If you follow Jonathan Canlas anywhere on the net and he is everywhere - just google him - you get a pretty good idea about the man and what he represents. So when I attended his Australian FIND (Film Is Not Dead) Workshop in Melbourne it was amazing and refreshing how much he actually WAS what I was expecting. The internet can help people create a persona they are not or what they want others to believe they are - not with Jonathan Canlas. All have said it before - as he does himself - he is an open book, you can ask him anything. More importantly he is not selling anything - he is sharing his knowledge and the joy and pure pleasure of shooting FILM.
I learnt and studied with film and now have come full circle and FIND came at the perfect time to re-establish my confidence shooting film again - as good as what digital is there are so many negatives (for me personally). After 3 days Jon totally endeared himself to everyone by being genuine, 100% real and knowing his stuff (and has the best giggle - he loves to laugh). He implores you to shoot film and wants you to succeed. And it doesn’t end when the workshop is over - the FIND community is incredible and growing. So many memories from just 3 days - 3 AMAZING DAYS with a truly inspired teacher (he educates), his hilarious side-kick Tavis (Tsauce to his fans) and fabulous fellow attendees. He would kill me for calling him a Legend (though I do think his work is divine) I refer more in terms of his approach, passion and committed path to inspire and educate people about film as well as going back to the basics - technical stuff like exposures, seeing the light, knowing how to use your camera on manual. Seriously one of the most positive & - time will tell - pivotal moments for my business. Definitely my best investment to date both financially and for the direction of my image making. If you get a chance to attend one of his workshops - DO IT. If you are interested in everything you need to know to shoot film come back tomorrow - there is some FIND magic about to happen care of Mr Canlas.
Thanks Jon - seriously one-of-a-kind in the best possible way - there is no-one like you!!!!!!!
On a personal note Jon connects with people on another level as well - because of his overt love and adoration of his family - his family is paramount - for me this is testament to a great human being.
