Magic Mountain : the annual BEE Training under South Africa's Sun sends 20 participants out into the film and photo world

For the seventh time, Magic Mountain Productions from Cape Town hosted their annual BEE training from the 16th to the 19th of October. The small group of participants consisted of twenty young men, who learned the elementary qualifications for jumping into the film and photo industry on a four-day course.

On the first day, everything was about theory: what does the industry really revolve around, what are the purposes of production companies, what is expected of a driver and production assistant? Cultural differences and basic business lingo were discussed.

Over the course of the next three days, German photographer Jürgen Hinterleitner discussed the subtle difference between photographing objects and models, as well as using indoor and outdoor locations.

During practical training, each trainee traversed various stations. Some assisted the photographer on set, while others extended their driving skills and emergency skills with operation manager Mark Shaw. The two young photographers Duane and Neil gave an introduction into handling equipment. Magic Mountain CEO Sabine Jakob and coordinator Annika Ziehen talked about catering and important cultural specificities.

For all trainees, the highlight of the workshop was the chance to model in front of the camera. Jürgen Hinterleitner asked young fashion design students to create clothes from recyclable materials. The fashion school in Stellenbosch Elizabeth Galloway drummed up a few students and sent eight outfits. The trainees had heaps of fun, putting on the various clothes and posing in front of the camera.

Last but not least, the participants were given a letter of recommendation and certificate of Magic Mountain Productions, containing detailed information about the acquired skills and a list with contacts of other production companies and providers.

The agency takes pride in the fact that many trainees of former workshops managed to gain permanent employment or work as freelancers.

The training enjoyed support from many sides: The President Hotel sponsored the workshop catering, The Fire & Ice Hotel provided their conference room for the theory seminars, The Victoria & Junction Hotel accommodated the photographers, Tempest and Imperial Truck Rental took care of transportation needs, Sunshine and Digital Brothers provided the equipment for the practical part of the workshop and Setscapes assisted with location and props.

If you want to stay informed of upcoming training opportunities, send an E-Mail to the Magic Mountain Team.