Lumiere Institute of Filmmaking – Where Stories Come to Life.
Lumiere Institute of Filmmaking (LIFM) is a creative space dedicated to nurturing the next generation of storytellers through immersive, hands-on film education. Based in Chennai, LIFM offers a focused 3-month beginner-friendly program that blends traditional filmmaking techniques with cutting-edge AI tools. Designed for aspiring filmmakers, students, and hobbyists, the course takes learners from script to screen under the mentorship of industry professionals and celebrity guest faculty.
In addition to the flagship program, LIFM will shortly offer specialized short-term courses in Advanced Direction & Screenwriting, Cinematography, Film Editing, Sound Design, Documentary Filmmaking, and AI Tools in Modern Filmmaking. These courses cater to learners looking to deepen specific skills or explore niche areas of cinema.
With small class sizes, real-world projects, and an emphasis on practical learning, LIFM empowers students to step confidently into the world of cinema with a short film to their name, and a strong foundation in the art and future of filmmaking.
Cinema is not just an art. It's a language of emotion
Lumiere Institute of Filmmaking was born from a simple vision; to give aspiring storytellers a space to learn the craft by doing, experimenting, and uncovering their own unique voice.
At Lumiere Institute of Filmmaking (LIFM), we believe that filmmaking is not learned through books but through stories you create, sets you build, and edits you refine. Our vision is to nurture a new generation of visual storytellers who are not just technically sound but deeply connected to the art of cinematic expression.
Techniques evolve, tools change, but the power of a good story remains timeless.
Every module is practical, hands-on, and project-driven.
We encourage creative risks, experimentation, and unique styles.
Integration of AI tools and digital workflows to stay relevant.
At Lumiere Institute of Filmmaking, we believe that filmmaking is best learned by doing, not just by theory. Our unique teaching model blends hands-on practical training, personalized mentorship, and forward-thinking AI integration to prepare you for the real-world demands of modern filmmaking.
From Day 1, students work on real projects: writing scripts, handling cameras, directing actors, and editing their own short films. Every module includes guided workshops, live shoot sessions, and collaborative projects, ensuring you build skills through experience, not lectures alone.
We maintain intimate class sizes of just 12–15 students per batch. This means you get individual attention from our faculty, personalized feedback on your work, and direct interactions with visiting celebrity mentors. Every student's learning journey is carefully tracked and nurtured.
The future of filmmaking is evolving with AI tools redefining production and post-production workflows. At LIFM, you'll learn how to ethically and creatively harness AI in visual storytelling, whether it's for script development, editing, or VFX enhancements; making you future-ready.
With regular guest lectures from directors, cinematographers, editors, and technicians, plus studio visits and panel reviews, students gain invaluable industry insights and networking opportunities. Your final project will be judged by working professionals, giving you a credible portfolio piece.
Our 3-month intensive program is designed to be immersive and fast-paced, offering a direct, no-fluff route to creating your first film. By the end of the course, you will have a complete short film under your belt, ready for festival circuits or as a portfolio showcase.
Chennai is an active hub for Tamil and Indian cinema, giving students direct access to industry professionals, live sets, festivals, and collaborative opportunities.
Centrally located and well-connected, our campus is easy to reach for students across the region and country.
At Lumiere Institute of Filmmaking, our faculties are composed of experienced professionals from across the film industry like directors, screenwriters, cinematographers, editors, and sound designers, who bring real-world expertise into the classroom. Each student benefits from hands-on guidance, one-on-one mentoring, and insights from those actively working in cinema. The program is further enriched by celebrity guest mentors and visiting artists who share their journeys, offer masterclasses, and provide valuable industry exposure. Our teaching philosophy is rooted in collaboration, creativity, and personalized learning; ensuring every student is prepared for life behind the camera.
Deepak Josey is a seasoned leader in brand development and strategic marketing, with 24 years of experience driving growth across diverse industries. He began his career in recruitment and operations, honing his skills in process optimization before transitioning into brand management. Since then, he has successfully led the development of over 25 brands, blending strategic insight with creative storytelling to deliver impactful results.
Sushana Adurthi is a content strategist known for her innovative approach and deep-rooted commitment to storytelling. As the granddaughter of renowned filmmaker Adurthi Subbarao, she carries forward a legacy of compelling narratives with creativity and purpose. With 27 years of diverse experience, from teaching coding to event management, consulting, sales, writing, and public speaking; she brings a rich, multidimensional perspective to content and communication.
Priya Banik is a seasoned visual storyteller and photography educator with over 25 years of international experience. Holding a research-based photography degree from the UK Priya has worked across the U.S., UK, UAE, and India, gaining a global perspective and collaborating with world-renowned photographers and cinematographers. A natural mentor and leader, she continues to inspire emerging photographers and filmmakers with her empathetic approach and commitment to excellence, making her a valuable force in contemporary visual storytelling.
