Cinematography Courses

ByCity Academy

Filmmaking

Beginner

A beginner cinematography course combining classroom learning and studio practice in camera operation, composition, lighting and visual storytelling.

About this course

The course introduces cinematography through camera operation, lens selection, framing and composition. Learners begin with DSLR cameras, covering ISO, aperture, shutter speed, white balance and depth of field, before progressing to Blackmagic 4K and 6K cinecams with professional lenses. Teaching combines classroom explanation with practical studio exercises and real-world filming scenarios. Topics include high-key, low-key and modulated lighting, camera movement, shot selection, and the visual role of a Director of Photography. Learners also explore how technical and visual choices can shape mood, emotion and narrative.

What you'll learn

  • Operate DSLR cameras using ISO, aperture, shutter speed, white balance and depth of field settings.
  • Use Blackmagic 4K and 6K cinecams with different professional lenses.
  • Select lenses, framings, shots and camera angles to influence mood and narrative.
  • Set up high-key, low-key and modulated lighting for different visual effects.
  • Apply camera movement and shot selection to communicate emotion and story.
  • Explain the role of a Director of Photography and collaborate on set.

Is this course right for you?

The course is designed for complete beginners and does not require previous experience. Its combination of classroom teaching, studio exercises and practical filming scenarios suits learners who are prepared to participate in both discussion and camera-based activities. Learners with some filming experience may use it to refine their skills.

  • Suitable for learners starting cinematography from scratch.
  • Includes practical exercises that simulate real-world filming situations.
  • Taught in a small-group setting with personalised feedback.

Before you go

  • Professional DSLR cameras, Blackmagic 4K and 6K cinema cameras, lenses and necessary equipment are provided.

Class teacher

  • Lyndon Ives

    Class teacher

Where this course runs

City Academy

London's leading performing arts academy

10 filmmaking courses on Learn.London

Upcoming classes

5 classes

Selected date

Thu 7 Jan 2027

18:30 – 21:30 • 4 weeks

£295

City Academy, Farringdon

Lyndon IvesClass teacher
Book this class →

Other available dates

  • Sat 16 Jan 2027

    10:00 – 13:00 • 4 weeks

    City Academy, Farringdon

    Lyndon Ives

    £295

  • Fri 26 Feb 2027

    18:30 – 21:30 • 4 weeks

    City Academy, Farringdon

    Lyndon Ives

    £295

  • Fri 7 May 2027

    18:30 – 21:30 • 4 weeks

    City Academy, Farringdon

    Lyndon Ives

    £295

  • Thu 17 Jun 2027

    18:30 – 21:30 • 4 weeks

    City Academy, Farringdon

    Lyndon Ives

    £295

StartsScheduleLengthTeacherVenuePrice
16 Jan 2027
Saturdays
10:00 - 13:00
Short course4 weeks
LyndonIves
City AcademyFarringdon
£295.00
26 Feb 2027
Fridays
18:30 - 21:30
Short course4 weeks
LyndonIves
City AcademyFarringdon
£295.00
7 May 2027
Fridays
18:30 - 21:30
Short course4 weeks
LyndonIves
City AcademyFarringdon
£295.00
17 Jun 2027
Thursdays
18:30 - 21:30
Short course4 weeks
LyndonIves
City AcademyFarringdon
£295.00
  • Thu 7 Jan, 18:30 - 21:30

    Book now
    4 weeks
    City Academy
    4 weeksThu 18:30£295
    LyndonIvesCity Academy
    LyndonIves
    £295
  • Sat 16 Jan, 10:00 - 13:00

    4 weeks
    City Academy
    4 weeksSat 10:00£295
    LyndonIvesCity Academy
    LyndonIves
    £295
  • Fri 26 Feb, 18:30 - 21:30

    4 weeks
    City Academy
    4 weeksFri 18:30£295
    LyndonIvesCity Academy
    LyndonIves
    £295
  • Fri 7 May, 18:30 - 21:30

    4 weeks
    City Academy
    4 weeksFri 18:30£295
    LyndonIvesCity Academy
    LyndonIves
    £295
  • Thu 17 Jun, 18:30 - 21:30

    4 weeks
    City Academy
    4 weeksThu 18:30£295
    LyndonIvesCity Academy
    LyndonIves
    £295

Showing 1 to 5 of 5 classes

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