CQ Master Class Tokyo 2026.07 Instructor Change Announcement

We regret to announce that Amy Vincent, previously scheduled as an instructor, is unable to participate due to work commitments. Nicole Hirsch Whitaker (ASC) will now join as an instructor. The instructors will be Ula Pontikos (BSC) and Nicole Hirsch Whitaker (ASC). Please be aware of this change.

1. Project Overview

The Japanese Society of Cinematographers (JSC) has launched the "Cinematic Quantum: The Innovative Eye of a Cinematographer" project to foster talent in cinematography, as part of the "Japan Creator Support Fund." This initiative began last year in collaboration with the Agency for Cultural Affairs and the Japan Arts Council.

In its second year, the second "Cinematic Quantum Masterclass Tokyo" will be held in July for cinematographers and lighting technicians.

This masterclass will feature two internationally acclaimed cinematographers as instructors: Nicole Hirsch Whitaker (ASC) and Ula Pontikos (BSC).

Nicole Hirsch Whitaker (ASC) https://www.imdb.com/name/nm1593867/?ref_=nv_sr_srsg_0_tt_0_nm_1_in_0_q_Nicole%20Hirsch%20Whitaker Ula Pontikos (BSC) https://www.imdb.com/name/nm1127138/

The program aims to equip participants with not only technical knowledge and cinematography techniques but also to foster skills in "decision-making as a cinematographer," "collaboration with directors and producers," "communication in international co-productions," and "qualities required in a global production environment," ultimately contributing to the development of international careers.

2. Event Details

CQ Master Class Tokyo 2026.07

Organizers: Agency for Cultural Affairs, Japan Arts Council, Japanese Society of Cinematographers (JSC)

Schedule

July 15, 2026 (Wed) 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM (scheduled) July 16, 2026 (Thu) 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM (scheduled)

* Each day will feature different lecture content. Details of the lecture content will be announced and updated on the JSC website and other platforms.

Venue: Sony Group Headquarters Digital Media Production Center (DMPC) Japan

Postal Code: 108-0075 Tokyo, Minato-ku, Konan 1-7-1

https://www.sony.jp/professional/digital-media-production-center-japan/?srsltid=AfmBOorzYD7WOBDYUx0-XQ7EYS26p6sr0GMQs6ZHy1q4cmoz6_q1E3zr

3. Number of Participants and Application Period

Approximately 35 participants

Application Period: June 18, 2026 (Thu) - June 30, 2026 (Tue) *Applications have closed.

* Please check the JSC website for the latest information.

If there are many applicants, a selection process based on submitted documents will be conducted. Notification of acceptance is scheduled for after July 3, 2026 (Fri).

4. Participation Fee

11,000 yen (tax included)

* The fee is the same whether attending for one day or both days.

* If you require a receipt, please indicate this on the application form.

* Travel expenses, accommodation, and meal costs to the venue are the responsibility of the participant.

5. Eligibility Criteria

All of the following conditions must be met:

(1) Individuals actively and continuously engaged in the field of video production. Examples: Cinematographers, camera operators, lighting technicians. (2) Ability to participate on the following dates: (A) Both July 15 and 16 (B) July 15 only (C) July 16 only (3) Individuals with an international perspective and interest in future collaboration and international activities abroad. (4) Japanese nationality or permanent residency in Japan, or individuals based and active in Japan.

If you do not meet these criteria, please consult the JSC secretariat.

6. Desired Candidate Profile

This program welcomes individuals who:

"Are aiming for the next stage as professionals" "Wish to succeed in international production environments" "Aspire to collaborate with overseas production companies" "Seek to further enhance their expressive abilities" "Are proactive in interacting with and learning from other participants"

8. Selection Method

If there are many applicants, a selection process will be conducted based on the documents submitted through the application form. Three experts will conduct the review to ensure fairness from the perspective of potential and education.

Notification of acceptance will be sent via email to the applicant's personal address on July 3, 2026 (Fri).

9. Handling of Personal Information and Consent Form

Please review the "Privacy Policy" and "Consent Form" on the application form and submit your application after agreeing to their terms.

Inquiries

Japanese Society of Cinematographers

157-8561 Tokyo, Setagaya-ku, Seijo 1-4-1, Toho Studio Office Center 2F

TEL: 03-6411-1690 FAX: 03-6411-1691 mail: info@jsc.or.jp

https://www.thejsc.net

[About Cinematic Quantum]

The "Culture and Arts Activity Base Strengthening Fund (Japan Creator Support Fund)" (commonly known as the Creator Support Fund), established by the Japan Arts Council with subsidies from the Agency for Cultural Affairs, has launched a system to support the development of training programs. These programs include practical experience in international settings to acquire skills necessary for students and professionals aiming for global careers. "Cinematic Quantum" is one of the commissioned projects of the "Creator Support Fund," where the Agency for Cultural Affairs, the Japan Arts Council, and the JSC jointly develop and implement a program over several years to train individuals who can be active internationally in the field of film cinematography.

Organized by: Agency for Cultural Affairs, Government of Japan, Japan Arts Council, Japanese Society of Cinematographers Secretariat: Japanese Society of Cinematographers