The lights were on, the cameras were rolling and thousands of curious visitors poured through the doors when Perth’s new film studios opened to the public for a special showcase

The large, shed-like studios in Malaga, were transformed into a celebration of Western Australia’s growing screen industry with crowds exploring film sets, meeting industry professionals and getting a behind-the-scenes look into the film industry.

An estimated 15,000 people came through the studios, creating a busy and buzzing atmosphere throughout the day.

The event had a festival-like atmosphere, with food trucks providing refreshments as people moved between the different attractions.

For many visitors, the open day offered a rare chance to step behind the movie screen and see the technology, talent and creativity that tends to remain hidden once the cameras start rolling.

Visitors could explore sets and production spaces while experts demonstrated the work that goes into creating a film, from lighting and cameras to special effects and make-up.

Special-effect make-up artists showed how actors can be transformed for the screen, while lighting and camera professionals explained the technical side of production.

It was the special effects which particularly captivated seven-year-old Sephora Talbot, who was stunned by the make-up on actors who strolled through the studios dressed like zombies.

“Today I’ve seen so many zombies with their make-up done, and I love the way they look,” she said.

“It really makes me want to be on the screen when I grow up.”

The red carpet added to the excitement, giving visitors the chance to feel like stars themselves as they explored the studios.

Industry professionals were also on hand to speak with members of the public and showcase the range of careers involved in filmmaking, highlighting that making a movie involves far more than actors appearing in front of a camera.

Zaya Mbugua-Gentsis was one of many enjoying being in the action.

The four-year-old was practising her voice-over and producing skills alongside University of Western Australia media experts.

“Today’s my first time on the red carpet and I love being here and seeing everything,” she said. “I like the movies and think I want to be in one (when I grow up).“

The scale of the turnout demonstrated the public appetite for the State’s emerging film industry.

The Minister for Creative Industries Simone McGurk said the day was a “fantastic opportunity for Western Australians to experience the excitement of WA’s screen industry and explore the magic of film-making”.

“I hope people leave the day inspired by the extraordinary talent, innovation, and ambition that exists in our State,” she added.