Tokyo · Japan · October 2026
Develop, film, and edit your own short documentary in four Saturdays, and walk away with a finished film. No experience needed, just curiosity. A smartphone or any camera is all you need.
Small group, maximum 8 spots. Shinjuku, near Kabukicho Tower.
This practical workshop guides you through the complete documentary filmmaking process, from your first idea to the final edit. No previous filmmaking experience is required. The focus is on observation, storytelling, real people and places, and developing your own creative perspective.
Supported by
Supported by the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Japan.
Student assignments and completed films are exchanged with participants of Mani Nickpour’s documentary filmmaking course in Amsterdam. View the Amsterdam course
Four-week Saturday programme
A small, hands-on workshop taught in English by Mani Nickpour, an Amsterdam-based filmmaker and film educator who teaches at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam.
From idea to final film
Develop a simple and achievable documentary idea based on a person, place, subject, experience, or observation that interests you.
Record real people, places, situations, or events with your own camera or smartphone during the week between lessons.
Shape your footage into a clear and engaging short documentary using DaVinci Resolve, Premiere Pro, or another editing program you are familiar with.
Complete your short documentary film and receive personal feedback on your final work.
About the teacher
Mani Nickpour is an Amsterdam-based filmmaker and film educator. Since 2006, he has worked across both film production and film education.
He currently teaches filmmaking at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam and Open Studio Amsterdam, and works as a trainer and editor at AT5 (Amsterdam’s regional television station). From 2007 to 2014, he also taught at the Gerrit Rietveld Academie. His teaching combines practical filmmaking skills with visual storytelling, personal expression, and cultural exchange.
Visit Mani Nickpour’s websiteNot ready to book yet?
Leave your email (and LINE if you use it). I’ll notify you about the Tokyo course, dates, and when spots open. No payment required.
Small group · max 8 spots
No previous filmmaking experience is required, just curiosity. A smartphone is enough to start. Course fee ¥33,000. Location: Shinjuku, near Kabukicho Tower.
Only 8 places. Once they fill, registration closes.
Secure your spot with card, PayPay, Konbini, Apple Pay, or Google Pay.
Pay ¥33,000 with StripeOr book via Peatix (same workshop, same price ¥33,000): Book on Peatix
Once payment is confirmed, you will receive an email within 24 hours with full workshop details, schedule, and preparation instructions.
Ask below, or message on LINE (fastest in Japan).