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Learn to shoot and edit engaging video stories

THE CAMERA, THE STORY, THE LIGHT. These are core elements of this training, structured for anyone who wants to extend their creativity and take their video camera knowledge beyond menus, buttons and dials.

Training One-to-One

One-to-One gives you the opportunity to have every question answered, any shooting scenario explained. How much time you’ll need will depend on your experience, what you’d like achieve and the time you have available. Best of all, you’ll get to choose the dates that suit you.

Message for a quote or call 0418 169 955 to discuss your particular requirements. PDV Digital Cinema is based in North Sydney, however training can be arranged in other centres. Online training sessions are also available.

This is unique training – technical and creative

Pieter’s exclusive camera training covers both technical and creative aspects of video photography. You will gain full control over the camera settings, freeing you to explore all the amazing creative aspects of cinematography, knowing that you are always getting the best possible images and audio.

What you will learn

  • Video camera training overview

    Cinematographer, photographer and certified trainer Pieter de Vries ACS will pass on a wealth of knowledge gleaned from years of shooting award-winning international productions. He uses DSLR, Mirrorless and Video cameras to demonstrate brilliant shooting techniques.

    The training also includes location shoots in the surrounding North Sydney area and along the way you'll be using some of the latest video tools and toys. Please visit the Training Gallery for images of the venue, the nearby streets and the stunning harbour views

  • Taking control of the camera

    Video camera, DSLR or Mirrorless. When you take control of the cameras' settings, you take control of the story. Pieter’s unique training teaches you both the technical and creative sides of video photography. You will gain control over the camera settings, freeing you to explore creative side of cinematography. Topics covered include:

    SAYING GOODBYE TO AUTO
    • Setting exposure using zebras
    • Adjusting the colour balance
    • Neutral Density filters - correct shutter speeds 
    • Explain record formats, codecs, frame & data rates

    SHOOTING TECHNIQUES
    • Shooting with gimbals, sliders, dollies & jibs
    • Techniques to streamline your shooting
    • Following action - follow-focus handheld & tripod
    • Time-lapse & Slow-Motion cinematography
    • Audio - recording clean sound

  • Taking control of the story

    Recording video stories plays a key role in the training. Regardless of whether you shoot with a DSLR, Mirrorless or Video camera, defining that story with a camera requires you to think both technically and creatively. Topics include:

    SHOOTING WITH THE EDIT IN MIND
    • Capturing the mix of shots for an easy edit
    • Quickly finding dynamic camera angles
    • Using the 16:9 frame for informative composition
    • Shooting techniques to give you editing options

    USING LIGHTS AND THE AVAILABLE LIGHT
    • How to use natural light
    • Modifying the output of lights
    • Warming and cooling light
    • Advanced lighting ideas for shooting interviews

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MESSAGE FOR A QUOTE

THE TRAINING VENUE

PDV TRAINING GALLERY

WHAT PEOPLE SAY

Your presentation of the material, equipment know-how and theoretical in-depth knowledge is awesome. What’s more you are happy to share and engage the creative gene.

Michael Abelev
Design & Engineering Manager at Miller Camera Support Sydney

“We run a Cadet program in our Newsroom, and for many years now our cadets have undertaken a week of training with Piet, which many have said to have been the highlight of their Cadetship”

Jacqueline Brophy
Business Manager, News & Current Affairs at SBS Television, SYDNEY

“It was practical and immediately useable training. From planning to delivery Piet was willing to cater to our unique needs, and this has continued after the training, offering advice and recommendations”

Heath Eddy
Multimedia Manager at The Telecommunications Ombudsman

“Piet’s training has been invaluable to me as a cinematographer. He was able to customise my learning to fill in any gaps and I’m more confident and inspired than ever to make the films I’ve always wanted”

Adam Williamson
Cinematographer at AWOL Productions, SYDNEY

“Piet was a great teacher and took our team through three confidence-building days of insightful training, from theory to practical. Very engaging and professional throughout”

Tony Steeper
Team Leader, Content and Channels at Icon Water, CANBERRA

“Thank you so much for your amazing Lighting Masterclass in Darwin. I enjoyed very much for the content, style of your class, information and I found you a great source of inspiration”

Francesco Gaviano
Producer/Director at Mystic Media, KATHERINE NT

“Every question you’ve ever pondered is answered, and always with good humour and enough repetition until you get it. It was the best, most confidence-giving training course I’ve ever done”

Justin Murphy
Producer/Director at Hobart TASMANIA

“Training with Pieter is highly recommended to all people working in the industry or even just wanting to be a better amateur videographer”

Graham Gall
Director at Jarbo Productions CANBERRA

“Pieter dynamically milks situations, turning ordinary events into extraordinary courses and it was probably the best training I have ever done, including my degree”

Paul Searles
Composer at The Gunnery SINGAPORE

“I completed a five day camera course. I can’t recommend Pieter’s video camera training course highly enough. The only regret I have is that it didn’t go for longer”

Scott Creswick
Managing Director at Cinema Advertising Australia
MESSAGE - CALL 0418 169 955