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CSC A Player in Manitoba Film Boom with IndigiLens Workshop

Manitoba is witnessing a surge in film production, according to media reports, which comes as the Canadian Society of Cinematographers has made a significant contribution to the province’s film industry through its first-ever workshop tailored for Indigenous cinematographers.

The projected production volume for 2024 is set to break records in the province, estimated at $434.9 million, a significant leap from the previous fiscal year, according to media reports. This boom is not only drawing major productions and renowned actors but also enriching the local economy and providing exciting opportunities for filmmakers.

In the midst of this renaissance, the CSC offered IndigiLens, a three-day workshop aimed at enhancing the skills of Indigenous filmmakers. Held in Winnipeg this past May in collaboration with Film Training Manitoba (FTM), the program was led by cinematographer Luc Montpellier CSC ASC, with Winnipeg-based cinematographers Andrew Forbes and Luther Alexander. It focused on advanced techniques in digital cameras, cinema lenses, lighting, and camera movement, providing both theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience. The participants received not only invaluable training but also a one-year CSC membership, offering further opportunities for professional development and networking. The workshop also included the creation of a lending bank of lighting and camera gear, ensuring that Indigenous cinematographers have access to high-quality equipment for their projects.

As Manitoba continues to attract significant film productions, the IndigiLens workshop represents a vital step in ensuring that the local Indigenous filmmaking community benefits from this growth. By providing advanced training and resources, the CSC is helping to nurture the next generation of Indigenous cinematographers, ensuring their voices and stories are an integral part of the booming film industry in Manitoba.