DOP 1

This introductory course offers a hands-on foundation in cinematography, focusing on the essentials of camera operation, exposure control, and lighting. Participants will practice with professional equipment, gaining the technical confidence needed to frame, expose, and light scenes for film or video. Step by step, you will explore how to shape images with intention while applying industry-standard techniques. 

By the end of this course, you will be able to: 

• Identify and operate DSLR, mirrorless, and cinema cameras. 
• Work with lenses, understanding focal lengths, aperture, and prime vs. zoom options. 
• Adjust core camera settings: ISO, shutter speed, and white balance. 
• Apply the exposure triangle to control brightness and motion blur. 
• Use tools such as metering and zebras to match exposure accurately. 
• Apply composition techniques, including rule of thirds, lead room, headroom, and eye-line. 
• Differentiate between static shots and moving shots for visual storytelling. 
• Set up and expose a portrait shot using tripod, focus, and balanced white light. 
• Understand lighting fundamentals: hard vs. soft light, intensity, direction, and color temperature. 
• Safely operate lighting tools (LED panels, Fresnel, practical, diffusion, reflectors, C-stands, and grip gear). 
• Recreate and adapt three-point lighting setups (key, fill, backlight) for drama, beauty, and realism. 
• Match exposure and white balance across mixed lighting conditions. 

Prerequisite: Videography 

Additional Opportunities at FAPA: 

FAPA also offers full certified training in Photography, Videography, Digital Marketing, and Editing. 

Feel free to contact us