TDC Director Vincenzo Condorelli AIC highlights some essential features of the Terre di Cinema Experience

How does learning to shoot on film enhance a filmmaker’s creativity and discipline?

Learning to shoot on film offers immense value, both creatively and professionally. The process demands a heightened level of discipline, as film stock is limited and each take carries significant weight. This necessity for meticulous planning and precision fosters a deep respect for every aspect of the craft—from framing and lighting to the exacting performance of actors. Creatively, shooting on film encourages filmmakers to be intentional and thoughtful in their choices, knowing that every frame must serve the story. The method learned while working with film instills a mindset that can be seamlessly translated to digital filmmaking, resulting in more deliberate, confident, and technically proficient work. This discipline not only enhances one’s storytelling capabilities but also sets filmmakers apart in an industry that values craftsmanship and the artistry that comes with a strong foundation in traditional techniques.

How does Terre di Cinema foster the collaboration between directors and the camera team, and why is this relationship crucial to the storytelling process?

Terre di Cinema is a programme created by cinematographers, with a primary focus on cinematography but encompassing much more. At its heart, storytelling is the ultimate goal, emphasizing that the art of cinematography serves as a powerful tool for narrative expression. Central to this experience is the dynamic relationship between the film director and the camera team, particularly the Director of Photography and the Camera Operator for each short film. This collaboration is essential for bringing the story to life, as it harmonizes the director’s vision with the technical expertise and creative input of the cinematographers. What sets Terre di Cinema apart is that it is the only workshop in the world that pairs a high level of technical training with a tangible, real-world outcome—the production of a remarkable number of short films within a very short timeframe. This unique approach ensures that participants not only enhance their technical skills but also gain invaluable hands-on experience in crafting stories from start to finish.

How does the pitching process at the beginning of the CineCampus contribute to the development of essential skills and the overall growth of students?

The pitch at the beginning of the CineCampus is a defining feature of the Terre di Cinema experience. It serves as a powerful way to empower students and instill a sense of responsibility for what they will accomplish during the programme. Through their pitches, students have the opportunity to shape the composition of the crews that will produce the short films of the CineCampus. This process not only places decision-making in their hands but also provides an invaluable opportunity to practice essential skills in self-promotion and professional image building. The pitch experience reinforces confidence, encourages strategic thinking, and prepares students for the collaborative and competitive nature of the film industry.

What impact does rotating through various crew roles at the CineCampus have on students’ teamwork and the formation of lasting relationships? 

At the CineCampus, students rotate through various roles, alternating between primary and secondary crew positions throughout the shooting days, but always within their departments. This structure ensures that each participant experiences the diverse aspects of their own department – either directing or camera – fostering a well-rounded skill set. The necessity for mutual support to complete their main assignments creates a strong sense of teamwork and unity among the students. This collaborative spirit extends far beyond the film set and the CineCampus itself, forming the foundation for strong friendships and professional connections that last long after the programme concludes. The shared experience of working together under challenging yet rewarding circumstances bonds participants, nurturing a network of peers who continue to inspire and support one another throughout their careers.

Why is the separation of roles between Cinematographers and Camera Operators essential at Terre di Cinema, and how does it benefit participants in their professional development?

At Terre di Cinema, the division of roles between Cinematographers and Camera Operators is essential for the programme’s functionality and success. This separation, which by the way remains standard in many countries and is often enforced by union regulations (such as in the U.S.), allows the CineCampus to operate efficiently and meet its objectives within a limited timeframe. Because our goal is to train individuals who have no prior experience with film and transform them into camera professionals capable of handling film cameras proficiently, the roles of Cinematographer and Camera Operator must be kept distinct. This ensures that participants can focus on mastering their specific roles through targeted instruction. If individuals were required to cover both roles simultaneously, there would not be enough time to develop the level of expertise needed neither as cinematographer nor as film camera operators. Regardless of whether a participant takes on the primary role of cinematographer or camera operator at the CineCampus, the training they receive will be invaluable for their career development. I often say that in my generation, cinematographers all started as camera operators; operating the camera was our first step into the field. Today, the path is more varied—you can become a cinematographer after working as a DIT, for example, which is becoming increasingly common. At Terre di Cinema, we take pride in emphasizing the importance of camera operating as a foundational skill and key aspect in the development of future cinematographers. The allocation of these roles ultimately depends on the pitch process and the consensus reached among all students when forming the crews. This system has consistently worked well and is a standout feature of Terre di Cinema. The role of the Camera Operator is vital, as they are responsible for executing the DP’s vision through precise camera handling and movement. We take immense pride in training young individuals with no prior experience in using film cameras, equipping them with the skills to become fully proficient film camera operators. This proficiency allows participants to return home with an enhanced skill set, strengthening their professional profiles in An industry where the skill of shooting on film is increasingly in demand.

How has Terre di Cinema managed to maintain its affordable participation fee despite global inflation and rising costs? 

Participating in Terre di Cinema offers exceptional value for the quality of the experience provided. With an 18-day programme and a participation fee of only €1,700, the cost amounts to less than €100 per day. This includes access to comprehensive training, exclusive masterclasses and presentations, film stock, equipment, pre-approved locations, professional actors, and full on logistical and production support—an unparalleled package for young filmmakers. We strive to keep the price as low as possible to make the experience most accessible, a goal made achievable through the generous support of our distinguished technical partners, the extraordinary commitment and hard work of the TDC Team and the outstanding support of the local government where Terre di Cinema takes place: the Township of Siracusa and the Siracusa Film Commission. Remarkably, we have managed to maintain this cost despite global inflation, ensuring that participants receive unmatched affordability and quality in the filmmaking world. 

What steps does Terre di Cinema take to ensure an inclusive and welcoming environment for participants from all around the world?

Terre di Cinema is a truly international programme that embodies and champions the spirit of global collaboration and inclusivity.  Throughout the years we had students coming from round 50 different countries of the world, from Afghanistan to Uruguay.  We firmly believe in internationalism and welcome participants from any country, embracing diverse cultures and perspectives. Our doors are open to all, with no discrimination or restrictions, as long as participants share and respect our core values of creativity, collaboration, inclusion, and mutual respect.  At TDC, we foster an environment where individuals from different backgrounds come together to learn, create, and inspire one another, enriching the experience for all and building a strong, supportive international community.