(L-R): Host Jaz Estorninos with broadcast journalist Atom Araullo, wedding photographer Jaja Samaniego, and Leica brand manager Antonni Cuesta were the first to share their insights on photography at the opening session of the Xiaomi 14T Series Masterclass
Aspiring young Filipino content creators and storytellers got much-needed advice and insights from some of the country’s top creatives at the Xiaomi 14T Series Masterclass held last October 26 and 27 at ONE Ayala, Makati.
The Xiaomi 14T Series Masterclass also exhibited captivating photos taken by the speakers using the phone’s Leica-engineered camera setup
The smartphone brand brought together luminaries such as journalist Atom Araullo, actresses and creators Gabbi Garcia and Janina Vela, and more to share their expertise on photography and various other creative fields.
Director and photographers Charlon Serrano and Melvin Anore answer questions from the attendees.
The Xiaomi 14T Series Masterclass also showcased the impressive mobile photography capabilities of the new Xiaomi 14T Series through a photo exhibit. The new premium smartphone line has a camera setup powered by photography technology from renowned camera manufacturer Leica, which helps give photos taken on the 14T Series the maker’s distinct and iconic aesthetic.
Actress and Xiaomi ambassador Gabbi Garcia shared her own insights and personal experiences on developing a unique visual identity in content on the second day of the Masterclass
“With the Xiaomi 14T Series Masterclass, we at Xiaomi Philippines strengthen our commitment to help nurture the creativity and expression of Filipinos, especially with the advent of equipment and resources that help more people unlock their inner artist and storyteller,” said Tomi Adrias, Head of Marketing at Xiaomi Philippines.
Gabbi Garcia and content creator Janina Vela field questions from the attendees.
Accessing a wealth of creative knowledge at the Xiaomi 14T Series Masterclass
The powerhouse lineup of guest speakers at the Xiaomi 14T Series Masterclass proved to be a trove of valuable and essential insights for Filipino creatives present.
Each of the speakers shared easy-to-understand tips that allow most people to become their best selves as creatives and content creators with the tools they already have at hand.
“Everybody can be visual storytellers, and all of us understand the visual medium very well,” said Araullo, who spoke on the art of storytelling and his journey as a photojournalist that captures the truth of the world around us.
He credits the Xiaomi 14T Series for being not only a versatile smartphone that has a clear and stunning camera rivaling traditional photography equipment, but also being a device that helps with subjects’ inhibitions.
“Normally, people get shy and intimidated when they see someone take out a bulky camera, but they’re less self-conscious when it’s a phone camera,” Araullo shares. “That makes the Xiaomi 14T Series an even better tool for capturing real moments.”
Wedding photographer Jaja Samaniego shared crucial tips on how to shoot soulful portraits, which often make up some of the most compelling photos. Simple yet essential tricks such as making a subject move, getting up close, and using natural light — all of which can be summed up as shooting with intention — can go a long way towards better pictures.
“We’re very lucky that we have really advanced technology with the Xiaomi 14T Series, and you don’t have to worry about the technical aspect of photography — you really have to shoot with intention,” said Samaniego.
“Capturing portraits is not just a photo, it’s a connection you make with your subject.”
With so many insights, advice, and knowledge shared by all the guest speakers across both days of the Xiaomi 14T Series Masterclass, Filipino creatives definitely came away better, more skilled, and ready to make art by capturing the world around them.
