Intro to Cinematography

May 2 & 3

10 AM - 4 PM

Learn the fundamentals of cinematography in this hands-on intensive workshop.

Overview

In this introductory cinematography workshop, participants will explore essential aspects of camera systems, including mounting, lensing, and building camera kits. They will be introduced to fundamental grip and lighting practices, exposure and composition techniques to bring creative visions to life.

Target Audience

Independent filmmakers, media artists, or anyone new to video production looking to learn more about cinematography.

Outline

Session 1: Introduction to Cinematography

Topics Covered:

  • What is Cinematography;
  • Exposure triangle and and its elements;
  • How to control those three elements and use it to get the results we want;
  • Introduction to camera systems (Arri & Fx6);
  • How to build these camera systems safely and cohesively.

Session 2: Practical Day

Topics Covered:

  • What is focal length and what factors decide their usage with respect to storytelling;
  • Introducing lighting and grip (basic);
  • Blocking and shooting some scenes with the people;
  • Hands on utilization of the knowledge;
  • Review and encouragement to keep playing with these tools.

Dates

Session 1: Saturday, May 2, 10am – 4pm

Session 2: Sunday, May 3, 10am – 4pm

Instructor

Gaganpreet Singh

Gaganpreet Singh is a cinematographer, dolly grip, and visual storyteller with a passion for uncovering authentic narratives. Born in Faridabad, India, and holding a Master’s in Fashion Design from Italy, he has worked globally on projects such as television commercials in India, travel documentaries in Europe, and films in Canada. His recent project as a Director of Photography, “I am Canadian,” won the Best Technical Award at Digi 60.

A graduate of Algonquin College’s Film and Media Production program and a recipient of its cinematography award, Gaganpreet now shares his passion as a teacher at the college. He believes that storytelling through visuals transcends language and culture, striving to craft work that inspires, moves, and brings real stories to life, particularly from underrepresented cultures and communities, as he feels that these stories deserve to be heard.

About National Capital Scriptwriting Institute (NCSI)

Based in Ottawa, the National Capital Scriptwriting Institute (NCSI) is a welcoming and forward-thinking educational hub dedicated to the craft of scriptwriting across disciplines. Grounded in the core principles of storytelling, NCSI offers comprehensive training in the art and technique of writing for a wide range of platforms—including screen, stage, audio, interactive media, and emerging digital formats.

Accessibility 

All doors at DARC have accessibility buttons to press for automatic entry. DARC is located on the main floor (one story above ground) of the Arts Court building. DARC’s main entrance is located at 67 Nicholas Street which is fully wheelchair accessible. Alternate wheelchair-accessible entry is available through 2 Daly Ave at the Arts Court main entrance or the Ottawa Art Gallery. Elevator access is available from 9AM – 11PM.

DARC staff are available and happy to assist with all inquiries and requests regarding physical access.

We also welcome inquiries, feedback, and resources regarding accessibility and accessibility improvement by phone (613.238.7648 x. 6) or by email at access@digitalartsresourcecentre.ca.

Visit https://digitalartsresourcecentre.ca/access/ for information on how to get to DARC, language barriers, fragrance policy, and access to programming.

Cancellation Policy 

DARC is unable to guarantee refunds if a cancellation request is made less than five business days before a workshop. DARC reserves the right to cancel or reschedule courses if necessary and will refund the registration fee to participants if a workshop is cancelled or if a participant is unable to attend a rescheduled workshop. Workshop fees are non-transferable.

To ensure a dynamic and engaging learning experience a workshop must be at least half full to be offered.

About DARC's Workshops

Digital Arts Resource Centre (DARC) provides training in a varied range of disciplines related to filmmaking and media art while making a dedicated effort to create a pathway to an intersectional education. We aspire to be a platform for creative support and community building through active participation and exchange of knowledge. Our workshops and courses explore the ways in which technical and conceptual frameworks can be used as tools to improve your creative practice. DARC’s educational offerings are open to members and the general public engaged in the creation of non-commercial, independent productions and work.

Who Is Eligible to Register for Workshops?

Workshops are open to Digital Arts Resource Centre members and the general public engaged in the creation of non-commercial, independent productions and work (Non-commercial, independent productions are productions for which the director retains copyright and artistic control, and for which the production is neither being produced for a client nor for the purpose of advertising or promotion).

Who Is Ineligible to Register for Workshops?

Digital Arts Resource Centre does not offer our workshops to persons employed by any government body or any major corporation if the resources are being used to facilitate benefit for one’s employer or for corporate professional development within one of these kinds of organizations. Our workshops are heavily subsidized as they are available only for independent artists/learners who cannot typically afford to take corporate rate workshops. You can find non-subsidized workshops from our friends at SPAO or Henry’s.

Workshop Pricing

A reduced or waived fee is available if workshop fees present a financial barrier. We understand that everyone’s situation is different. When registering for workshops, we ask that you honestly examine your privilege (i.e. education, generational wealth, parental or community support, partnership status, and other circumstances that may provide a safety net when financial setbacks occur). For more information please email us.

Accessibility

All doors at DARC have accessibility buttons to press for automatic entry. DARC is located on the main floor (one story above ground) of the Arts Court building. DARC’s main entrance is located at 67 Nicholas Street which is fully wheelchair accessible. Alternate wheelchair-accessible entry is available through 2 Daly Ave at the Arts Court main entrance or the Ottawa Art Gallery. Elevator access is available from 9AM – 11PM.

DARC staff are available and happy to assist with all inquiries and requests regarding physical access. We also welcome inquiry, feedback, and resources regarding accessibility and accessibility improvement by phone (613.238.7648 x. 6) or by email at access@digitalartsresourcecentre.ca.

Cancellation and Refund Policy

DARC is unable to guarantee refunds if a cancellation request is made less than five business days before a workshop. DARC reserves the right to cancel or reschedule courses if necessary and will refund the registration fee to participants if a workshop is cancelled or if a participant is unable to attend a rescheduled workshop. Workshop fees are non-transferable.

 

To ensure a dynamic and engaging learning experience a workshop must be at least half full to be offered.