Camera training by a professional with real-world experience.
I offer affordable camera training for professionals who’d like to learn how to shoot. I can help you if you’ve barely picked up a camera before, if you know the basics but lack confidence or if you just need a refresh and some practice.
One-to-one, group and organisational training.
Training is tailored to your experience and objectives, whether you are:
- A Producer, Director, Assistant Producer or Researcher wanting to develop shooting skills
- A journalist or reporter who needs to self-shoot interviews and news stories
- A filmmaker moving into factual or documentary work
- A charity, company or media organisation wanting practical camera training
Although operating a camera may seem daunting – it isn’t as hard as you think and you do not need to be super technical. With a nurturing and supportive approach I will help to build your confidence so you can develop the practical skills you need. I won’t bombard you with tech-talk and will reassure you that today’s cameras make it possible for anyone to film.
What the training covers:
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1
How to set up a camera
I can train you on professional cameras such as my Sony FX6, on a smartphone, or compact gimbal cameras such as the DJI Osmo Pocket.
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2
Lighting and sound
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3
F.L.A.F. The four essentials for every shot: Framing, Light, Audio, Focus.
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4
Practice shooting b-roll, sequences & framing interviews, anticipating shots & capturing variety.
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5
Review footage and feedback
What you’ll leave with:
The confidence to shoot:
- B-roll and GVs
- Sequences
- Interviews
I can deliver one-to-one or group sessions at any location in the country, or in my home near Bristol, or alternatively online.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you really teach me to self-shoot in a couple of days?
Yes, absolutely. Today’s cameras make it so much easier to film. In just 2 days you could walk away feeling confident and shooting GVs and interviews.
How bespoke can the training be?
I always suggest we chat online first so I can understand your needs and why you want to shoot and what you want to achieve. That way we can make a plan to use the training time as efficiently as possible.
Can I train on my own camera?
Yes training can be built around the camera and equipment you actually use. Or you can use my industry-standard Sony FX6, Godox lighting and Sennheiser microphones.
Do you offer camera training for journalists?
Yes I do because this is one of my specialist areas. However I also train Producers, Directors, Assistant Producers and researchers working in factual entertainment and documentary. I know that good camera work isn't simply about getting the exposure right, we also need to know where to stand, what to shoot, how to structure a sequence, how to interview someone, what cutaways are needed, how to record usable sound and how to tell the story visually under real-world conditions.
Can you also help with planning shoots and the process of making a film?
Yes I can guide you from start-to-finish. I have experience in every step of the production process from pitching stories, originating and developing ideas, building relationships with contributors, researching stats & data, scripting, planning sequences, shooting and directing presenters and crews. My training combines practical camera operation with journalism, interviewing and visual storytelling.
Do you train complete beginners?
Yes. That’s another specialism of mine. I love training complete beginners as I have a very nurturing and ‘can do’ attitude. I have been a Women in Journalism mentor for 7 years and am often helping professionals starting out in their careers. However if you are more experienced I can also support you to develop your skills and build your confidence. A lot of the time I find that confidence is half the battle!
Why should I choose you?
I know that half the battle with shooting is confidence so I take a nurturing, empowering and positive approach to training to help you realise that you can do it! I’ve been told I have a ‘Ted Lasso’ attitude and I strongly agree with his mantra: ‘believe’! And unlike purely technical camera training my approach combines my experience as a shooting producer-director on prime-time BBC shows and as a journalist.
What people say.
Rebecca Fleckney
Molly Wilkinson
Frankie Vetch