This past weekend, the Black Film Guild kicked off our Commercial Videography Workshop – Part 1 at the Tarea Hall Pittman South Branch Library in Berkeley, and the energy was nothing short of electric.

From the moment the doors opened, a group of passionate filmmakers, photographers, and content creators gathered—some with experience, others just starting their journey. But everyone came with one goal: to get hands-on with professional camera gear and sharpen their technical chops for commercial work.

The day began with a breakdown of camera basics—what makes a cinema camera different, how lens choices affect storytelling, and why frame rates matter in different client settings. Our lead instructor didn’t just explain the tools; he shared real-world insight on how each setting translates into quality content for paying clients.

“This is the only black led filmmaking non profit in Oakland putting in the work”

Then came the hands-on part. Participants rotated through stations, handling gear like the C300 Mark II and Kinifinity MAVO LF, adjusting exposure, testing LUTs, and setting up shots. We watched attendees go from nervous first-timers to confidently operating equipment by the end of the session. There’s something powerful about placing a camera in someone’s hands and watching them realize, “I can do this.”

The standout moment? One group recreated a mock product shot, complete with lighting setup and slider movement—skills they’ll soon be using to shoot actual promos for small businesses during Part 2 of the series. The excitement was palpable.

We also saw mentorship in action. Industry professionals floated between groups, offering tips, correcting form, and sharing what it really takes to be successful on a commercial set. For many attendees, this wasn’t just a class—it was a step toward a real career.

What makes this workshop special is how it blends community, culture, and craft. Everyone left with new skills, yes—but also new connections, new inspiration, and a sense of momentum.

Coming Up Next: Part 2 is where the magic happens. We’ll dive into scripting, directing, and editing 30-second commercial spots for real Oakland-based clients. If Part 1 was about learning the tools, Part 2 is about putting them to work.

Stay tuned—this is just the beginning.