Live, in-person cinematography workshop
16 September 2026, Cambridge, Uk
This intimate workshop takes you behind the scenes as we build dramatic lighting setups and frame scenes from scratch. You’ll see the how and why behind every single creative decision, learning how to achieve cinematic drama without a Hollywood budget.
Join me in an intensive, full-day masterclass co-hosted by filmmaker Nicolas Umberto Hepburn (Zagara Pictures), exploring the tools, setups, and creative choices that bring dramatic scripts to life.
Who’s it for?
This masterclass is built for ambitious visual storytellers ready to level up their craft. Whether you’re an AC looking to step up to DP, a branded content maker aiming to push your creative boundaries, or an indie filmmaker determined to maximize production value on everyday equipment, this hands-on day will give you the practical tools, techniques, and confidence to elevate your drama work.
High-End Look, Accessible Gear
You don’t need a massive grip truck or premium-rate gear to create powerful drama. This masterclass is designed specifically around accessible, small-budget equipment. We’ll be working hands-on with everyday indie kits like Nanlites, softboxes, and a Blackmagic 6K, in a real physical space, walking you through every lighting setup and framing decision so you can elevate your production value using the gear you can actually get your hands on.
What you’ll learn
- Watch me light three distinct scenes from scratch: a tense drama, a romcom “meet-cute,” and a slasher movie.
- Learn where to start when deciding how to light a scene, how to control natural/reflected light using negative fill, and how to work with practicals.
- Master the concept of “short key” lighting and cross-backlighting for high-end cinematic dialogue scenes
- Learn how to use color contrast, light meters, T-stops, and f-stops effectively.
- Discover how to create the impression of 3D depth in a 2D image
- Learn how to find the most cinematic master shot and building your lighting for it