IN THIS WORKSHOP
Workshop Summary: A specialized workshop in cinematic lighting techniques for DPs and visual storytellers.Sessions are structured around practical work and scene-based lighting setups.The workshop concludes with on-set trainee placement for real-world production experience
Workshop’s goal: Equip participants with a practical understanding of cinematic lighting for narrative storytelling. Develop the skills to design and execute lighting setups based on scene dynamics and visual intent. Prepare attendees for real-world production through hands-on training and on-set experience.
The Foundations of Light
Understanding Light's Qualities
- Intensity.
- Quality (Hard vs. Soft).
- Color Temperature.
- Light Direction.
- The Exposure Triangle (Brief Review).
- Hands-on Demo.
Exploring Types of Light in Film
History of lighting in film
- Early Film Lighting (Natural Light).
- Artificial Lighting “Early Stages” (Arc Lamps / Mercury Vapor Lights /
Incandescent Bulbs). - Modern Film Lighting (HMI Lights / Tungsten Lights / LED Lights). •
Exploring Various Types of Modern film lighting fixtures (Fresnel Lights /
Open-Faced Lights / Tube Lights / Practical Lights / LED Panel Lights /
Mat Lights)
The Core Lighting Setups
Most Common Light Setups in Film
- Three-Point Lighting (Key Lighting / Fill Lighting / Backlighting).
- One-Point Lighting (Dramatic/Hard Light).
- Two-Point Lighting (Silhouettes/Backlit Scenes).
- Hands-on Demo For Every Setup.
Shaping and Controlling Light
DOP’s Tools to Draw with Lighting
- Modifying Light (Shaping Tools):
– Diffusion: Silks, frames, soft boxes, diffusion gels. When and why to use them.
– Flags & Cutters: Shaping light and creating negative fill.
– Gels: Color correction (CTB, CTO), mood creation (party gels).
– Grids/Lenses: Focusing and controlling spill.
– Bounces: Reflectors (silver, gold, white), foam core.
- Creating Practical Light:
– Integrating practical fixtures (lamps, candles, monitors) into your lighting design.
– Dimming and color matching practicals.
- Natural Light Control:
– Using available sunlight effectively (windows, doors).
– Blocking unwanted light (blacks, flags).
– Enhancing natural light with bounces or subtle fills.
Lighting for Mood and Storytelling
Effecting the Story/Drama With Light
- High-Key vs. Low-Key Lighting.
- Motivated vs. Unmotivated Light.
- Lighting for Different Genres/Emotions: (Comedy / Drama / Horror/ Thriller / Fantasy).
- The Importance of Negative Fill.
DOP's Right Hand in a Film Location
Grip and Electric Department (G&E)
- What is The Electric Department in film ?
- Who is a Gaffer ?
- Who is The Best Boy ?
- Who are the Electricians (Sparks / Technicians).
- Grip Gear in Film Location.
- Electric Gear in Film Location.
- Communication with the Lighting Team.
- Gear Management.
- Ensure the Safety on Set.
Advanced Techniques
Getting your frame to look its best
- Lighting for Movement: How to light a moving subject or a scene where the camera moves.
- Creating Depth with Light: Layering light to give a sense of space.
- Using Smoke/Haze: Enhancing light rays and atmosphere.
- Dealing with Challenging Scenarios (Reflective surfaces / Lighting for green screen/chroma key / Working in small spaces).
Problem Solving on set
Proactive Problem Solving on shooting day
- Risk Assessment: Conducting a thorough risk assessment to identify potential hazards (e.g., weather, noise, safety concerns) and develop mitigation strategies.
- Communication and Collaboration: Maintain open communication channels with the entire production team.
- Location Scouting and Selection: Choosing locations that align with the film’s narrative and aesthetic, ensuring they offer the desired visual and emotional impact.
- Logistical Considerations: Assess the accessibility of the location, the availability of power, truck access, and other utilities.
- Safety and Legal Compliance: Verify that the location is safe for filming and that all necessary permits and permissions are obtained.
On-set Experience for each student
As part of the workshop, each participant will be assigned as a lighting trainee on a professional film or commercial set.
This placement offers real-world experience, allowing students to observe and contribute to actual productions under the guidance of working DOPs and gaffers.
It’s a unique opportunity to apply workshop knowledge in a high-pressure, collaborative environment and build industry connections.
About Sharif Fathy
Cinematographer and Lighting Director
With over 15 years of passion for visual storytelling, photography, and video production, he brings 10+ years of experience across commercials, ads, short films, and feature films.
He has worked on major campaigns for local and global brands, handling both lighting and cinematography with a strong professional touch.
Recently, he was the Lighting Director for Standing at the Ruins by Palestinian-British director Said Taj Farouq, officially selected for the 2025 Venice International Film Festival.
He has also taken part in several advanced filmmaking and cinematography workshops alongside top figures in Egyptian cinema.
Sharif's Works
More Information
Duration
- Number of sessions: 12 Sessions
Fees
- 22000 EGP
Venue
- AFS– Heliopolis
Date and Time
- Sat, Nov 1, 2025 – 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM
- Wed, Nov 5, 2025 – 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM
- Sat, Nov 8, 2025 – 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM
- Wed, Nov 12, 2025 – 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM
- Sat, Nov 15, 2025 – 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM
- Wed, Nov 19, 2025 – 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM
- Sat, Nov 22, 2025 – 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM
- Wed, Nov 26, 2025 – 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM
- Sat, Nov 29, 2025 – 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM
- Wed, Dec 3, 2025 – 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM
- Sat, Dec 6, 2025 – 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM
- Wed, Dec 10, 2025 – 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM
Refund Policy
- Before Wednesday, October 22, 2025 Participants are eligible for a full refund.
- From Wednesday, October 22 to Tuesday, October 28,2025 Participants are eligible for a 50% refund of the total price.
- On or after Wednesday, October 29, 2025 No refunds will be issued.