Launching the next generation of filmmakers to create, innovate, and leave a lasting impact on the industry.
The Lens On Emerging Talent Film Fellowship offers emerging filmmakers a unique opportunity to collaborate with seasoned industry professionals in producing a high-quality short film from script to screen in just 9 weeks.
The program is dedicated to supporting the creative vision of BIPOC filmmakers, especially HBCU graduates, while introducing the next generation of diverse storytellers to Hollywood through this immersive program.
WHO ARE WE LOOKING FOR?
The cohort will consist of a writer/director, cinematographer, production designer, costume designer, editor, and producers.
Submissions will be accepted by invitation only and will be open to emerging filmmakers with demonstrated experience and existing skills in the craft.
We seek artists who have already developed a strong foundation in filmmaking—whether through completed projects, formal training, or industry experience—and are ready to take their work to the next level.
Fellows will be selected based on the strength of their portfolio, artistic vision, and potential for growth. This program is for those who are serious about their craft and eager to collaborate in a professional, immersive environment.
WHAT TO EXPECT
- Fellows will walk away with a finished and polished professional film product that can be utilized as a work sample or included in a film portfolio.
- Fellows will also gain access and exposure to industry professionals and networking opportunities that can open doors to future film partnerships and employment opportunities.
- Program fellows will receive a stipend and acquire film experience through educational workshops, mentorships from industry professionals, and hands on training.
- Fellows must be able to commit to a minimum of 15 hours per week for educational workshops and office hours. These hours will be set by the program directors and are not flexible.
- Through our Final Showcase, fellows will receive an opportunity to screen their polished film project at an industry event.
WHO IS ELIGIBLE?
- Applicants must be at least 18 years old by the start of the program and eligible to work in the United States.
- Applicants must be based in Los Angeles or willing to relocate for the duration of the program.
- Applicants must have graduated from an accredited college / university before June 1.
See What Past Fellows Have Created
SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS
Applicants must submit a complete application that includes:
- Two short-answer written questions
- How do you approach storytelling in your projects, and what influences shape your creative process?
- Describe your most recent project and your role in its creation, development, and execution.
- One short-answer Video question
- What is your long-term vision for your career in the film industry, and how do you see this fellowship supporting those goals?
- Resume
- Biography
- Two past work samples
- For the Writer/Director Role – An original short film script written by applicant
– maximum of 10 pages
APPLICATIONS CLOSE
April 28, 2025
at 11:59pm PT
THE SELECTION PROCESS
Once submissions are received, the selection committee will carefully review each applicant’s portfolio, artistic vision, and experience to determine the best candidates for the fellowship. Shortlisted applicants will be invited to an interview as the final stage of the selection process. Final selections will be made based on demonstrated skill, originality, potential for growth within the program, and their interview performance.
Finalist will be notified by the first week of May.
ABOUT THE PROGRAM
The Program will run from June 2 – August 2.
Participants will be expected to be in Los Angeles for the duration of the fellowship.
All fellows, regardless of their discipline, are required to attend every workshop to gain a broad understanding of the entire filmmaking process. We believe it is important for film crew members to understand each other’s roles because filmmaking is a highly collaborative process.
Week 1 – Focus: Developing Story
Week 2 – Focus: Building Characters and Worlds
Week 3 – Focus: Visual Storytelling
Week 4 – Focus: Getting Technical
Week 5 – Focus: Tone and Aesthetic
Week 6 – Focus: Set Life and Working with Actors – Production Begins
Week 7 – 9 Post Production
Friday August 1st – Student Showcase
Meet a few of our Past
Industry Mentors
JAMES BLAND
Writer, Director & Actor
NYREE NEIL
Actor, Director & Producer
DONALD A. MORGAN
Emmy Award Winning Cinematographer