Sharjah24: The 9th Sharjah International Film Festival for Children and Youth kicked off its educational workshop sessions yesterday evening at the Al Jawaher Reception and Convention Centre, Sharjah, with a host of professionals who coached and trained young minds to imagine, create, and produce relevant and engaging visual media content.

Day 2 of SIFF 2022 commenced with a ‘Basic Video’ session led by Arya Chitra, Head of Operations at Nikon Kids Photo Club at Nikon MENA, where participants learnt how to film and edit videos and post them on social media using cameras provided by the facilitator. 

Targeting all age groups, participants were introduced to mirrorless photography and concepts of light and contrasts using the advanced, newly launched Z-50 Nikon camera. The 50-minute workshop also gave practical training on the functions and uses of various camera settings and controls. 
With the mission of “getting to know the camera better so that the end product is finer”, the workshop also introduced participants to the basics of video making to help them venture into any level and genre of photography.

Building a character through makeup
At the workshop titled 'SFX Makeup Demonstration’, young children and youth learned how to create scars, burns, and special effects using household items.
 
Showcasing the Special FX makeup used on the lead actress of the film Maleficent, trainer Rafea Al Rumaithi noted that the work of the makeup artist is to evoke a realistic effect that keeps viewers glued to their seats. Whether it is a gushing wound or a burn scar, special FX makeup evokes different emotions from the viewers including fear and empathy, and at the same time, lends authenticity to the character.

Deep dive into filmmaking
At the workshop titled, ‘Filmmaking: Learning by Watching’, organised by Creative Lab, Talal Alasmani of Image Nation Abu Dhabi, a film, entertainment and content creation company, set about nurturing young minds at SIFF with the tools, techniques and different facets of filmmaking to inspire them on their creative journeys.

The workshop was a great opportunity for young film enthusiasts to explore their passions and build their skills by learning techniques of storytelling and the craft of filmmaking without having to invest in expensive equipment.