The American Film Institute believes in the power of filmmakers to shape culture through storytelling. As America’s leading filmmaker training program, the AFI Conservatory is committed to creating accessible pathways to career opportunities for emerging storytellers to thrive in visual storytelling.
The AFI Cinematography Intensive Workshop (CIW) creates meaningful access to the cinematography industry and breaks down barriers that often prevent emerging artists from advancing their careers.
CIW is a tuition-free, four-day workshop that brings together 12-14 emerging cinematographers committed to their journey toward a professional career as cinematographers, who have some on-set experience working in the field and are looking for additional training to help them advance in their education, craft and career.
Core components of the program include hands-on master classes in the fundamentals of cinematography, exposure to professional tools and workflows, and critical analysis of work by established cinematographers. Participants gain practical skills and industry insight to support their continued professional growth, culminating in the production of a 1–2 minute narrative short film for their portfolio.



