Celluloid for cinematographers and DOP’s

This 7-day course is carefully planned to offer hybrid training with five days of practical training on 8mm, 16mm, 35mm cameras based at the impressive Newton Studio Lab in Salford followed by two days online to view processed materials.  The course is purposely written for former and existing cinematographers and DOP’s interested in being brought up to speed on the contemporary workings of Film cinematography. Time is given for practical sessions building cameras from scratch and troubleshooting potential issues in the process and workflow. The course is led by internationally renowned cinematographers and filmmakers and situated in the Newton Film Lab in Salford complete with film sets for shooting practice.  Material using all 3 cameras will be processed at KODAK based at Pinewood Studios for later review in the 2 online follow-up training days. Participants will be brought up to date with the needs of the current industry in relation to the usage of celluloid and the nuances of each of the cameras.   

Who is it for?

This course is suitable for experienced and expert professionals working in the film industry including 1st/2nd Assistant Cameras, Technicians, Gaffers, DOP’s, HOD’s, and other Camera Department personnel  

What you will learn ;

  • Execute Hands-On Test Shoots: Apply practical skills in multiple test shoots, including interior setups and film stock assessments.
  • Master Film Stock Identification & Management: Assess, order, and manage film stocks for various production needs.
  • Develop Celluloid Cinematography Techniques: Work with 16mm film, sensitometry, colour science, and film development (pushing/pulling).
  • Build & Operate Film Cameras: Load, maintain, and handle Super 8mm, 16mm, and 35mm cameras with precision.
  • Optimize Filtration & Optics: Utilize matte box filters, refine lens choices, and practice focus pulling with depth of field charts.
  • Understand Light & Image Capture: Learn how film records light, modernize film cameras, and adapt video tap monitoring.
  • Navigate Post-Production & Lab Processes: Tour Kodak Lab for development and Digital Orchard for scanning and dailies workflows.
  • Perfect Lighting & Exposure: Master light metering, exposure settings, and the balance between grain and noise.
  • Streamline Film Workflows: Adapt digital filmmaking techniques for efficient film production.
  • Enhance Composition & Grading Preparation: Work with ground glass, aspect ratios, and Macbeth colour charts for accurate post-production.
  • Coaxial vs. displacement magazines and film core types, magazine loading, colour tape system

What is included?

  • Face to face training in our fully equipped Newton Studio Lab in Salford
  • Access to lighting, camera and ancillary equipment
  • Access to leading industry experts
  • Learning resources and materials during and after the course  
  • Sessions led by guest experts from KODAK and Digital Orchard
  • Lunch and refreshments each day 
  • A Certificate of Completion from the University of Salford recognised by industry  

Date: July 2025
Trainers: Laura Hilliard and Steve Wyatt
Course Length: 7 days – 5 days face-to-face and 2-days online
Location: Face to face at Newton Film Studios
Age: Over 18
Cost: £1995
Accommodation: You will need to arrange you own travel, your accommodation and evening meals. Further guidance on this can be found here.

Interested?

Register interest here