Letter from the Founders
When we founded Cinematography for Actors in late 2022, it was because we saw a gap. Independent filmmakers were navigating a landscape with limited opportunities, fragmented support, and little transparency between what happened above and below the line. We knew that if we wanted to change the industry, we had to build something that offered more than instruction.
This past year marked a turning point. What began as an idea between friends grew into a full ecosystem of programs and partnerships. We helped provide alternative financing to more than 60 projects. We launched the Indiewood Screenwriting Fund to give writers direct access to mentorship. Our film challenge expanded to over 100 films across 17 countries in its first complete year. We welcomed The Reel Champions mentorship program, pairing emerging filmmakers with industry executives for one-to-one career development.
Over the past three years, CFA has evolved into a talent incubation pipeline that supports filmmakers from their earliest ideas through development, production, post, and distribution. Our goal is to be a resource at every stage as partners in the careers of our community.
As we look ahead, we’re building new structures to deepen access, expand mentorship, and create clearer bridges from idea to impact. What continues to move us most is the way filmmakers support one another.
We created this catalog as a reflection of where we’ve come and the momentum we’re building together. As you look through the metrics, programs, and stories in these pages, we hope you feel the same sense of pride and possibility that drives our work every day.
CFA is constantly growing, and that growth is only possible because of supporters like you. If you feel inspired to help us continue this mission, whether by sharing our work, or making a contribution, we’re grateful for your support.
Thank you for growing with us and standing with independent filmmakers!
Indeana Underhill & Haeleigh Royall
Founders, CFA Institute
Our Community Impact
We’re excited to share the incredible growth and impact our community has made over the past years. Since our founding, we’ve remained committed to empowering underrepresented filmmakers and actors through comprehensive education and community-building opportunities.
As we continue to grow, we invite you to join us in supporting the next generation of storytellers. Whether through involvement in our programs or donations, together we can break barriers and build a more inclusive film industry.
1,500,000 impressions
Our community continues to grow with 1,500,000 total impressions across platforms — a leap forward from last year’s 460,000 — reflecting the momentum of filmmakers and actors engaging with our educational resources.
69 countries, 589 cities
We are now connecting with creatives in 69 countries and 589 cities, expanding the accessibility of our resources and strengthening our international filmmaking network.
40+ Sponsors, Brands, and Partners
We’re supported by 40+ sponsors and partners who help us strengthen the creative ecosystem for emerging filmmakers. Their collaboration powers our workshops, challenges, and community initiatives—providing tools, technology, and opportunities that expand what’s possible for our participants. From industry leaders to mission-aligned organizations, each partnership helps us shape a more accessible, innovative, and connected filmmaking community.
3,000 filmmakers and actors
More than 3,000 filmmakers and actors reached out this year about workshops, fiscal sponsorship, programs, and events — a clear sign of growing demand for community-centered education
85 Films Made
(through our film challenge)
Facilitated the creation of 85 short films during our CFA Quarterly Film Challenge, showcasing the power of collaboration and creativity within our community.
59,594 website visits
Across video platforms, we’ve reached 59,594 views, helping our community learn through behind-the-scenes insights, educational content, and filmmaker stories.
Have a story to tell? We want to hear how Cinematography for Actors has made a difference in your journey.
Share How CFA Impacted You
CFA is proud to be a partner of industry-leading communities, vendors & festivals. Our partners support us in helping filmmakers bridge the gap between the technical, creative & practical areas of our industry.
Interested in joining forces with CFA to make a difference? Let’s collaborate and grow together!
