This unique, professional camera workshop is designed for individuals with a passion for operating cameras and cinematography in general. It provides you with a very unique opportunity to gain first hand camera experience under Juan’s expert guidance.
The workshop is fast, intensive and absorbing. Our key goal is to give students the tools, the mindset and the support they need to work in the real world. By the end of the workshop, students will have evolved professionally, worked with an industry leader, and have professional camera experience.
Cinematographer Juan A. Fernandez leads this 3 day workshop in the art of Camera techniques and operation. The workshop is designed for filmmakers, camera assistants and other cinema professionals who wish to gain insight into the craft of the camera department. The theory and practice of the camera operator, the first and second camera assistant are examined in depth, so as to become familiar with digital and film camera technology as well as film set procedures. The course includes lectures, demonstrations and practical exercises – always with the latest cameras (specific cameras to be announced for each workshop). Students may also request training on specific cameras.
Juan A. Fernandez AEC has worked in the film industry in Los Angeles and throughout Spain, including several years at Panavision Hollywood. A designer of specialty film equipment, his area of expertise includes high speed, underwater, VFX and stereoscopic cinematography, as well as teaching cinema (UCLA Extension, University Pompeu Fabra, ESCAC). He’s shot many feature films, including The Forsaken (Sitges International Film Festival 2015), television programs and advertising campaigns.
The course will cover camera department paperwork, follow-focus theory and techniques, film and file formats, how to prepare a scene, blocking marks, how to set up a camera and its accessories, loading and unloading cards and hard drives, camera cleaning and maintenance, how to use and change lenses, prepping camera equipment for a shoot, camera reports, inventory, slating and how to operate a zoom lens, amongst other topics.
“Aside from the massive technical information that you learn there, Juan infuses you with motivation and and love towards the craft through his inspiring passion and splendid pedagogy. The environment and atmosphere are superbly designed to truly focus and enough time spent on each student. It was really conducive to the best learning income. I attended the camera workshop back in 2010 and Afilm’s been my family since then.”Shadi Chaaban (Los Angeles, AFI Cinematography)