Charlie Ehrman Eyes Career in Film
He’s only a high school junior, but Charlie Ehrman is already eyeing a career in film. Considering his work ethic and the talent he has already displayed, such an outcome is more than just plausible; it’s probable.
The Huntington teenager breezed through a pair of video courses as a freshman and sophomore. Mr. Ehrman is taking Video III this year along with a video portfolio class. He’s also working outside of the regular school day to sharpen his techniques and expand the scope of his knowledge.
This past summer was a time of growth for Mr. Ehrman’s filmmaking abilities. He participated in the School of Creative and Performing Arts “camp” in New York City. The talented junior was tasked with creating a short narrative film. He developed “240 Seconds: A Short Film.” It’s an impressive September 11th related piece of work that can be viewed here: https://vimeo.com/136363835. “I gained experience in all aspects of filmmaking at the SOCAPA camp,” the teenager said.
Mr. Ehrman has forged a close working relationship with teacher Heather Swan, who heads Huntington High School’s video program. “Charlie will definitely have a future as a cinematographer/director of photography,” Mrs. Swan said.
The high school film program has become a comfortable home for Mr. Ehrman. “I find Huntington High School to have an amazing film program,” he said. “Starting in ninth grade with Mrs. Swan, I instantly gained an interest. As I wish to pursue film in college, I am very lucky to be involved in the program. I am also excited that we are getting new computers and software, which can handle our video footage more efficiently.”
Mrs. Swan encourages, mentors and guides Mr. Ehrman through his work. “I have a formed an outstanding relationship with Mrs. Swan,” he said. “She often helped me with the process of writing, filming and editing throughout last year with my projects. She is an inspiring teacher and I am excited to work with her this year and next.”
Mr. Ehrman hopes to attend a college with a top film program. “My wish is to attend a school in Boston or California,” he said. “USC is a dream school of mine. I plan to work hard in my remaining years of high school as I begin to start my portfolio.”
A fine student academically, Mr. Ehrman has career interests that include cinematography and directing. “Charlie is incredibly motivated to make movies,” Mrs. Swan said. “Over the past two years he has completed additional projects every quarter, submitted to multiple competitions, participated in film festivals and taken summer film courses. I am consistently impressed with his work and his wonderful eye for cinematic camera shots. I am so excited to have another two years to work with such a talented cinematographer.”