Video for Still Photographers
Los Angeles, September 13th - 14th, 2025
Are you a still photographer looking to expand your creative toolkit with motion? Join Leica Akademie USA for an immersive two-day workshop designed to bridge the gap between still imagery and cinematic storytelling.
Video for Still Photographers is crafted specifically for photographers who are comfortable behind the camera but new to the world of video. Whether you're looking to create short films, branded content, or simply elevate your visual storytelling, this workshop provides a practical, Leica-centric introduction to filmmaking using the powerful Leica SL system.
Over two immersive days, you’ll:
Understand the why behind adding motion to your work
Master the Leica SL system for video (including the SL3-S, SL2-S, and Q models)
Nail exposure, focus, and audio like a pro
Learn the essentials of cinematic lighting and movement
Build sequences that tell compelling stories
Work hands-on with Leica gear, guided by real-time feedback
Whether you want to create short films, brand content, or simply add a new dimension to your storytelling, this workshop is designed for still photographers with zero video experience.
Key Details
Dates: September 13th - 14th, 2025
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Price: $599.99 per person
Group Size: Minimum 6, Maximum 15
Experience: Open to any level of photographer
Difficulty Level: Intermediate
Equipment: Loaner equipment will be available
This workshop follows a clear and structured curriculum led by an experienced instructor, ensuring each concept builds on the last for maximum impact. Expect a dynamic, hands-on learning environment where preparation is key. Bring your camera (if you have one), an open mind, and plenty of space for notes so you can capture every insight.
Workshop Overview
DAY 1
Differences between photography and filmmaking
Mastering the perfect video settings
What is Rec.709 & L-Log?
Understanding key monitoring tools
Landing the perfect exposure
Developing user profiles
Essentials in audio
Live-demo experience
And much more…
DAY 2
Building a video rig
Overview of key cinematography principles
Working with three-point lighting
Camera movements
Planning and executing a sequence
Ingesting and organizing footage
Intro to editing workflows
Sound design concepts
And much more…
By the end of this two-day experience, you will walk away with the skills, confidence, and creative insight to bring motion into your photography practice. From mastering the Leica SL system to crafting and editing your own cinematic sequences, every moment of the workshop is designed to give you hands-on experience and real-world techniques you can apply immediately. This is your chance to expand your storytelling potential, learn in an inspiring environment, and leave with work you are proud to share.
About the Instructor
As you already know, my name is Gajan Balan. I’m a photographer and director based in Toronto. My visuals are an exercise in world building that moves across portraiture, fashion, street, and documentary. My work has garnered multiple awards, publications, and galleries but my primary focus remains on highlighting humanistic stories from around the world. Namely those that draw inspiration from my culture and heritage. My goal is to develop compelling stories that can inspire the next generation of creatives.
My own creative path was transformed when I began weaving motion into my storytelling, opening new ways to connect with audiences and elevate my craft. I bring that same passion and dedication to every student, ensuring they not only learn the technical skills but also discover how video can deepen the impact of their work.
With a commitment to helping others unlock their creative potential, I approach this workshop as more than a class. It’s an opportunity to share the tools, insights, and encouragement that can spark a new chapter in your own visual journey.