Smartphone Filmmaking – Low to No Budget Filmmaking Workshop with Nathaniel Magbanua

Saturday, November 22nd & Sunday, November 23rd
10:00 am – 5:00 pm with lunch break
WFG Black Lodge and Media Lab

This two-day, hands-on workshop introduces participants to the fundamentals of filmmaking using just a smartphone and accessible, low-cost tools. Designed for emerging filmmakers and content creators, “Low to No Budget Filmmaking” focuses on creativity over gear—showing how compelling stories can be told with limited resources.

Through a mix of theory, demonstration, and practical exercises, participants will learn how to plan, shoot, and edit short-form cinematic content using their phones. Topics will include mobile camera techniques, lighting with everyday objects (like household lamps), sound recording, and basic editing workflows.

By the end of the workshop, participants will have shot and reviewed a short scene, gaining confidence in visual storytelling and the creative problem-solving skills essential to independent filmmaking.

Schedule

Day 1 – Theory + Exploration

• Introduction to smartphone filmmaking and cinematic storytelling
• Understanding shot composition, framing, and movement
• Creative lighting techniques using available light and lamps
• Sound tips for mobile recording
• Exploring mobile filmmaking apps and tools
• Planning short scenes for Day 2

Day 2 – Hands-on Scene Work & Review

• Group scene shoots using smartphones
• Applying lighting and sound techniques in practice
• On-the-spot direction and cinematography exercises
• Editing and review of footage
• Group feedback and discussion

Tools & Apps
Participants will need:

• A smartphone (iOS or Android)

Recommended apps :

• Blackmagic Camera (iOS/Android) – Professional-grade camera app with advanced camera settings and LUT support.
• CapCut (iOS/Android/Desktop) – Powerful and intuitive, with multi-layer editing, sound design, and effects.
• Celtx Script (iOS/Android) – Screenwriting on the go with basic formatting tools.
• StudioBinder (Web) – Shot lists, call sheets, and scheduling tools

This workshop is part of the Winnipeg Film Group’s new 2026 reduced-rate workshop program, made possible through generous support from The Winnipeg Foundation. Thanks to their contribution, we’re able to offer more affordable, hands-on filmmaking opportunities for our community throughout the year.

About the Instructor
Nathaniel Jordan Magbanua is a filmmaker and cinematographer from Swan Lake First Nation, currently based in Winnipeg, Manitoba. He studied Filmmaking at the University of Winnipeg, earned a diploma in Radio and Television Broadcasting from Herzing College, and is an alumnus of the NSI – New Indigenous Voices program.

Nathaniel has worked on a range of projects—from documentaries to short films and music videos—focused on capturing meaningful visuals and telling compelling stories through film. As an instructor, he’s passionate about supporting new and emerging filmmakers in developing their creative voices.

For this Smartphone Filmmaking Workshop, Nathaniel brings his practical approach to storytelling and cinematography to help participants discover how to use simple tools—like their phones and everyday light sources—to create professional, engaging visual stories on a budget.

REFUND POLICY – This workshop needs 10 participants minimum to run.

The Winnipeg Film Group reserves the right to cancel any course where the minimum registration has not been met. Anyone registered for a course that has been cancelled is eligible for a full refund, Cancelled course fees may also be used towards any other Winnipeg Film Group training programs.

Assistance and accommodations are available to participants with different disabilities. Please call or email us for more information: john@winnipegfilmgroup.com