For filmmakers in the region, opportunities to learn directly from Hollywood’s leading creatives don’t come often. This three-day cinematography workshop organised by Lifeboat and Footage Found in Bangkok, Thailand, turned out to be a game changer. Proudly sponsored by Leitz and Sony, in partnership with the Japanese Society of Cinematography (JSC) and One Cool Post Production, this unique event was designed not only to educate but empower and uplift the filmmaking community.
The workshop provided an end-to-end exploration of the filmmaking process: from pre-production, to shooting and into post. Participants were immersed in the creative process, gaining hands-on experience with Sony’s latest gear like the powerful VENICE 2 and the versatile VENICE Extension System Mini.
By bringing in world-class cinematographer Lawrence Sher, known for his work on major films like Joker and The Hangover, Sony opened a rare door to knowledge and inspiration for local filmmakers.
A Comprehensive Learning Journey
Over three intensive days, attendees explored a full spectrum of cinematography and witnessed Sony’s CineAlta lineup integrated into the production workflow.
Pre-production: Breaking down scripts, applying lens and lighting strategies, and incorporating AI tools to enhance planning. Camera testing also allowed attendees to try the VENICE 2 and BURANO, and our extension systems — the VENICE Extension System 2 and our latest VENICE Extension System Mini.
On set: Live demonstrations of scene blocking, lighting setups and technical debriefs.
The scenes were shot on VENICE 2 which is ideal for its high dynamic range, allowing high quality footage to be captured under low-light conditions. With the use of the VENICE Extension System Mini, it provided flexibility to follow moving actors and capture close-ups effortlessly in confined spaces.
Post-production: Hands-on LUT development and advanced colour grading applied directly to footage captured during the workshop. VENICE 2 was ideal in bringing out the gradient of textures and details due to its ability to capture footage in a wide colour space, providing flexibility in the colour grading process.
These lessons ensured participants walked away not just with theory, but practical skills immediately applicable to their own projects.
Insights from Lawrence Sher
Sher shared reflections on his craft and how technology shapes storytelling. Reflecting on his career, Sher described how his love for movies and classics like Rocky and Star Wars sparked a lifelong passion.
“Every time I'm on a set, creating a shot or scene, it feels as joyful as the first time. Being part of telling stories like this is what fuels me.”
Sher highlighted the evolving role of technology, especially Sony’s cameras, in expanding creative possibilities.
“Today’s cameras — like Sony’s FX3 and VENICE — can capture scenes in ways film never could before, especially in challenging low-light conditions. This means you can work faster, with less equipment, and still bring your vision to life.”
Investing in the future of storytelling
The three-day workshop was more than just technical training, it was an investment in filmmakers' creative future. By equipping them with world-class tools, knowledge and inspiration, Sony is fostering a community where passion meets possibility.
As Sher put it, cinematography is about more than cameras; it’s about collaboration, passion and the joy of storytelling. With Sony leading the way, Thailand and the region’s filmmakers are now ready to tell their stories like never before.
