Jakarta, ThedailyID — A film scene is shaped by more than acting and dialogue. Camera choices, lenses, lighting, and image composition all influence how a story reaches its audience. Behind these visual decisions is a process known as a look test.
The Indonesia Cinematographers Society (ICS) explored this process during ICS Talks 2026, themed “The Art of Look Test in Film.” The event was part of the Road to JAFF Market 2026 Powered by Amar Bank series and took place at the Jakarta Institute of the Arts (IKJ). It brought together film professionals and young people interested in cinematography.
ICS President Agni Ariatama explained that cinematographers do more than handle the technical aspects of filming. They also translate scripts into audiovisual experiences.
“A screenplay needs to be translated into an audiovisual form, and this is where cinematographers play a role in determining how the story is brought to life visually,” Agni said.
The discussion featured cinematographers Roy Lolang and Arief Pribadi, who shared practical insights through case studies and visual breakdowns of films they had worked on. Their presentations covered camera and lens choices, lighting techniques, and other elements that shape a film’s final appearance.
Roy emphasized the importance of knowledge-sharing activities for young filmmakers.
“Clearly, this event is very interesting. We can share our experiences with people who are passionate about cinematography. As speakers, we also have perspectives that may help expand their knowledge,” he said.
Arief also welcomed the enthusiasm shown by young participants. He hopes more opportunities will emerge for professionals to exchange knowledge and experience. He believes cinematography deserves recognition as a discipline in its own right, rather than merely a profession.
He added that support from various parties is essential to expanding access to film education. Sponsors, including Amar Bank through JAFF Market, can help bring cinematography knowledge to a wider generation of aspiring filmmakers.
“As an association or professional community, we need support from external parties to develop Indonesian cinematography and its related disciplines so we can compete internationally. Without support from sponsors, JAFF Market, and Amar Bank, this knowledge would simply stop here,” Arief said.
Beyond establishing a film’s visual identity, a look test allows creative teams to evaluate their visual approach before filming begins. It also helps identify equipment requirements and the needs of different visual departments. This process ensures that artistic decisions align with technical capabilities and production budgets.
Financial Technology with a Nurturing Approach
Amar Bank Marketing Head Rosalinda Hoesin said support for creative professionals should also address their financial needs. Organized financial management can help film workers build a financial track record, which may become one of the considerations for banks when assessing customer needs and access to financial services.
“Technology delivers greater benefits when it is developed around users’ needs. Amar Bank wants to understand how cinematographers work, manage projects, and handle their financial requirements. This understanding is important so that technology and financial services become more relevant to the characteristics of creative professions,” Rosalinda explained.
Through its collaboration with ICS, Amar Bank is promoting a nurturing approach to strengthen cinematographers’ financial readiness. The initiative focuses on cash flow management, transaction records, and building a financial track record to help creative professionals improve their bankability.
About the Featured Cinematographers
Roy Lolang began his career through films such as Kuldesak and Ada Apa Dengan Cinta? His cinematography credits also include Toba Dreams, Ancika, and Perang Kota, as well as the more recent Djamin Setia Selamanya.
Arief Pribadi has worked as a cinematographer on several Indonesian films, including Ruang, Lima Elang, Langit Ke-7, Sanubari Jakarta, and Surat Untuk Masa Mudaku. His upcoming project is Rahasia.
