Moviemaking


Resources
Moviemaking Requirements
Current Scouts BSA requirements
as of June 6, 2026
as of June 6, 2026
1.
Discuss and demonstrate the proper elements of a good motion picture. In
your discussion, include visual storytelling, rhythm, the 180-axis rule,
camera movement, framing and composition of camera shots, and lens
selection.
2.
Do the following:
a.
In a three- or four-paragraph treatment, tell the story you plan
to produce, making sure that the treatment conveys a visual
picture.
b.
Prepare a storyboard for your motion picture.
NOTE: This can be done with rough sketches and stick
figures.
c.
Demonstrate the following motion picture shooting techniques:
1.
Using a tripod
2.
Panning a camera
3.
Framing a shot
4.
Selecting an angle
5.
Selecting proper lighting
6.
Handheld shooting
d.
Using motion picture shooting techniques, plan ONE of the
following programs. Start with a treatment and complete the
requirement by presenting this program to a pack or your troop,
patrol, or class.
1.
Film a court of honor and show it to an audience.
2.
Create a short feature of your own design, using the
techniques you learned.
3.
Shoot a vignette that could be used to train a new Scout
in a Scouting skill.
3.
Do ONE of the following:
a.
With your parent or guardian's permission and your counselor's
approval, visit a film set or television production studio and
watch how production work is done.
b.
Explain to your counselor the elements of the zoom lens and
three important parts.
4.
Do ONE of the following:
a.
Explore careers related to this merit badge. Research one career
to learn about the training and education needed, costs, job
prospects, salary, job duties, and career advancement. Your
research methods may include—with your parent or guardian's
permission—an internet or library search, an interview with a
professional in the field, or a visit to a location where people
in this career work. Discuss with your counselor both your
findings and what about this profession might make it an
interesting career.
b.
Explore how you could use knowledge and skills from this merit
badge to pursue a hobby or healthy lifestyle. Research any
training needed, expenses, and organizations that promote or
support it. Discuss with your counselor what short-term and
long-term goals you might have if you pursued this.