Coastal Communities Film Society
“We are a Pacific Coast-based non-profit organization dedicated to empowering small communities by supporting their filmmakers and visual storytellers. Through funding and advocacy, we ensure the unique stories of these towns are seen, heard, and celebrated.”
PROJECTS
From the rugged shores of Bamfield to the hidden gems of rural Vancouver Island, we are committed to elevating the stories of those who call these places home. By fostering creativity and collaboration, we ensure that every story, no matter how small the community, can resonate on a global scale. Together, we frame the world through the eyes of those who live it, one story at a time.
We are a passionate non-profit organization based in Bamfield, BC, serving the coastal and rural communities of Vancouver Island and beyond. Our mission is to shine a light on the unique voices and untold stories of small towns and Indigenous communities that are often overshadowed by larger urban centers. Through filmmaking and photographic storytelling, we aim to preserve and share the rich cultural, environmental, and social narratives of the Pacific Coast.
As a grant-driven organization, we focus on securing funding and resources for filmmakers and storytellers, providing them with the support needed to bring their visions to life. We recognize the immense effort small communities put in to keep up with the amenities that larger cities have, often relying on general art societies because they lack the resources to form their own specialized groups. That’s why we provide a platform exclusively for filmmakers from the smaller communities of the Pacific West Coast—our focused approach ensures we won’t overstretch our resources, while creating a dedicated space for underprivileged communities on the coast.
Bamfield Darkroom Workshops
For the past two years, the Bamfield Darkroom Workshop Project has been bringing the art of film photography to life through successful workshops in partnership with the Bamfield Community School Society. These workshops, designed for both adults and children, have introduced participants to the magic of darkroom techniques and the timeless craft of analog photography. Building on this success, we are excited to expand the project with a dedicated mobile darkroom—a versatile space that will serve as a hub for workshops and community use. This new initiative will provide a permanent home for creativity, learning, and collaboration in Bamfield, ensuring the art of film photography and motion picture continues to thrive in our community.
Mini-Doc Web Series
Bamfield: Salty Dogs and Tall Tales is a heartfelt and humorous mini documentary series that celebrates the larger-than-life characters and unforgettable stories of Bamfield and Anacla. From weathered fishermen to wise elders, each episode dives into the lives, traditions, and quirks of a community shaped by the sea, the land, and the tales they tell. Through intimate interviews, warm visuals, and a touch of coastal charm, this series captures the spirit of resilience, humor, and connection that defines Bamfield.
The pilot episode, set to shoot in May 2024, will serve as a proof of concept to showcase the series’ potential. By documenting the stories of locals and the unique culture of this coastal town, Bamfield: Salty Dogs and Tall Tales aims to preserve and share the voices of a community at a pivotal moment in its history.
