Learn Cinematography and Visual Storytelling at NYFA
In our rigorous 1-Year Cinematography Program, aspiring Cinematographers learn how to apply consistency to their creative work, building up their discipline and skillset in the visual arts. Throughout their time at our Cinematography School, students will practice and develop basic lighting, composition, color theory, film, digital, and camera movement techniques through hands-on projects. Students also study general film craft, editing, color correction, and still photography.
During this process, students gain experience using 16 and 35mm film and digital cameras and industry-standard equipment, establishing a reel that reflects their own unique and narrative style. The program is a great opportunity for students to enhance their visual communication skills and begin or continue their journey as a visual storyteller. Upon graduation, students will earn a college credit-bearing Certificate.
Faculty Highlights
Curriculum
The 1-Year Cinematography Program curriculum includes:
- Instruction and critique from award-winning cinematography faculty actively working in the field
- Experience on set as a Director and Cinematographer, as well as various roles on classmates’ films such as roles of Gaffer, Key Grip, Camera Assistant, and Camera Operator
- Consistent access to state-of-the-art camera systems, sound, and lighting equipment
- Guest lectures with film industry leaders, such as Cinematographers, Directors, Actors, Producers, and more
To learn more, refer to NYFA’s Course Catalogs or request more information.
This program is a full-time, two-semester, conservatory-based program. International students can apply for an OPT and have the right to a one-year work visa in the US after completing the one-year program. Upon graduation, students will earn a college credit-bearing Certificate. Qualified students who complete the 1-Year Certificate may also apply to have their coursework be accepted for advanced standing in the MFA in Cinematography.
During this one-year program of study, students will complete compelling projects such as classic Mise-En- Scène and Continuity projects, as well as a Capstone film. By the end of the program, students will have a professional cinematography showreel that highlights their best work. To learn more, visit the cinematography projects page.
Students may enroll in the one-year program at our NYFA New York or Los Angeles campuses. While both campuses follow a similar curriculum, every NYFA location will provide a unique experience.
NYFA New York
17 Battery Place
New York, NY 10004 NYFA Los Angeles
3300 W Riverside Drive
Burbank, CA 91505
17 Battery Place
New York, NY 10004 NYFA Los Angeles
3300 W Riverside Drive
Burbank, CA 91505
1-Year Cinematography Program
| Location | Program Start Date and End Date | Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| New York City | August, 2026 – August, 2027 | Fall 2026 Semester The program semesters tuition and duration is listed below. In addition to tuition please review the programs associated feesTuition:$19,500 Per Semester Program Fee:$2,500 Per Semester Program Duration: Spring 2026 (January start): 2 SemestersFall 2026 (August start): 3 Semesters |
| Los Angeles | January, 2026 – August, 2026 August, 2026 – August, 2027 | Spring 2026 Semester The program semesters tuition and duration is listed below. In addition to tuition please review the programs associated feesTuition:$24,007 Per Semester Program Fee:$2,526 Per Semester Program Duration: Spring 2026 (January start): 2 SemestersFall 2026 (August start): 3 Semesters Fall 2026 Semester The program semesters tuition and duration is listed below. In addition to tuition please review the programs associated feesTuition:$19,500 Per Semester Program Fee:$2,500 Per Semester Program Duration: Spring 2026 (January start): 2 SemestersFall 2026 (August start): 3 Semesters |
*Additional Fees:
Spring 2026 – Summer 2027
| Technology Fee: | $80 Per Semester |
| Wellness Services & Programming Fee: | $145 Per Semester |
| Activity Fee: | $125 per semester |
| Orientation Fee: (Spring 2026: January 5th – January 9th) |
Domestic Students: $150 International Students: $200 |
| Graduation Fee: | $100 |
| International Student Fee: | $200 for the first semester, $120 each subsequent semester |
Please note: Equipment, curriculum, and projects are subject to change and may vary depending on location. Students should consult the most recently published campus catalog for the most up-to-date curriculum.