• Must be at least 21 years of age
• Must be available to attend all four days of the workshop— including evenings. No exceptions.
• All participants must have housing nearby and must have transportation to and from campus.
• All applicants must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents (with Permanent Resident Card).
• All participants are required to maintain up-to-date health insurance through the course of the program.

AFI follows a comprehensive review process whereby all applications are evaluated by a team of working cinematographers, AFI Faculty and AFI Alumni. Up to 20 participants will ultimately be selected to participate.

Successful candidates will demonstrate a passion for filmmaking in general, strong dedication to the craft of cinematography in particular, and a demonstrated ability to lead and collaborate in the filmmaking environment. We are also looking for leadership potential in those candidates committed to learning and advancing inclusive culture, fostering diverse communities and ethical practices within their own artistic endeavors and our industry at large.

The AFI Conservatory is committed to training within a culture where self-reflection, honesty and accountability are practiced and to expanding opportunities for promising filmmakers whose voices might otherwise go unheard.

The submissions period for applications begins on Friday, March 20 and closes on Thursday, April 10 at 11:59 p.m. PT. Applicants will be notified of status late April.

Please submit the following materials with your application.

• Video Introduction – a filmed introduction of yourself and why you are interested in the CIW program (1-2min)
• Statement of Interest — a brief description of your interest in cinematography (450-word limit).
• Résumé – a CV detailing your related work and education. Please include two references of people who know your work and can speak to your character.
• Work Sample (Required) — this is your opportunity to show us your point of view as a visual storyteller. Submit either a completed project or a reel on which you are credited as the cinematographer.
• Additional Work Sample (Not Required) – submit either an additional completed project or a reel on which you are credited as the cinematographer OR you may also submit a portfolio of your photography or fine art as a link.
• $50 application fee, used to support our rigorous admission process. Fee assistance can be provided for those with financial hardships.
• Please contact ciw@afi.edu for more information.