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CFC & CSC Introduce Groundbreaking Cinematography Intensive for Female-Identifying Artisans

The Canadian Film Centre and Canadian Society of Cinematographers are pleased to launch a Cinematography Intensive, welcoming five female-identifying directors of photography for a comprehensive two-week workshop in collaboration with the 2024 Norman Jewison Film Program residents. This intensive is geared towards helping DPs elevate their narrative storytelling, teamwork and technical skills while also building their professional network. With support from the Paul Bronfman Family Foundation, talented cinematographers from Ontario, Quebec, and British Columbia will begin the Cinematography Intensive on August 12.

The DPs will take part in a series of workshops and meetings led by mentors Zoe Dirse csc and Arthur Cooper csc. They will also be working collaboratively with CFC directors, producers, writers and editors to prepare and shoot several productions as they continue to refine their visual approach. Following the two-week intensive and over the next month, the DPs will take part in a series of post sessions that will see them leave the intensive with high-quality, original material for their reels.

“We’re proud to help launch this important training program with the CFC and CSC to foster emerging talent with tools and opportunities needed to excel in their craft,” said Paul Bronfman, CFC Board Member. ”We hope these cinematographers will feel empowered to push boundaries and elevate their storytelling skills, ultimately enriching the Canadian film/tv industry.”

“I find this a timely and inspiring initiative that will elevate the participants’ already impressive filmmaking skills and hopefully encourage greater female participation in the industry,” said Dirse, who is also president. ”I am looking forward to seeing what these unique collaborations produce.”

“We are thrilled to be working with the CSC and to be welcoming these talented artists into the CFC community,” said Kathryn Emslie, Executive Lead, Programs, CFC. ”This is the beginning of what we hope will be a long-term partnership celebrating the important role cinematographers play in the storytelling process. We’re so grateful for the generous support of the Paul Bronfman Family Foundation to help elevate these artists who are shaping the future of cinema.”

The Cinematography Intensive also receives vital support through in-kind services and equipment from Keslow Camera Toronto, Urban Post and Sunbelt Rentals.