FUJIFILM at Xposure 2024
Join us at Xposure International Photography Festival 2024 taking place at Sharjah Expo Center from Wednesday 28th Feb to Tuesday 5th March.
Where to Find Us
The Exposure International Photography Festival – Main Building, is at Expo Centre Sharjah, Al Taawun Street, Al Khan Area – Sharjah – United Arab Emirates
The Fujifilm booth is located in the Trade Show Area with the below timings.
Timings
Trade Show:
You will be able to visit the Fujifilm booth between these times.
Daily 12:00-20:00
Friday 14:00 – 22:00
Festival Hours:
The exhibition and all other Xposure activities take place between these times.
Daily 10:00-22:00
Friday 14:00 – 22:00
GFX Experience
Get your hands on the GFX100 II in our studio. We supply the gear, the lights, and the models. You supply the creativity.
Pass by the Fujifilm booth and book a time slot.
Free Camera Cleaning
Free camera cleaning for Fujifilm cameras will be running on Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday according to trade show hours, up until 2 hours before closing.
Seminars and Workshops
Join us at any of our seminar and workshop sessions with X-Photographers and Fujifilm Creators. These sessions are completely free.
Wednesday 28th February:
15:00 – Laith Majali – Fujifilm Talk – Camelpalooza
16:30 – Bjorn Moerman – Fujifilm Talk – Inspiration for your next Personal Photography Project
18:00 – Beno Saradzic – Fujifilm Talk – The Secret 90% Rule: Why Planning is Everything in Professional Photography
Thursday 29th February:
13:30 – Ola Allouz – Fujifilm Workshop – Double Exposure
15:00 – Laith Majali – Fujifilm Talk – Shooting on Film & TV Sets: Essential Techniques for Unit Still Photography
16:30 – Laura Bonnefous – Fujifilm Talk – A Dance Between Space & Color: Presentation of Laura Bonnefous’s Art work
Friday 1st March:
14:00 – Ola Allouz – Fujifilm Talk – Archiving the Now: Community Book Launch
15:30 – Dany Eid – Fujifilm Talk – Road Less Travelled
17:00 – Natalie Naccache – Fujifilm Talk – Breaking into Documentary Photography
18:00 – Anthony Lamb – Fujifilm Workshop – Painting with Pixels: Editing Techniques with Anthony Lamb
19:30 – Preet Uday – Fujifilm Talk – Everything is Photographable: Find beauty wherever you look
20:30 – Jassim Al-Muhanna – Fujifilm Talk – The Story of Light: How to Chase Great Light (Arabic)
Saturday 2nd March:
12:00 – Anthony Lamb – Fujifilm Talk – Visual Evolution: The Evolution of a Photographers Style
13:30 – Ziga Mihelcic – Fujifilm Workshop – An Image Within An Image: Experimental lighting using projector and gobos
15:45 – Bjorn Moerman – Fujifilm Talk – Seeing the Extraordinary in the Ordinary
17:00 – Preet Uday – Fujifilm Talk – Everything is Photographable: Find beauty wherever you look
19:00 – Beno Saradzic – Fujifilm Talk – The Secret 90% Rule: Why Planning is Everything in Professional Photography
Sunday 3rd March:
12:00 – Natalie Naccache – Fujifilm Talk – On Land, Sea, and Air – Lebanon’s Environmental Crisis
13:30 – Abdulla Al Hashmi – Fujifilm Workshop – The Secrets of Cinematic Portrait Lighting
15:00 – Stephan Geyer – Fujifilm Talk – Expedition Photography: My photography journey through the years
16:30 – Waleed Shah – Fujifilm Talk – Business of Photography
18:00 – Catalin Marin – Fujifilm Talk – Making it Personal
Monday 4th March:
12:00 – Abdulla Al Hashmi – Fujifilm Talk – Photography: From Passion to Profession
13:30 – Waleed Shah – Fujifilm Workshop – One Light Portraits
15:00 – Maryam Abdulghaffar – Fujifilm Workshop – The Recipe of Food Photography
16:30 – Jassim Al Muhanna – Fujifilm Workshop – Dramatic RGB Headshots
18:00 – Heba El Begawi – Fujifilm Talk – Environmental Portraits: A Story Within A Frame
Tuesday 5th March:
12:00 – Maryam Abdulghaffar – Fujifilm Talk – Why do People Take Pictures?: Documentary film discussion
13:30 – Jean-Michel Lenoir – Fujifilm Talk – Seeking The Great Outdoors with the GFX
15:00 – Catalin Marin – Fujifilm Talk – Your Images Are Valuable
Wednesday
28th February
15:00
X-Photographer
Laith Majali
Laith Al-Majali is a Jordanian photographer and film editor . He produced and edited the Sundance Audience Award winner Captain Abu Raed (2008) and co-produced the Academy Award nominated Theeb (2016).
His latest work as an editor was on Netflix’s thriller “Naga”, which premiered at TIFF’s “Midnight Madness” section in 2023.
In his career as a photographer he’s documented a wide variety of subjects including the rise of Arab Hip-Hop, Camels in America, and also served as a unit stills photographer on numerous film sets.
Fujifilm Talk
Camelpalooza
Camels in America? Who would have thought!
Dive into the fascinating journey of Fujifilm X-Photographer Laith Al-Majali documenting the story of America’s camels.
Join us in a session where we’ll discover his approach, from research to weaving a tapestry of stories with stills, video and even archival treasures.
Witness the evolution of his project, gaining insights into overcoming challenges and creating impactful work.
Wednesday
28th February
16:30
X-Photographer
Bjorn Moerman
Belgian born freelance Aerial, Aviation and Street/Travel photographer, Bjorn Moerman, has been based in Dubai, UAE since 2002. His job as an airline captain together with his personal passion for travel and photography, has brought him to over 80 of the worlds countries.
In 2012 he discovered how the Fujifilm X-series cameras could drastically lower the weight during his trips all over the world, without compromising the image quality. Since the launch of the Fujifilm X-T1 in 2014, he exchanged his entire high-end DSLR gear, for a much lighter and more compact Fujifilm X-series system.
Over the years, he has worked for an extensive selection of international clients and his photography has been published in a large variety of books and magazines such as National Geographic, Flight International, Piloot en Vliegtuig, FujiLove, Architecture and Urbanism, Frame.
For Bjorn, “Photography is the pause button of life”.
Fujifilm Talk
Inspiration for your next Personal Photography project
Wednesday
28th February
18:00
X-Photographer
Beno Saradzic
Beno is a Slovenian born time lapse cinematographer and photographer. He is currently based in Dubai, UAE. But the road to his current passion was a long and winding one.
For 18 years, Beno has trained his eye in the art of seeing in his profession as a 3D Computer Animation and Architecture Visualization specialist. As a veteran digital artist who worked on hundreds of projects for clients worldwide, Beno won numerous accolades and awards for his achievements, such as the rank of ‘Autodesk Master’ as well as the winner of the prestigious ‘Tektronix International Design Visualization Competition’ in 1993.
For his continuous contributions to the art of architectural visualization, Beno was awarded a ‘Special Merit of Excellence’ award by Kinetix / Autodesk in 2005. Beno’s 3D computer generated art was published in several international architectural visualization publications and books such as the ‘3DS MAX 2008 Foundation’.
In 2008, Beno started exploring new creative avenues which lead him to discover the world of photography and time lapse cinematography. Having a solid foundation and decades of practice in related types of visual arts, Beno’s transition to his newly found passion was a swift one.
Stylistically, Beno’s comprehensive portfolio is defined by his profound love for architecture and understanding of scientific principles. His use of light and framing draw strong influences from the art of cinema and the classical masters of painting. As an individual accustomed to self-reliance and continuous quest for personal & professional excellence, Beno believes that life is a never-ending road of learning. He tirelessly experiments with fresh styles of photography and filming techniques while refusing to box himself in any specific genre or specialty field. Keeping the broad and diverse subject matters in front of his lens is the secret sauce to Beno’s creative lifeline and inspiration.
His list of clients includes BBC’s Natural History Unit, the Discovery Channel, Fujifilm, Emirates Airline, Abu Dhabi and Dubai Governments, Government of Canada, Nakheel, Wasl, Abu Dhabi Police GHQ and many others.
Fujifilm Talk
The Secret 90% Rule
Why Planning is Everything in Professional Photography
A professional photographer knows very well that taking a great photo is not just a matter of pointing and clicking. It requires a lot of planning, preparation, and problem-solving behind the scenes.
In fact, the planning phase can take up to 90% of the time allocated to any professional shoot, yet it is often overlooked or underestimated by clients, customers, and even some photographers.
But it is absolutely vital for achieving the optimal results and avoiding unnecessary risks or costs.
In this seminar, I will share with you some of the secrets and tips of planning a successful professional photo shoot in the UAE, where the challenges and opportunities are unique and diverse.
I will show you some of my best work and explain what it took to get those shots, from the initial idea to the final product. I will cover everything from logistics, permits, location access, gear selection, timing, apps to plan your dream shot, weather, to personal readiness and well-being.
This seminar is designed for anyone who is interested in or passionate about photography, whether you are a beginner, a hobbyist, or a seasoned pro. You will learn how to plan your photo shoots more effectively and efficiently, how to anticipate and overcome potential obstacles, and how to deliver high-quality photos that meet or exceed your clients’ expectations.
Join me for this 60-minute talk and discover the art of planning that lies behind every successful professional photo shoot.
Thursday
29th February
13:30
X-Photographer
Ola Allouz
Ola Allouz is an Emirati artist born in Dubai, with a particular focus in culture and daily life photography. With a background in accounting and statistical analysis, Ola developed a love for photography, ultimately earning a degree in Photography from Emirates Fine Arts Society.
Her photography reveals an almost mathematical approach towards details and symmetry, and a powerful passion for sharing untold stories.
This unique mixture of perspective has garnered various international awards and photography distinctions from different countries around the world.
Ola is the founder of @foto.uae Instagram feed, which organizes periodic photo-walks and meet-ups around UAE for like-minded creatives to foster relationships across artist communities.
Fujifilm Workshop
Double Exposure
Learn about the history of the double exposure technique and how it translates from film to digital.
Thursday
29th February
15:00
X-Photographer
Laith Majali
Laith Al-Majali is a Jordanian photographer and film editor . He produced and edited the Sundance Audience Award winner Captain Abu Raed (2008) and co-produced the Academy Award nominated Theeb (2016).
His latest work as an editor was on Netflix’s thriller “Naga”, which premiered at TIFF’s “Midnight Madness” section in 2023.
In his career as a photographer he’s documented a wide variety of subjects including the rise of Arab Hip-Hop, Camels in America, and also served as a unit stills photographer on numerous film sets.
Fujifilm Talk
Shooting on Film & TV Sets
Essential Techniques for Unit Still Photography
It’s not all glamour in the world of unit stills. Join Fujifilm X-Photographer Laith Al-Majali as he unpacks the unique challenges and immense rewards of capturing raw energy and hidden moments on film and TV sets.
The session will focus on mastering on-set etiquette, understanding your role in the filmmaking process, and how he leverages the versatile Fuji X system to capture memorable photographs within all the chaos of making a film.
Thursday
29th February
16:30
X-Photographer
Laura Bonnefous
Through mixed-media images that focus on the spaces she encounters or the ones she recreates, Laura Bonnefous offers a poetic depiction of reality. Her projects navigate between personal endeavors and commissioned work, using both photography and film.
Inspired by the relationships humankind entertains with contemporary landscapes, but also captivated by the mutations our society goes through, she studies and deciphers the mythology of our humanity in order to depict them with sensitivity. From these elements taken from reality, she recreates her own spaces: metaphorical and personal universes.
Both pictorial and sculptural, her work flirts with abstraction, and thus proposes a new archeology of contemporary codes.
She was part of the 30 under 30 Women Photographers in 2015. She has won several prizes, such as the Bourse du Talent, the Prix Picto or the Eyes on Talents prize. In 2023, she won the Lens Culture Critics Choice.
Laura Bonnefous has taken part in exhibitions and residencies across the world. In 2021, she published her first monograph as her series Failles became a book with Éditions H2L2 and in 2022 her second book Kilamba with Louis Vuitton Editions.
Fujifilm Talk
A Dance Between Space & Color
Presentation of Laura Bonnefous‘s Art work
Laura bonnefous will present her different photographic series and her strong relationship to colors and space through her images. She will talk about how she builds her projects, realizes them and shows them through exhibitions and book projects. She will also talk about her connection with the GFX100 which accompanies her in all her projects.
Friday
1st March
14:00
X-Photographer
Ola Allouz
Ola Allouz is an Emirati artist born in Dubai, with a particular focus in culture and daily life photography. With a background in accounting and statistical analysis, Ola developed a love for photography, ultimately earning a degree in Photography from Emirates Fine Arts Society.
Her photography reveals an almost mathematical approach towards details and symmetry, and a powerful passion for sharing untold stories.
This unique mixture of perspective has garnered various international awards and photography distinctions from different countries around the world.
Ola is the founder of @foto.uae Instagram feed, which organizes periodic photo-walks and meet-ups around UAE for like-minded creatives to foster relationships across artist communities.
Fujifilm Talk
Archiving the Now
Community Book Launch
Sometimes archiving needs to go beyond the individual scope to become a collective societal work that includes a narrative storytelling through imagery.
Each witness tells their story from their own perspective, and this is what we’ve compiled in this book.
To introduce the viewer to the community stories captured between the years 2020 and 2023 in all emirates of the country, through the lenses of amateur and professional photographers.
Friday
1st March
15:30
X-Photographer
Dany Eid
I was born and raised in Lebanon, where I studied interior design and painting before joining the corporate world. Nevertheless, I was always passionate about photography and, to this day, believe that nothing is more rewarding than pursuing your passion and following your dream. Thus, in 2014, I decided to leave my corporate career and turn photography into a full-time career.
I travelled across the Middle East and lived as an expat in many countries before settling in Dubai. While this journey wasn’t easy, and I struggled with homesickness, I stayed committed to it and explored the region where I was overwhelmed by its diversity, warmth, and inclusivity. My work from this time reflects these emotions and allows my audience to get a glimpse of my life and my experiences. What I offer over the years, I have developed a diverse photography portfolio and specialized in architectural, landscape, cityscape, and aerial photography. As an explorer of the wonders of the world, I also dabble in travel photography.
My philosophy that you must be immersed in the moment to encapsulate it backs my unique approach to photography – classical and abstract, that constitutes my signature style and illustrate my identity as a photographer, making work easy to distinguish. Combining passion with profession, my services cater to a broad clientele, from corporations to hobbyist photographers.
I also conduct landscape photography workshops worldwide for photography enthusiasts and skilled photographers who know the ropes but want to learn the tricks of the trade. In these workshops, the attendees learn about various compositions, discover new techniques, and access exciting locations where they utilize their learnings from the workshops to develop aesthetic representations of their surroundings.
Fujifilm Talk
Road Less Travelled
Explore Dany Eid’s portfolio in an up-close and personal photography talk.
Friday
1st March
17:00
X-Photographer
Natalie Naccache
Natalie Naccache is a Lebanese – British documentary photographer based in Dubai.
Having grown up to Lebanese parents in London, her work challenges preconceived ideas of the Middle East in modern day society. Naccache contributes to leading international publications such as The New York Times, Le Monde, Der Spiegel, The Washington Post and has been exhibited internationally.
Fujifilm Talk
Breaking into Documentary Photography
Naccache talks through starting out in the precarious and saturated of sectors. Lessons learned from internships, portfolio reviews, and assignments, where passion and professionalism intersect to create impactful storytelling. Learn the importance of never compromising on your worth, maintaining deadlines, and nurturing relationships with editors.
Friday
1st March
18:00
X-Photographer
Anthony Lamb
British born Anthony Lamb is a fine art photographer based in the UK and United Arab Emirates. Anthony was always motivated to pursue a career in the arts, attending art college and completing a BA (Hons) in Furniture and Product Design. His interest in photography was a combination of several influences. When he was young, he was lucky enough to travel to some extraordinary locations such as the European Alps, North Africa and the Scottish Highlands. These visits fuelled Anthony’s love of the wilderness and created an appreciation for uninhabited areas, places where solitary embodiment was possible. Combining his fascination with the natural environment and his passion for minimalist art and design, inspired Anthony to pick up a camera in 2003. His intention; to document his outdoor experiences using a simplistic interpretation of the landscape.
In his photographs, negative space and an ethereal aesthetic provide the viewer with a sense of serenity and calm, interpreting the emotions of the moments captured. His post-production style offers pastel expressionism to soothe the soul further. Incorporating a minimalistic approach within his photography and drawn to water and open space; you will see these narratives in many of his photographs. “My wish is to offer different frames of reference that transport you to a place suspended between reality and your imagination.” Anthony has over 50 international photography awards, and his work has appeared internationally in exhibitions, galleries, magazines, interior decor stores and his fine art limited edition prints are collected globally.
Fujifilm Workshop
Painting with Pixels
Editing Techniques with Anthony Lamb
Delve into the art of editing with Anthony Lamb. Join Anthony as he shares his expert editing techniques, unveiling the secrets behind achieving a captivating painterly aesthetic in the photography digital darkroom. Discover first-hand insights into his preferred technique, with focus on his renowned desert and coastal imagery.
Friday
1st March
19:30
Creator
Preet Uday
Preet Uday is a Dubai-based photographer well known for his brilliant use of color and signature style in his works. With a versatile skillset in multiple genres, he masterfully produces impeccable quality and stunning aesthetics.
Fujifilm Talk
Everything is Photographable
Find beauty wherever you look
It is the idea that you can take a photo of anything, and there’s something interesting to capture everywhere you look so why limit ourselves to only the obvious scenes.
When you take pictures of everything you will find out what you really enjoy photographing, It’s like exploring your artistic side and finding your own style as a photographer. 1 hour session.
Friday
1st March
20:30
Creator
Jassim Al-Muhanna
My journey as a photographer started in 2006 with a few genres of photography that have always fascinated me. This is the art of visual story telling, human behaviors, documentary, archaeology and street life photography.
In 2008, I co-founded Pixel Company Media Production, then again I founded Photon Media House during 2011-2014, specialized in entertainment photography, as the goal has always been to follow my passion and turn it into a profession.
I enjoyed photographing urban heritage and documentary using the black and white photography films. I searched in the heritage for the meanings of words and proverbs and embodied them in photographic scenes.
I have also used the digital technology & was working on the necessary modifications to simulate old films and here my journey with Fujifilm began. I found the film simulation of old film style in the digital cameras and also benefited from their image quality and color science.
I own a beautiful set of Fujifilm cameras starting from 2017. The first was Fujifilm X100F, Fujifilm X-T3, X-Pro3, X-T4, and GFX100S now. I have always used these cameras in my work from the beginning.
Fujifilm Talk
The Story of Light
How To Chase Great Light (Arabic)
Perception and awareness resulting from the method of creative thinking make a big difference in street photography. The more a person delves into himself, arranges his thoughts, and chooses the appropriate camera and lens, the more he is prepared for the moments that pass in front of the eye.
What is the street? What is the definition of looking? What is creative thinking and inspiration, and how does the photographer speak the language of art and how does it become? Is the photo journalistic or documentary?
These are questions whose answers we will summarize in the lecture.
Saturday
2nd March
12:00
X-Photographer
Anthony Lamb
British born Anthony Lamb is a fine art photographer based in the UK and United Arab Emirates. Anthony was always motivated to pursue a career in the arts, attending art college and completing a BA (Hons) in Furniture and Product Design. His interest in photography was a combination of several influences. When he was young, he was lucky enough to travel to some extraordinary locations such as the European Alps, North Africa and the Scottish Highlands. These visits fuelled Anthony’s love of the wilderness and created an appreciation for uninhabited areas, places where solitary embodiment was possible. Combining his fascination with the natural environment and his passion for minimalist art and design, inspired Anthony to pick up a camera in 2003. His intention; to document his outdoor experiences using a simplistic interpretation of the landscape.
In his photographs, negative space and an ethereal aesthetic provide the viewer with a sense of serenity and calm, interpreting the emotions of the moments captured. His post-production style offers pastel expressionism to soothe the soul further. Incorporating a minimalistic approach within his photography and drawn to water and open space; you will see these narratives in many of his photographs. “My wish is to offer different frames of reference that transport you to a place suspended between reality and your imagination.” Anthony has over 50 international photography awards, and his work has appeared internationally in exhibitions, galleries, magazines, interior decor stores and his fine art limited edition prints are collected globally.
Fujifilm Talk
Visual Evolution
The Evolution of a Photographers Style
The organic development of a photographer’s style. How personal interests, diverse experiences, external influences and boundless inspiration intertwin to shape the unique essence of a photographer’s style.
Saturday
2nd March
13:30
X-Photographer
Ziga Mihelcic
Žiga is a Slovenian photographer based in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. His main passion is Fashion photography, but loves to focus on expanding his creativeness and widen his range of photography styles. He takes every opportunity he can to get the most interesting, innovative and original photo for himself and his clients.
Žiga’s love for photography started in the early 2000’s when his Dad bought him his first digital camera, from there his excitement for photography grew. After finishing high school in 2007, he studied at Arthouse – College of Visual Arts in Ljubljana, Slovenia, and then graduated in 2011. Ziga has now been working as a professional photographer since 2008.
In search of inspiration and adventure, Žiga travelled the world and found an opportunity to work with new interesting places and people and at the end of 2015 he found Dubai.
Since then, Žiga has been working with the biggest fashion magazines such as Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar, Elle, GQ, Marie Claire, Grazia.
Fujifilm Workshop
An Image Within An Image
Experimental lighting Using Projector and Gobos
Learn experimental studio lighting techniques using projector and gobos with X-Photographer Ziga Mihelcic.
Saturday
2nd March
15:45
X-Photographer
Bjorn Moerman
Belgian born freelance Aerial, Aviation and Street/Travel photographer, Bjorn Moerman, has been based in Dubai, UAE since 2002. His job as an airline captain together with his personal passion for travel and photography, has brought him to over 80 of the worlds countries.
In 2012 he discovered how the Fujifilm X-series cameras could drastically lower the weight during his trips all over the world, without compromising the image quality. Since the launch of the Fujifilm X-T1 in 2014, he exchanged his entire high-end DSLR gear, for a much lighter and more compact Fujifilm X-series system.
Over the years, he has worked for an extensive selection of international clients and his photography has been published in a large variety of books and magazines such as National Geographic, Flight International, Piloot en Vliegtuig, FujiLove, Architecture and Urbanism, Frame.
For Bjorn, “Photography is the pause button of life”.
Fujifilm Talk
Seeing the Extraordinary in the Ordinary
It can sometimes feel like every possible shot has been taken in most of the world’s cities, but Fujifilm X-Photographer Bjorn Moerman enjoys creating images that stand out from the rest. Join us for a session where Bjorn will discuss framing and composition, lens choice, and some tips and tricks to help you take your street photography to the next level.
Saturday
2nd March
17:00
Creator
Preet Uday
Preet Uday is a Dubai-based photographer well known for his brilliant use of color and signature style in his works. With a versatile skillset in multiple genres, he masterfully produces impeccable quality and stunning aesthetics.
Fujifilm Talk
Everything is Photographable
Find beauty wherever you look
It is the idea that you can take a photo of anything, and there’s something interesting to capture everywhere you look so why limit ourselves to only the obvious scenes.
When you take pictures of everything you will find out what you really enjoy photographing, It’s like exploring your artistic side and finding your own style as a photographer. 1 hour session.
Saturday
2nd March
19:00
X-Photographer
Beno Saradzic
Beno is a Slovenian born time lapse cinematographer and photographer. He is currently based in Dubai, UAE. But the road to his current passion was a long and winding one.
For 18 years, Beno has trained his eye in the art of seeing in his profession as a 3D Computer Animation and Architecture Visualization specialist. As a veteran digital artist who worked on hundreds of projects for clients worldwide, Beno won numerous accolades and awards for his achievements, such as the rank of ‘Autodesk Master’ as well as the winner of the prestigious ‘Tektronix International Design Visualization Competition’ in 1993.
For his continuous contributions to the art of architectural visualization, Beno was awarded a ‘Special Merit of Excellence’ award by Kinetix / Autodesk in 2005. Beno’s 3D computer generated art was published in several international architectural visualization publications and books such as the ‘3DS MAX 2008 Foundation’.
In 2008, Beno started exploring new creative avenues which lead him to discover the world of photography and time lapse cinematography. Having a solid foundation and decades of practice in related types of visual arts, Beno’s transition to his newly found passion was a swift one.
Stylistically, Beno’s comprehensive portfolio is defined by his profound love for architecture and understanding of scientific principles. His use of light and framing draw strong influences from the art of cinema and the classical masters of painting. As an individual accustomed to self-reliance and continuous quest for personal & professional excellence, Beno believes that life is a never-ending road of learning. He tirelessly experiments with fresh styles of photography and filming techniques while refusing to box himself in any specific genre or specialty field. Keeping the broad and diverse subject matters in front of his lens is the secret sauce to Beno’s creative lifeline and inspiration.
His list of clients includes BBC’s Natural History Unit, the Discovery Channel, Fujifilm, Emirates Airline, Abu Dhabi and Dubai Governments, Government of Canada, Nakheel, Wasl, Abu Dhabi Police GHQ and many others.
Fujifilm Talk
The Secret 90% Rule
Why Planning is Everything in Professional Photography
A professional photographer knows very well that taking a great photo is not just a matter of pointing and clicking. It requires a lot of planning, preparation, and problem-solving behind the scenes.
In fact, the planning phase can take up to 90% of the time allocated to any professional shoot, yet it is often overlooked or underestimated by clients, customers, and even some photographers.
But it is absolutely vital for achieving the optimal results and avoiding unnecessary risks or costs.
In this seminar, I will share with you some of the secrets and tips of planning a successful professional photo shoot in the UAE, where the challenges and opportunities are unique and diverse.
I will show you some of my best work and explain what it took to get those shots, from the initial idea to the final product. I will cover everything from logistics, permits, location access, gear selection, timing, apps to plan your dream shot, weather, to personal readiness and well-being.
This seminar is designed for anyone who is interested in or passionate about photography, whether you are a beginner, a hobbyist, or a seasoned pro. You will learn how to plan your photo shoots more effectively and efficiently, how to anticipate and overcome potential obstacles, and how to deliver high-quality photos that meet or exceed your clients’ expectations.
Join me for this 60-minute talk and discover the art of planning that lies behind every successful professional photo shoot.
Sunday
3rd March
12:00
X-Photographer
Natalie Naccache
Natalie Naccache is a Lebanese – British documentary photographer based in Dubai.
Having grown up to Lebanese parents in London, her work challenges preconceived ideas of the Middle East in modern day society. Naccache contributes to leading international publications such as The New York Times, Le Monde, Der Spiegel, The Washington Post and has been exhibited internationally.
Fujifilm Talk
On Land, Sea, and Air- Lebanon's Environmental Crisis
Natalie Naccache sheds light on Lebanon’s spiraling environment crisis. From the mismanagement of land, sea, and air to the staggering economic downfall reported by the World Bank, Lebanon faces unprecedented challenges. She shows the voices of resilience and activism rising amidst adversity, as Lebanon’s citizens and eco-warriors strive for change.
Sunday
3rd March
13:30
X-Photographer
Abdulla Al Hashmi
Abdulla Al Hashmi is an Emirati Portrait Photographer who masters controlling lights and shadows. Photography was his hobby and entertainment, but as his expertise in lighting grew, he started doing freelance photoshoots and conducting workshops.
He believes that photography is about using both the technical skills and tools to create your vision and get the photo that you visualize. Photography has opened his eyes to see the world from a different perspective where colors, lights and street life took on new interest in his life.
Fujifilm Workshop
The Secrets of Cinematic Portrait Lighting
The workshop is where you will build your own idea and concept in your small studio corner. You will learn how to create and what’s in your imagination, and to realize it by utilizing location setup, lighting, creating mood, costume and other important tools at your disposal.
This is an advance workshop which requires prior knowledge to basic camera settings and lighting.
Sunday
3rd March
15:00
X-Photographer
Stephan Geyer
Born in Barcelona in 1981, but immigrated to Latin America with his family at an early age and grew up living in 3 continents. Stephan began photographing at a very young age with a Minolta film camera his father gave him. Largely self-taught, his photos display a fascination with candid urban life, explored alleys, slums, markets and streets in a constant attempt to truly discover and acquaint himself with what he describes as “real culture”.
Stephan is also a high-altitude alpinist climbing peaks nearing the 7000 meters above sea level, where he explores the limits of his own fears and resilience, and at the same time discovers parts of the world that are hidden from the average traveller. In his expeditions, Stephan captures life on the edge and how it contrasts with the life of those that were born at altitude.
His work is characterised by a vivid physical sensibility. Typically, Stephan seeks the gloomier parts of cities usually hidden from sight by the glittering artificial world, and his perception is often portrayed with the help of contrast and juxtaposition. Photographically, he is more interested in reality than fiction, observation than direction.
Fujifilm Talk
Expedition photography
My photography journey through the years
Check back soon. More information about this session on the way!
Sunday
3rd March
16:30
X-Photographer
Waleed Shah
I live in the United Arab Emirates, born and raised here actually.
The first thing everyone asks is usually where I’m from and I never answer that on our first date. I might tell you over a cup of coffee later though.
I’m a Chemical Engineer by education, started my career working in the oil industry, and slowly discovered my love for photography.
I’ve had the opportunity to work with the finest establishments in the industry, talented local artists and international legends passing through the UAE, and some of the coolest brands out there. I hate to name drop in conversation so there’s a client list on my home page.
My journey got recognized by Fujifilm Middle East and I am honored to call myself an Official Fuji-X-Photographer.
Fujifilm Talk
Business of Photography
Learn to move from an amateur to a professional photographer. The workshop will consist of a mixture of theoretical and practical tasks and cover the following topics:
- Moving from an amateur to a professional
- Buying vs Renting Equipment
- Pricing, Sales and Marketing
- Accounting
- Legal/Paperwork
- Research and Development
The workshop includes various practical tasks and useful tips to make you feel confident dealing with your clients.
Sunday
3rd March
18:00
X-Photographer
Catalin Marin
Catalin Marin is an award-winning photographer based in Dubai, UAE, specializing in architectural, hospitality and interior photography as well as lifestyle and advertising images. He has conducted workshops and photography talks in over 15 countries and since 2021 he is a Fujifilm X-Photographer.
His background in design has given him a unique perspective and an eye for detail which has allowed him to work with top tier clients across the region, focusing on architectural and interior photography as well as lifestyle and advertising images. He has provided creative imagery for clients like Marriott, Starwood, Fairmont, Samsung, Ericsson, Kempinski, Grand Hyatt, Virgin Australia, Emirates and many others.
Passionate about photography since his dad took him out for his first snaps at the age of 9, he has been internationally recognised and his work has been featured by BBC Travel, Lonely Planet Middle East, National Geographic, Time Out, Mondo*ARC and Geo Magazine, while his “Foggy Sunrise in Dubai” photograph quickly become one of the most shared National Geographic Photo of the Day for 2011.
Since 2007, he runs a popular travel photography blog, with over 1300 articles published so far, which has attracted more than a million visitors.
Fujifilm Talk
Making it Personal
Keeping the fire going in your photography with personal projects.
Monday
4th March
12:00
X-Photographer
Abdulla Al Hashmi
Abdulla Al Hashmi is an Emirati Portrait Photographer who masters controlling lights and shadows. Photography was his hobby and entertainment, but as his expertise in lighting grew, he started doing freelance photoshoots and conducting workshops.
He believes that photography is about using both the technical skills and tools to create your vision and get the photo that you visualize. Photography has opened his eyes to see the world from a different perspective where colors, lights and street life took on new interest in his life.
Fujifilm Talk
Photography: From Passion to Profession
Join X-Photographer Abdulla Alhashmi as he talks about his photographic journey from starting out with hobby passion projects, amassing a consistent portfolio through the years leading up to commercial commission for brands and company.
Monday
4th March
13:30
X-Photographer
Waleed Shah
I live in the United Arab Emirates, born and raised here actually.
The first thing everyone asks is usually where I’m from and I never answer that on our first date. I might tell you over a cup of coffee later though.
I’m a Chemical Engineer by education, started my career working in the oil industry, and slowly discovered my love for photography.
I’ve had the opportunity to work with the finest establishments in the industry, talented local artists and international legends passing through the UAE, and some of the coolest brands out there. I hate to name drop in conversation so there’s a client list on my home page.
My journey got recognized by Fujifilm Middle East and I am honored to call myself an Official Fuji-X-Photographer.
Fujifilm Workshop
One Light Portraits
Learn to shoot with only 1 light in studio.
Learn the how the different directions and qualities of light create different moods.
Monday
4th March
15:00
Creator
Maryam Abdulghaffar
I’m Maryam Abdulghaffar. I picked up my first camera at the age of 9 years old, and have been attached to it ever since. I love capturing the true essence of things and showcasing them through my lens.
My curious nature and passion for photography landed me some unique opportunities to showcase my work and be part of some exciting projects.
Received an honorable mention for the “Chromatic Award” in food photography in 2020 and in fashion photography in 2021.
I received three awards for my first short film “Sound of feathers”, for “2nd Best film director”, “Best Short Documentary” and “3rd best short film”. The same film has been selected for 15 film festivals so far.
My goal is to continue creating art behind the camera!
Fujifilm Workshop
The Recipe of Food Photography
The workshop will give a higher level of understanding of food photography, camera settings, the important things to keep an eye on and how to control light.
Monday
4th March
16:30
Creator
Jassim Al Muhanna
My journey as a photographer started in 2006 with a few genres of photography that have always fascinated me. This is the art of visual story telling, human behaviors, documentary, archaeology and street life photography.
In 2008, I co-founded Pixel Company Media Production, then again I founded Photon Media House during 2011-2014, specialized in entertainment photography, as the goal has always been to follow my passion and turn it into a profession.
I enjoyed photographing urban heritage and documentary using the black and white photography films. I searched in the heritage for the meanings of words and proverbs and embodied them in photographic scenes.
I have also used the digital technology & was working on the necessary modifications to simulate old films and here my journey with Fujifilm began. I found the film simulation of old film style in the digital cameras and also benefited from their image quality and color science.
I own a beautiful set of Fujifilm cameras starting from 2017. The first was Fujifilm X100F, Fujifilm X-T3, X-Pro3, X-T4, and GFX100S now. I have always used these cameras in my work from the beginning.
Fujifilm Talk
Dramatic RGB Headshots
Explore how to shape light and influence mood in portraiture by utilizing the power of strobes+colored gels and LED continuous light with X-Creator Jassim Al-Muhana. In this session we will learn how to setup and to effectively use colors to emphasize the power of the subject.
Monday
4th March
18:00
Creator
Heba El Begawi
I am an Egyptian photographer and former architect living in the dynamic and incomparable city of Cairo, Egypt.
My passion for photography was ignited years ago, exploring the rich and vast architecture of Cairo as a student, and further ignited by my love for travel, adventure, and global cuisine.
I believe that a photo is a way of exploring and delivering the beauty of a place. It helps you to communicate more deeply with yourself and with the people around you.
My first documentary project came about by chance, in 2002, while working on a conservation project of Bab Zeweillah (one of the last standing gates of the Old City). Soon after, I began to study photography more formally. After almost a decade as an architect, I took a leap of faith and decided to transform my passion to purpose. I quit my day job and committed to building a career in photography.
Today, I work with a diversity of clients and content. Alongside my newest passion, food photography, I continue to indulge my love for still street and architectural photography. I also lead photography walking tours through the vibrant and timeless streets of my beloved city.
Fujifilm Talk
Environmental Portraits
A Story Within A Frame
Have you ever wondered what an Environmental Portrait is ? How it tells the story. How it connects us with the people and their environment.
Tuesday
5th March
12:00
Creator
Maryam Abdulghaffar
I’m Maryam Abdulghaffar. I picked up my first camera at the age of 9 years old, and have been attached to it ever since. I love capturing the true essence of things and showcasing them through my lens.
My curious nature and passion for photography landed me some unique opportunities to showcase my work and be part of some exciting projects.
Received an honorable mention for the “Chromatic Award” in food photography in 2020 and in fashion photography in 2021.
I received three awards for my first short film “Sound of feathers”, for “2nd Best film director”, “Best Short Documentary” and “3rd best short film”. The same film has been selected for 15 film festivals so far.
My goal is to continue creating art behind the camera!
Fujifilm Talk
Why Do People Take Pictures?
Documentary film discussion
This will be an open session to premiering “Why People Take Pictures?”, and the process of Documentary filmmaking.
Tuesday
5th March
13:30
X-Photographer
Jean-Michel Lenoir
Jean-Michel Lenoir is a French nature photographer. He is awarded at world-class competitions and his photographs are showcased and exhibited in Art galleries in France and abroad. He is also ambassador of GFX system for Fujifilm.
In photography, he is looking for simple pictures which go straight to the subject core, with very few things in the frame.
Lenoir follows a suggestive approach: he does not try to show a subject as it is but shares what it expresses. It is his way of telling stories and conveying his sensibility, like his recent works “Evanescence” & “Elements”.
Fujifilm Talk
Seeking The Great Outdoors with the GFX
Jean-Michel is a full time user of the GFX series system for his professional work. Now after 7 years using 50 mpix and 100 Mpix cameras, he will present you his photographs of his last book ELEMENTS. He will share with you his experience and approach of great outdoors.
Tuesday
5th March
15:00
X-Photographer
Catalin Marin
Catalin Marin is an award-winning photographer based in Dubai, UAE, specializing in architectural, hospitality and interior photography as well as lifestyle and advertising images. He has conducted workshops and photography talks in over 15 countries and since 2021 he is a Fujifilm X-Photographer.
His background in design has given him a unique perspective and an eye for detail which has allowed him to work with top tier clients across the region, focusing on architectural and interior photography as well as lifestyle and advertising images. He has provided creative imagery for clients like Marriott, Starwood, Fairmont, Samsung, Ericsson, Kempinski, Grand Hyatt, Virgin Australia, Emirates and many others.
Passionate about photography since his dad took him out for his first snaps at the age of 9, he has been internationally recognised and his work has been featured by BBC Travel, Lonely Planet Middle East, National Geographic, Time Out, Mondo*ARC and Geo Magazine, while his “Foggy Sunrise in Dubai” photograph quickly become one of the most shared National Geographic Photo of the Day for 2011.
Since 2007, he runs a popular travel photography blog, with over 1300 articles published so far, which has attracted more than a million visitors.
Fujifilm Talk
Your Images Are Valuable
Licensing your images is like having a pension plan for photographers.
