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EFD Studios at the 15th ‘Salon Internacional de la Luz’: A Journey of Exchange, Technique, and Cinematography

From April 29 to May 3, 2025, EFD Studios had the honor of participating in the 15th edition of the Salón Internacional de la Luz (SIL 2025), an event that has become one of the most important platforms for education, collaboration, and exchange within the Ibero-American film community in Colombia. This year’s edition explored the creative and technical relationship between painting and light, examining how this historical connection continues to influence visual storytelling in both photography and cinema. At EFD Studios, we were proud to support this vision by taking part in the event’s technical programming, highlighting the vital role of cinematography in the filmmaking process. A space for learning, community, and inspiration Over the course of five days, we had the chance to engage with cinematographers from the ADFC (Colombia), AMC (Mexico), and AEC (Spain), as well as colorists, technicians, audiovisual professionals, and students. The agenda featured film screenings, masterclasses, hands-on workshops, panel discussions, mentorship sessions, and technology showcases. Topics ranged from image development and cinematography in period films to HDR workflows, on-set communication, and the latest innovations in lighting and lens technology. The involvement of organizations such as FELAFC, ADFC, AMC, AEC, and ABC—along with the support of leading companies in the industry—underscored the event’s regional and international reach. For EFD Studios, SIL 2025 was a meaningful opportunity to share our expertise, gain new perspectives, and reinforce our commitment to the continued growth of the Ibero-American film industry. Our Participation at SIL 2025 Masterclass: Vintage Glass – Recovering the Past (Recuperando el Pasado) We hosted the masterclass Vintage Glass – Recovering the Past (Recuperando el Pasado), led by cinematographer Serguei Saldívar, AMC. In this session, Saldívar shared his career journey and his passion for rehoused vintage lenses, underscoring their continued relevance in modern cinematography. Attendees were taken through the history and evolution of these lenses—many originally created for still photography—and how they have been brought back to life through careful technical adaptation and mechanical restoration. Saldívar also presented his curatorial vision: to build a cohesive lens collection with a consistent visual identity, where every lens—from wide-angle to telephoto—complements the others. He highlighted unique pieces from Petzval, Leica, Zeiss, and Nikkor, noting that all lenses in the set share the same front diameter, making on-set work more efficient. This project, developed in collaboration with Georgina Terán, CEO of EFD Studios, blends technical expertise and strategic vision to offer the Latin American industry a distinct creative tool with a strong identity. More than a technical showcase, the session was an invitation to rediscover the texture, depth, and emotion that these lenses can bring to contemporary filmmaking.   Ver esta publicación en Instagram   Una publicación compartida de EFD Studios CO (@efdstudiosco) Panel: Gender Diversity in Ibero-American Cinematography Together with the Colombian Association of Cinematographers (ADFC), EFD Studios co-hosted a panel featuring leading women in cinematography from across Ibero-America. The discussion brought together Georgina Terán (CEO of EFD Studios), Nuria Roldós (DoP and President of AEC, Spain), Diana Garay (DoP and Co-President of AMC, Mexico), and Adriana Bernal (DoP, ADFC, and Co-Vice President of IMAGO, Colombia). The panel was moderated by Alexandra Falla, Director of the Colombian Film Heritage Foundation. Participants shared personal experiences and insights into the challenges women continue to face in technical leadership roles, particularly in cinematography. But the focus was not only on barriers. The panel created space for actionable ideas: building inclusive crews, amplifying role models, reshaping narratives, and committing to equity through daily decisions on set. This was not just a diagnosis—it was a collective call to action. The speakers agreed that transforming the industry requires both public policy and internal change: hiring more women in technical roles, creating collaborative work environments, and designing more equitable creative spaces.     Ver esta publicación en Instagram   Una publicación compartida de EFD Studios CO (@efdstudiosco) Mentorship Sessions: Nuria Roldós (AEC) & Diana Garay (AMC) We were proud to host two mentorship sessions focused on storytelling through cinematography, led by two renowned Ibero-American directors of photography. Nuria Roldós, DoP and President of AEC (Spain), shared her creative process from script to set, emphasizing the importance of lighting, production design, and collaboration across departments to create a visually unified and emotionally resonant film. Diana Garay, DoP and Co-President of AMC (Mexico), discussed her work on period films and the importance of adapting cinematic language to the historical and geographical context of each story. Drawing from her career, she showed how lighting, color, and composition work together to transport audiences and enhance narrative impact. Participants had the opportunity to ask questions, share reflections, and apply what they learned in hands-on exercises using professional tools like the Sony Venice and other equipment provided by EFD Studios—bridging theory with real-world practice.     Ver esta publicación en Instagram   Una publicación compartida de EFD Studios CO (@efdstudiosco) Tech Showcase: Kino Flo’s Diva-Lux 4 & Celeb Ikon 6 As part of the technical programming, EFD Studios participated in a demonstration of Kino Flo Lighting Systems’ latest innovations: the Diva-Lux 4 and Celeb Ikon 6. Led by Luis Chávez, BDM & Ambassador for Latin America at Chauvet Cinema Group (Kino Flo & Litegear), the session offered an in-depth look at the features of each light. Diana Garay, DoP (AMC), also shared her experience using both models on professional sets. The Diva-Lux 4 reinvents a classic design with a more compact and durable structure, ideal for location shoots. It incorporates TrueMatch® RGBWW technology, delivers up to 4700 lux at 3 meters (5600K), and ensures precise color rendering (CRI/TLCI >95). With a color temperature range from 2700K to 6500K and modes that emulate tungsten and HMI, it integrates easily into workflows via DMX, Bluetooth, Lumen Radio, or manual controls. The Celeb Ikon 6 is designed for studios requiring powerful yet soft, even lighting. It features a 36-inch RGBWW panel with high output and accuracy (CRI/TLCI >96), intuitive camera presets, green/magenta adjustment, and full connectivity through DMX, RDM, Bluetooth, and CRMX. The session concluded with a hands-on demonstration where attendees could experience the lights' capabilities firsthand. A Collaborative and Technical Closing To conclude SIL 2025, EFD Studios Digital opened the doors of our Bogotá postproduction headquarters to welcome members of ADFC (Colombia), AMC (Mexico), AEC (Spain), and the Colombian Colorists Association for a private gathering designed to foster collaboration and strengthen community ties within the audiovisual industry. Guests toured our complete postproduction pipeline—from editing suites and color grading rooms to quality control stations and our Dolby Atmos-equipped screening room—spaces designed to support complex creative and technical workflows. Our team shared the philosophy behind our studio: an open, collaborative process tailored to the unique needs of each project.   Ver esta publicación en Instagram   Una publicación compartida de EFD Studios CO (@efdstudiosco) Beyond the tour, the event created space for conversation, connection, and a shared sense of purpose in a warm and horizontal setting. Reflections from SIL 2025 Our participation in Salón Internacional de la Luz 2025 was not only an opportunity to showcase technical capabilities, but also a chance to spark dialogue, share knowledge, and collaborate with those shaping the future of visual storytelling in Ibero-America. From exploring emerging technologies to reflecting on equity, narrative, and postproduction, each moment deepened our connections and helped us imagine new ways of working together. At EFD Studios, we remain committed to building a more collaborative, inclusive, and forward-thinking audiovisual industry. We believe in the power of spaces like SIL to generate progress—technically, creatively, and collectively.   Ver esta publicación en Instagram   Una publicación compartida de EFD Studios CO (@efdstudiosco)

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Vintage Glass: ‘Recuperando el Pasado’. A Masterclass on Rehousing and Cinematography at SIL 2025

As part of the 15th edition of the ‘Salón Internacional de la Luz’ (SIL 2025), the masterclass “Vintage Glass: Reclaiming the Past” took place: a highly technical and inspiring session led by cinematographer Serguei Saldívar, AMC, who shared his vast experience and passion for rehoused lenses, also known as Vintage Glass. Throughout the session, Saldívar guided attendees through a captivating journey into the history of these lenses, revealing how their unique character and timeless aesthetics continue to thrive in contemporary cinematography. Most of these optics originate from analog still photography or early cinema lenses, which are meticulously modified to suit modern digital cinema cameras. The rehousing process includes restoring internal mechanisms, adding industry-standard positive lock mounts, and integrating geared focus rings, all to enable their seamless use in professional productions. Beyond the technical transformation, Vintage Glass also reflects a highly curated artistic vision. Saldívar emphasized that his goal is to build a lens collection with absolute visual consistency. From wide angles to telephoto lenses, each piece must belong to the same optical family to ensure aesthetic cohesion across a film. “I want to shoot an entire film using Leica focal lengths… We have unique lenses like the 280mm, 188mm, 15–50mm macro, and 90mm. Plus, every lens in the Vintage Glass collection shares the same front diameter, which is incredibly helpful when working with lens-mounted accessories,” explained Saldívar. This initiative is not only driven by his technical expertise and curatorial eye, but also by a strategic collaboration with Georgina Terán, CEO of EFD Studios. With her deep knowledge of technology and extensive experience in cinematographic equipment, they are together building a lens collection tailored to serve the Latin American film industry. During the masterclass, attendees experienced firsthand how these lenses shape image texture, depth of field, and emotional tone. It was an invitation to see differently  to embrace imperfection as aesthetic value, and to recognize history as a living narrative tool. A masterclass that reminded us: the past doesn’t stay behind, it is reclaimed, reinvented, and reframed, one frame at a time.

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EFD Studios Digital Welcomes Cinematographers (ADFC, AEC, and AMC) and the Colombian Association of Colorists

As a special closing of the 2025 Salón Internacional de la Luz, EFD Studios Digital opened the doors of its post-production house in Bogotá to welcome distinguished cinematographers from the Colombian Association of Cinematographic Directors of Photography (ADFC), the Mexican Society of Cinematographers (AMC), and the Spanish Association of Cinematographers (AEC), along with members of the Colombian Association of Colorists, for an intimate and meaningful gathering. This space was designed for the exchange of perspectives, creative processes, and experiences around audiovisual storytelling. During the visit, guests had the opportunity to explore the full range of EFD Studios Digital’s technical capabilities: an open and collaborative post-production environment where cinematographers, colorists, editors, and clients come together to bring their projects to life. The tour included editing suites, color grading rooms, quality control areas, and a screening room equipped with Dolby Atmos sound, all designed to meet the technical, narrative, and aesthetic demands of the most ambitious productions. “This is a combination of technology and people... we are an image lab that supports audiovisual projects” shared Carlos Acero, Post-Production Operations Director at EFD Studios. This Open House was, above all, an opportunity to open our doors to the community that gives this space its true meaning. It was a gesture of closeness and appreciation toward those who play a vital role in our daily work—specifically, professionals in cinematography and color grading. “We took our time before inviting the industry to explore this facility, but we wanted to ensure this gathering with cinematographers and colorists would be a meaningful experience—after all, they are the reason we engage in this kind of post-production work,” said Carlos Acero. Beyond the technical tour, this gathering became a space for conversation and connection: colleagues exchanged experiences, ideas, food, and music in an atmosphere that reflected the collaborative spirit of EFD Studios. We believe in the power of these encounters to strengthen bonds, inspire new perspectives, and build an industry grounded in human connection. We will continue to open our doors, share our processes, and champion a post-production model driven by community, empowered by technology, and guided by collaboration.

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Gender diversity in Ibero-American cinematography: A conversation driven by EFD Studios

During the 15th edition of the ‘Salón Internacional de la Luz’ in Bogotá, a vital conversation took place for the Ibero-American film industry. Titled “Gender Diversity in Ibero-American Cinematography”, the panel presented by EFD Studios in collaboration with the Colombian Association of Cinematographic Directors of Photography (ADFC), brought together trailblazing women who have broken barriers in their respective countries. The panel featured Georgina Terán (CEO of EFD Studios), Nuria Roldós (President of the AEC, Spain), Diana Garay (Co-president of the AMC, Mexico), and Adriana Bernal (Director of Photography, ADFC and Vice President of IMAGO, Colombia), all pioneers in the field of cinematography. The conversation was moderated by Alexandra Falla, Director of the Colombian Film Heritage Foundation. Throughout the discussion, the panelists shared personal stories, professional lessons, and deep reflections on the ongoing challenges faced by women in technical leadership roles such as cinematography. From the constant need to prove themselves to the limited presence of female role models in the recent history of Ibero-American cinematography, the panel exposed both progress and persistent gaps. “We seek out scripts, made by women, to co-produce and to try to change the narrative through the projects we support. We will continue working hard: through education, practice, and content”, stated Georgina Terán, reaffirming the commitment to driving change from the production side. More than a diagnosis, the panel served as a call to action. The participants agreed that transforming the industry requires both public policies and everyday decisions on set. This includes integrating more women into technical crews and fostering more collaborative, kind, and equitable working environments. “We speak from a place of privilege. It's not our fault we made it here, but it is our responsibility to open doors”, said Diana Garay, emphasizing the importance of turning privilege into opportunity for others. At the same time, the panel underscored that the responsibility for change cannot rest solely on women: rethinking power dynamics, representation, and leadership in the audiovisual world must be a collective effort. The conversation not only shed light on the challenges that remain but also mapped out clear pathways for action: building diverse teams, amplifying role models, reimagining narratives, and committing to transforming the industry from within. As Adriana Bernal aptly noted: “Changes in behavior are what ultimately change societies.” At EFD Studios, we firmly believe that every conversation, every project, and every intentional decision can help build a more equitable and representative cinematic landscape for all.

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EFD Studios Announces the Largest Virtual Production Set in Europe and Unveils Training Initiatives in Mexico with Inna Payán and in Spain

This new set will be the largest on the European continent and will bring about a transformation in European audiovisual production. This set will not only boost technology, but also promote greener practices within the audiovisual industry. Circa 24, EFD Studios' training initiative in collaboration with Animal de Luz Films (Inna Payán), will promote film education in Mexico and develop talent in the industry. EFD Studios Academy has a new approach to Technical Training in Spain, offering training to young talent as well as providing updating training for working professionals. Madrid, October 3rd, 2024 – During Iberseries & Platino Industria, Georgina Terán, EFD Studios CEO, announced today the construction of the largest virtual production set in Europe, marking a milestone in the audiovisual industry. This innovative facility will have more than 2,000 m² of set space equipped with LED technology and state-of-the-art computer and processing chain. The set will be located in Boadilla del Monte, Madrid, offering creators an advanced working environment to explore new dimensions of creativity and production efficiency. The panel entitled “Virtual Production: A Game-Changer”, Georgina Terán (CEO of EFD Studios), Mauricio van Hasselt (VP On-Set Producer, Pixomondo), David Monguet (VP Producer, MO&MO Studio), Migue Amoedo (Director of Photography AEC), and Amaya Muruzábal (Showrunner and CEO of M Content), moderated by Ismael Issa (Director of Photography AEC), discussed the tremendous advantages and possibilities offered by this technology, as well as its impact on current productions. This set construction reinforces EFD Studios' dedication to the modernization of the audiovisual industry in Europe. This cutting-edge space will not only attract major international productions but will also help to optimize resources and reduce environmental impact, consolidating Spain as a benchmark in European film production. Commitment to the Training and Development of Local Talent in Mexico and Spain EFD Studios also reaffirmed its commitment to the training and development of local talent through two important initiatives announced during a cocktail party that took place after the panel: CIRCA 24: In collaboration with Animal de Luz Films and its director Inna Payán, Circa 24 seeks to foster film training in Mexico, providing new opportunities for emerging talent and strengthening the country's audiovisual industry. Circa 24 is a school specializing in professional training in film, television and performing arts, distinguished by its multidisciplinary approach. Its methodology combines theory and practice, allowing students to integrate into both the creative and technical areas of the audiovisual industry. The programs cover areas such as directing, scriptwriting, production, acting, as well as a wide range of technical specialties, providing a complete and updated training that promotes a creative community focused on all areas of the audiovisual industry. Learn more about it here: https://circa24.mx/ EFD STUDIOS ACADEMY: EFD Studios Academy in Spain will focus its efforts on technical training, offering programs designed for both young talents and working professionals. In this vocational school, highly qualified professionals will be trained with a comprehensive approach in the technical and specialized areas most in demand at present. The audiovisual sector has traditionally relied on the transmission of knowledge, which is currently insufficient given the accelerated growth of the industry at a national and international level. With the increasing demand for highly qualified professionals, driven by streaming platforms and tax incentives, EFD Studios is standing as a recognized and trusted expert in the industry. Its approach combines practical training, rigor and specialization, responding to the opportunities offered by an ever-expanding industry. Learning will be focused on technical areas that have been historically underserved in the academic offerings, aiming to be a genuine steppingstone to the professional arena and add value to the audiovisual industry. EFD Studios Academy's mission is to unite training and industry in a single process, ensuring that trained professionals have the required skills to excel and meet the demands of the market. Innovation and Sustainability Impact These initiatives not only drive technological innovation in the audiovisual production, but also reflect EFD Studios' commitment to sustainability and social responsibility, contributing to the growth of a stronger and more diverse film ecosystem. About Animal de Luz Animal de Luz is the production company headed by Inna Payán, Mexican producer with more than 20 years of experience in the audiovisual industry, with over 30 films produced and 6 TV series. Since 2011, the company has positioned itself as one of the leading Mexican film production companies. Inna actively participates in the Mexican Association of Independent Producers, is the Vice President of the Mexican Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, and is member of The Academy. Her filmography includes La Jaula de Oro (Dir. Diego Quemada-Diez), winner of 81 international awards, including Un Certain Regard at the 2013 Cannes Film Festival; La Libertad del Diablo (Dir. Everardo González), winner of the Amnesty International Film Prize at the 2017 Berlin International Film Festival; Todos están muertos (Dir. Beatriz Sanchis), starring Elena Anaya; and Los Lobos (Dir. Samuel Kishi), winner of the Generation KPlus Grand Prix at the 2020 Berlin International Film Festival. EFD Studios at Iberseries & Platino Industria 2024 – A Visual Journey.

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EFD Studios at Iberseries & Platino Industria 2024 – A Visual Journey

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“La Máquina”: The new series that brings together the duo of Diego Luna and Gael García Bernal once again, in collaboration with EFD Studios

Disney+ is set to exclusively premiere La Máquina, a new series that marks the reunion of Mexican actors Diego Luna (Andor, Narcos: Mexico, Rogue One: A Star Wars Story) and Gael García Bernal (Old, Mozart in the Jungle, The Motorcycle Diaries) as both producers and protagonists, with technical support from EFD Studios. Luna and García Bernal’s relationship solidified when they both rose to stardom with Y Tu Mamá También (2001), directed by Alfonso Cuarón. This successful production, which also used equipment from EFD Studios, launched them to international fame. Beyond their on-screen connection, the two founded the production company La Corriente del Golfo, establishing themselves as undisputed leaders in Latin American cinema. Like their first major success together, this new project also benefits from the technical expertise of EFD Studios, closing a collaborative circle that spans over two decades. La Máquina, produced by Searchlight Television for Hulu and brought to life by La Corriente del Golfo, features the collaboration of ESPN KNOCKOUT. The cinematography is handled by Emiliano Villanueva, AMC (A Cop Movie, The Thin Yellow Line, Lu's Dream). For this production, EFD Studios deployed state-of-the-art technology, utilizing Alexa 35 cameras with Hawk V-Lite lenses and a sophisticated lighting system featuring SkyPanels and Asteras. This technical partnership ensures a top-tier visual experience. La Máquina tells the story of a boxer at the end of his career, played by Gael García Bernal. With limited opportunities ahead, his shrewd manager, portrayed by Diego Luna, secures him one last chance to fight for the title. Marco Ramírez, known for his work on Daredevil, serves as showrunner, while the series is directed by Gabriel Ripstein, acclaimed for films like 600 Miles and An Unknown Enemy. Gerardo Gatica, Leandro Halperin, and Adam Fishbach also join as producers. This series promises to be one of the most anticipated of the year, combining renowned talent with an adrenaline-filled, emotional story set in the world of boxing. La Máquina | Official Trailer | Disney+  La Máquina premieres exclusively on Disney+ on October 9, with a total of six episodes.

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Pedro Páramo: A Cinematic Adaptation Directed by Rodrigo Prieto with EFD Studios’ Equipment

The celebrated novel by Mexican author Juan Rulfo, first published in 1955, is being brought to the big screen under the direction of Rodrigo Prieto, ASC, AMC. Known for his work on Barbie, The Wolf of Wall Street, and Argo, Prieto. The screenplay is adapted by Mateo Gil (Vanilla Sky, Agora, Realive). The film stars Manuel García-Rulfo (The Magnificent Seven, Murder on the Orient Express) as Pedro Páramo and Tenoch Huerta (Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, The Forever Purge) as Juan Preciado. Rodrigo Prieto, who’s not only directing but also overseeing the cinematography, relied on cutting-edge equipment from EFD Studios to achieve his vision. For this production EFD Studios provided mobile lighting and grip equipment, ARRI’s M-series lights, SkyPanels, power generators, and a Fisher Dolly 11. These advanced tools were essential in capturing the high cinematic quality visible in the film's early images. The plot follows Juan Preciado (played by Huerta), who embarks on a journey to find the father he never knew, Pedro Páramo. However, upon arriving in the town of Comala, he encounters only ghostly memories of a place long dominated by the shadow of his father.  Pedro Páramo is produced by Redrum and will premiere on November 6, 2024, exclusively on Netflix.

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