The ASC Master Class is an intensive
five-day seminar taught in Los Angeles
by some of the finest directors
of photography in the world.

Designed for cinematography students with an intermediate-to-advanced skill set, the ASC Master Class incorporates practical, hands-on demonstrations of lighting and camera techniques with essential instruction in current workflow practices and informed analysis of feature films that are relevant to the coursework.

Enrolling in the ASC Master Class will enable you to hone your craft while making valuable professional connections that can jump-start your career. Prominent Society members and associates serve as instructors during the five-day course, offering invaluable insights not only on the creative aspects of the cinematographer’s profession, but on business-related topics as well. Subjects covered in every class include:

• Lighting and camera techniques for both narrative and commercial projects

• Seamlessly incorporating visual effects into live-action footage

• Fine-tuning your projects in postproduction

• Making the right connections to open new doors and advance your career

• Tactfully handling job politics, both on and off the set

• Sourcing experienced, industry-savvy mentors

• Finding the right agent and/or manager to promote your work

Specialized Instruction

Some of the curriculum varies, depending on the instructor’s area of expertise. Specialized instruction might cover such subjects as commercial product lighting or greenscreen cinematography, for example.

Instruction takes place at the ASC Clubhouse in Hollywood and at nearby production and postproduction facilities. All necessary equipment is provided.

Enrollment in each ASC Master Class is limited to 24. Applicants must submit a current résumé in order to be considered.

Here’s a full report on a recent class, held in May of 2017.

Here’s a full report on a session, held in November of 2018, that focused on shooting motion-picture film.

The next ASC Master Class sessions in
2019 will be held on: 

May 18-19 (2-day, weekend seminar; Brooklyn, NY)
June 17-21 (Hollywood)
September 9-13 (Hollywood)
October 21-25 (Hollywood)