The Art of Cinematography
Step into the world of visual storytelling and learn how to capture compelling images through the art of cinematography. This immersive weekend workshop focuses on the creative side of filmmaking—composition, lighting, tone, and the psychology behind powerful visuals.
This workshop is ideal for intermediate creators, but motivated beginners are absolutely welcome.
Whether you’re shooting on a camera or a smartphone, you’ll learn how to make the most of the equipment you already have.
What We’ll Explore
◦ Composition and visual storytelling
◦ Natural and indoor lighting techniques
◦ Camera movement and framing
◦ The psychology of tone and mood in film
◦ How to optimize the gear you already own
◦ Low-budget solutions for tripods, camera platforms, and support tools
◦ Location scouting and visual planning
◦ Collaborative creative process in filmmaking
There will be some technical discussion, but the focus is primarily on the artistic side of cinematography.
Your Instructor
Christopher Toussaint is an award-winning film & video Producer/Director, Writer, Director of Photography (DP) and Editor. Currently he is owner of Free Spirit Productions in Dulzura, California and the Director of Transvision, a spiritual media society devoted to conscious and healing program production.
Schedule
Friday – Orientation 5:30 PM
We’ll begin the weekend by connecting as a group.
Orientation includes:
◦ Overview of the workshop syllabus
◦ Watching and discussing a video on the craft of cinematography
◦ Participant goal setting and skills assessment
◦ Creating a Telegram group for communication and sharing work
Saturday – Full Immersion Day 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM
A day of hands-on exploration and creative practice.
Morning Session
◦ Outdoor demonstration (weather permitting)
◦ Composition fundamentals
◦ Natural lighting techniques
◦ Focal lengths and negative space
◦ Camera movement
◦ Low-budget camera support solutions
LUNCH BREAK
Lunch and dinner add-on options are available to order in advance https://emmagabrielle.net/cinematography-workshop, or participants are welcome to bring their own meals.
You will also have access to a full outdoor kitchen.
Afternoon Assignment
Participants will scout locations around the property and complete an individual filming assignment.
Each participant will:
◦ Select a location
◦ Capture 5–7 cinematic angles
◦ Follow specific creative prompts to include in each shot
Evening Showcase
We’ll gather together to:
◦ Present our footage
◦ Share our creative process
◦ Receive peer feedback and discussion
DINNER BREAK
Night Session
Indoor lighting demonstration using practicals and 5 lamp Arri kit.
Sunday – Collaboration & Creative Production 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
On the final day we will:
◦ Discuss how to collaborate and work with other professionals on the set.
◦ Explore the creative dynamics of production teams.
LUNCH BREAK
◦ Co-create several short artistic film pieces together and review.
This final session emphasizes collaboration, experimentation, and creative communication.
What to Bring
Participants are encouraged to bring whatever equipment they already have:
◦ Camera or smartphone
◦ Tripod (if you have one)
◦ Any lenses, camera accessories or gear you normally use
The workshop will focus on optimizing your current equipment rather than requiring expensive gear.
Cost
$100 per participant (Limited to 10 participants)
Camping and lodging accommodations are not included in the ticket price.
They can be booked separately through Hipcamp at Wild Seeds. https://www.hipcamp.com/en-US/land/california-wild-seeds-ranch-lz9h5lm6 or Logify https://wildseeds.lodgify.com/.
Who This Is For
Content creators interested in upleveling their filmmaking and visual storytelling
Photographers wanting to explore motion and cinematic composition
Artists curious about cinematography
Beginners eager to learn the craft in a supportive environment