys with a free, immersive, two-day experience designed to introduce community members to entry-level careers in film and media production. Hosted through the CreateU Media Skills Training Program, this hands-on boot camp reflects a shared commitment to education, workforce development, and creative growth in Camden County.

Investing in Creativity and Opportunity

As part of a Pigmental Studios initiative, CreateU was created with a clear mission: to grow a creative community by providing accessible training, mentorship, and exposure to real-world industries. Film and media production continue to expand across Georgia, opening doors to new career pathways that extend far beyond what many people realize.

The Film Production Boot Camp offers participants a practical introduction to these opportunities—connecting curiosity with skill development and helping residents see how creative industries can contribute to both personal growth and local economic vitality.

A Hands-On Introduction to Film Production

Over the course of two days, participants will explore the fundamentals of film production while learning directly from working industry professionals. The boot camp is designed for beginners, making it ideal for anyone who has ever wondered what it takes to work behind the camera.

Participants will gain insight into:

  • Entry-level film and production roles

  • How film sets operate day-to-day

  • The variety of career paths available within media production

  • How skills learned locally can translate into regional and statewide opportunities

By offering real-world context and professional guidance, CreateU helps demystify the industry and make creative careers more accessible.

Event Details

The CreateU Film Production Boot Camp will take place over two days:

  • Saturday, January 31, 2026

  • Sunday, February 1, 2026

Time: 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM each day
Location: Pigmental Production Offices
124 Industrial Drive, St. Marys, GA 31558

This is a free program, and lunch will be provided both days, ensuring participants can focus fully on learning and engagement.

Who Should Attend

The boot camp is open to a wide range of community members, including:

  • Local residents interested in creative careers

  • Veterans and active military members

  • Military families

  • Anyone curious about film, media, or production work

No prior experience is required. Participants are encouraged to come as they are—with curiosity, an open mind, and a willingness to learn.

What to Expect

The Film Production Boot Camp is designed to be welcoming, interactive, and informative. Attendees should plan to wear comfortable work attire and closed-toe shoes, as they will be learning in a working production environment.

Throughout the weekend, participants will experience:

  • Direct interaction with industry professionals

  • Practical insights into filmmaking workflows

  • Exposure to career opportunities that may not be widely known

  • A supportive learning atmosphere that emphasizes growth and possibility

Registration Information

Space for the CreateU Film Production Boot Camp is limited, and registration will close once the program reaches capacity.

To learn more or register:

Early registration is encouraged.

Supporting a Creative Downtown and Workforce

Programs like the CreateU Film Production Boot Camp align with the mission of St. Marys Main Street—supporting education, entrepreneurship, and economic vitality while strengthening community connections.

By investing in creative training opportunities, St. Marys continues to cultivate a diverse and resilient local economy—one where creativity, innovation, and opportunity can thrive side by side.

Whether participants pursue film production as a career or simply gain a new appreciation for the craft, this boot camp represents an important step toward growing creative opportunities in our community.

St. Marys is ready for the next generation of storytellers—and it all starts here.

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