Launched in 2023, The NYWIFT Masterclass Series offers in-depth virtual multi-class workshops that explore various aspects of the film, television, and media industry.
Led by award-winning experts, the classes will teach students about the craft, content, and business strategies involved in each creative pursuit, building a solid foundation for artistic fulfillment and commercial success.
NYWIFT Members get discounted access to all Masterclasses. If you’re not a member yet, please join us today. Email membership@nywift.org with questions.
Check out the full listing of past Masterclasses below, and be sure to look out for upcoming Masterclasses on our events page.
Writing for Television with Laura Shapiro
On January 15, 22, & 29, 2025, Writing for Television taught the essentials of episodic storytelling under the mentorship of Lara Shapiro, whose credits include The Americans, Berlin Station, and Impulse. Through a combination of case studies, group discussions, lessons, and exercises, students honed their skills and left with a fresh perspective and inspiration to bring their long-form stories to life.
Feature Film Budgeting with Sirad Balducci
On December 4, 11, & 19, 2024, NYWIFT and Sirad Balducci presented this three-part masterclass, which demystified the budgeting process, offered insights into script breakdown and shot schedules, and covered fundamental budgeting basics. We explored how to effectively collaborate with producers, directors, and department heads and imparted strategies to align your movie’s production plan with the creative vision of the project.
Creative Strategies for Financing with Simone Pero
On October 30 and November 6 & 13, 2024, NYWIFT and Simone Pero presented this three-part masterclass, which offered new insights and approaches to the fundraising process. We explored how to effectively plan your path forward from a holistic, strategic point of view to the practical development of a targeted finance plan. Participants walked away from this course with renewed inspiration and a step-by-step roadmap to follow in building presentation materials, identifying funders, and creating a sustainable tribe that will support you, project after project.
Post-Production with Company 3
In this masterclass series on June 10 & 17, 2024, we discovered the history of the post-production process, the latest advancements in color correction technology, best practices for how to communicate with your post team, and what to keep in mind as you budget for the finishing touches on your film.
Sports Producing with Justine Gubar
On May 8, 15, & 29, 2024, this series of three masterclasses, through case studies and conversations, taught the process of creating and producing sports documentaries and sports content production.
On-Camera Audition Technique with Casting Director Amy Gossels
On February 16 & 23, 2024, NYWIFT and casting director Amy Gossels presented a two-part Masterclass where you learned innovative on-camera audition techniques that could elevate your auditions and gained coveted industry insight to boost your career. As an educator and coach, Amy’s mission is to empower actors, and with that goal in mind, her teaching style is highly specific, actionable, and results-oriented.
Feature Film Budgeting with Sirad Balducci
On December 4, 11, & 18, 2023, NYWIFT and Sirad Balducci presented this three-part masterclass, which demystified the budgeting process, offered insights into script breakdown and shot schedules, and covered fundamental budgeting basics. We explored how to effectively collaborate with producers, directors, and department heads and imparted strategies to align your movie’s production plan with the creative vision of the project.
Nonfiction Audio Development with Jamie Zelermyer
On November 1, 16, & 30, 2023, NYWIFT and Jamie Zelermyer presented this series of three masterclasses, where, through case studies and conversation, creators of all levels learned about development through completion – starting with an initial idea through to a finished audio piece.
Writing for Television with Amy Fox
On October 16, 23, & 30, 2023, NYWIFT and Amy Fox presented this masterclass, where writers at all levels could walk away with marketable skills and renewed passion, from those writing their first script to more experienced writers looking to dive into their next project and refresh their approach.
