About Directing Mastery Academy

Discover our mission, history, experienced team, and state-of-the-art facilities.

Our Mission

Team working together collaboratively on set, reviewing shot composition.

At Directing Mastery Academy, our mission is to empower aspiring filmmakers with the knowledge, skills, and artistic vision to excel in the dynamic world of film and television. We are committed to providing a comprehensive and immersive educational experience that fosters creativity, collaboration, and technical expertise. Our goal is to cultivate the next generation of innovative and impactful directors who will shape the future of cinematic storytelling.

We strive to create a supportive and inclusive learning environment where students from diverse backgrounds can thrive and develop their unique voices. We believe that diversity is a source of strength and that by embracing different perspectives, we can enrich the filmmaking process and create stories that resonate with audiences around the globe.

Our commitment extends beyond the classroom. We provide our students with access to state-of-the-art facilities, industry-leading instructors, and invaluable networking opportunities. We are dedicated to preparing our graduates for successful careers in film and television, equipping them with the skills and connections they need to make their mark on the industry.

We also believe in the importance of ethical and responsible filmmaking. We encourage our students to use their talents to tell stories that promote social awareness, inspire positive change, and contribute to a more just and equitable world. We are committed to fostering a culture of integrity and professionalism within our Academy and throughout the filmmaking community.

Our History

2005

Founding of the Academy

Black and white photo of Evelyn Reed, the founder, during her early directing days on a film set.

Directing Mastery Academy was founded in 2005 by Evelyn Reed, an award-winning director with a passion for mentoring aspiring filmmakers. The Academy initially started as a small workshop focused on the fundamentals of directing, held in a rented studio space in downtown Los Angeles.

2010

Expansion of Curriculum

Students participating in a hands-on cinematography workshop, learning about camera angles and lighting.

In 2010, the Academy expanded its curriculum to include advanced courses in cinematography, screenwriting, and editing. This expansion allowed students to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the filmmaking process and develop a broader range of skills.

2015

Relocation to Sunset Blvd

Exterior of the Directing Mastery Academy's building on Sunset Boulevard, with a modern glass facade.

In 2015, Directing Mastery Academy relocated to its current location on Sunset Boulevard, a prime spot in the heart of the Los Angeles film industry. This move allowed the Academy to expand its facilities and attract even more talented students and instructors.

2020

Introduction of Online Courses

A student participating in an online directing course, interacting with the instructor via video conferencing.

In response to the growing demand for online education, Directing Mastery Academy launched its first online courses in 2020. These courses provide aspiring filmmakers from around the world with access to the Academy's high-quality curriculum and expert instructors.

2023

Partnership with Industry Leaders

Group of students and instructors at a networking event, talking with film industry professionals.

In 2023, Directing Mastery Academy established partnerships with several leading film studios and production companies. These partnerships provide students with invaluable internship opportunities and networking connections, helping them launch their careers in the film industry.

Our Team

Meet the dedicated team of industry professionals who are passionate about helping you achieve your filmmaking dreams.

Evelyn Reed, Award-winning Director and Founder of Directing Mastery Academy

Evelyn Reed

Founder & Lead Instructor
Award-winning Director with over 20 years of experience in film and television. Evelyn is passionate about mentoring the next generation of filmmakers and provides invaluable guidance and support to our students.

Damian Alvarez, Head of Cinematography

Damian Alvarez

Head of Cinematography
An accomplished cinematographer with extensive experience on both independent and studio films, Damian brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to our cinematography program. He is dedicated to helping students master the art of visual storytelling.

Naomi Chen, Screenwriting Instructor

Naomi Chen

Screenwriting Instructor
Naomi is a seasoned screenwriter and story consultant with a proven track record of developing successful film and television projects. She is committed to helping students craft compelling narratives and develop their unique writing voices.

Javier Ramirez, Editing Instructor

Javier Ramirez

Editing Instructor
Javier is an award-winning film editor who has worked on numerous critically acclaimed films and television shows. He provides students with hands-on training in the art of editing and helps them develop their storytelling skills in the post-production process.

Aisha Khan, Production Design Instructor

Aisha Khan

Production Design Instructor
Aisha is a highly skilled production designer with experience in creating immersive and visually stunning environments for film and television. She guides students through the process of conceptualizing and executing production designs that enhance the storytelling and bring scripts to life.

Our Facilities

Directing Mastery Academy boasts state-of-the-art facilities designed to provide students with a professional and immersive filmmaking experience.

Fully equipped sound stage with lighting rigs and set construction.

Sound Stages

Our sound stages are equipped with the latest lighting, grip, and camera equipment, providing students with the resources they need to bring their creative visions to life. We have multiple stages, each designed to accommodate different types of productions, from small-scale indie films to large-scale commercial shoots.

Modern editing suites with advanced editing software and workstations.

Editing Suites

Our editing suites are equipped with industry-standard software and hardware, allowing students to hone their post-production skills and learn the art of film editing. We provide students with access to the latest versions of Adobe Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro, and Avid Media Composer.

Acoustically treated screening room with comfortable seating and a large screen.

Screening Room

Our acoustically treated screening room provides students with a comfortable and professional environment to showcase their films and receive feedback from their peers and instructors. The room is equipped with a high-quality projector and sound system to ensure an optimal viewing experience.

Spacious and well-lit classrooms designed for interactive learning and workshops.

Classrooms & Workshops

Our classrooms and workshops are designed to facilitate interactive learning and hands-on training. We provide students with a comfortable and collaborative environment where they can learn from industry experts and develop their filmmaking skills.