The 43rd Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF) turned into a vibrant learning hub for content creators, as they gathered to explore the art of iPhone photography under the guidance of renowned content creator Muhammad Alchaar. His workshop, “Mastering iPhone Photography: From Basics to Professional Level”, drew enthusiastic participants of all ages, eager to elevate their skills and produce high-quality visuals with just their iPhones.
Muhammad Alchaar, a Syrian content creator with over 231,000 followers on Instagram (@chaar.mo) and a decade of experience in the UAE, shared practical insights and professional techniques for shooting stunning images. Throughout the session, Alchaar emphasised fundamentals like lens cleaning, a simple yet crucial step for achieving clear images. He also introduced the audience to iPhone’s cinematic mode, illustrating how it allows users to capture professional-quality shots with ease.
“Lighting is everything in photography,” Alchaar explained, underscoring how light shapes the mood and impact of an image. “Mastering light can elevate your photos dramatically, and for videos, having quality audio is just as essential.” Alchaar offered tips on creating impactful compositions and using iPhone’s zoom features, like the .05 wide-angle lens, to capture complex scenes such as tall buildings like the Burj Khalifa.
The workshop also covered advanced editing techniques, helping participants refine images by enhancing colour tones, sharpening details, and using tools to create a polished final result. Many attendees found these insights invaluable, with 21-year-old photographer Salah Uddin from Syria stating, “I’ve learned how to apply the rule of thirds and creatively use light and shadow. This workshop has been a fantastic learning experience.”
Eleven-year-old Lara Mohammed also shared her excitement: “I’ve always enjoyed taking photos, but now I know how to make them look even better. I can’t wait to try out these tips!” She highlighted the accessibility of the workshop, which provided valuable insights for all ages and skill levels.
For Adel Qabaweh, a 20-year-old content creator focused on lifestyle and car photography, the workshop presented fresh ideas for his craft. “I usually work with a DSLR, but today’s tips on iPhone editing and cinematic mode have shown me new ways to make my content stand out,” he noted.