Hi, I am Ciara Foran, a filmmaker and photographer from Killarney, Co. Kerry. I have been passionate about filmmaking from a young age, having started editing as a hobby at age 12. Through achieving my first-class honours degree in Film and Screen Media at UCC, I gained a wider interest in the production side of filmmaking, particularly directing and camera work.
After creating several documentaries and short fiction pieces, I decided to complete a portrait photography course in order to hone my visual storytelling skills and master the art of lighting and composition. Working as the official photographer for Litreacha, a monthly open mic night in Cork City which promotes the use of the Irish language, I gained an interest in telling stories as Gaeilge.
I recently completed a Higher Diploma in TV & Media Production with Nemeton TV through the medium of the Irish language. I have now written two short fiction films as Gaeilge and hope to make many more.
I am very organised, planning everything in the pre-production stage. I block every scene, storyboard every frame, create shot lists, and rehearse actions with the actors. David Lynch and Andrei Tarkovsky are some of my greatest influences.
Writer
I have studied screenwriting at an undergraduate and postgraduate level. I have written (and directed) several short drama films, both in English and Irish. I am influenced by Celine Sciamma’s screenwriting method.
Producer
I have produced both fiction and documentary films. I am proficient in writing consent forms, production planning, location sourcing, and digital marketing. I have studied media law at a postgraduate level.
Editor
Editing is second nature to me, having begun editing as a hobby at age 10. I am trained in Adobe Premiere Pro, DaVinci Resolve, Final Cut Pro, & Sony Vegas Pro. In the pre-production phase, I storyboard based on how I visualise the images to look in the edit.
Director of Photography
From my background in photography, I am proficient in composition and lighting. I work with cinema cameras, camcorders, and DSLRs. I provide my own equipment. I feel influenced by Andreas Feininger’s photographic method: explore, isolate, organise.
Photographer
I have studied portrait and general photography at an undergraduate level. I work with digital and film. I provide my own camera, lights, and backdrops. The work of Nan Goldin is what first got me interested in photography.
Showreel
A focused body of film and visual storytelling
A selection of recent work across narrative, documentary, and photography, reflecting a considered and hands-on approach to filmmaking.
A selection of feedback from recent collaborators and clients.
Ciara is a highly talented filmmaker who is skilled in scriptwriting, directing and editing. Her creative eye and technical expertise combine to make her an outstanding camerawoman.
Moira Sweeney
Course Director Nemeton TV
Ciara has been the photographer for Litreacha since October 2024. Her eye for detail, technical knowledge, and creative flair are evident throughout her work, always delivering a spectacular finished product.
Em Egan Reeve
Founder & Host Litreacha
Do you have a project in mind or would you like to find out more?
If you’d like to discuss a project or learn more about my work, feel free to get in touch.