Today we’d like to introduce you to Haeleigh Royall
Hi Haeleigh, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Although my love of entertaining was evident from the very beginning (basement light show rollerblade musicals of course), I didn’t imagine I’d pursue it as a career choice until my junior year of college. I was lucky to be given time and space to explore many different interests growing up, and so it wasn’t until I attended a university production of ‘Urinetown’ and left sobbing over how disappointed I was to have been merely an audience member and not a member of the cast that I realized my destiny was not to become a hard-hitting corporate lawyer and retire at 28. I wanted, no, I NEEDED to be an actor. Yikes.
After this revelation, my pivot was swift. I auditioned for and joined my university’s Actor Training Program, performed in a handful of plays and student films, co-produced a moody short film about my hometown, and moved directly to London after graduating.
London gave me a better education than any graduate school I could have possibly attended. I lived a bohemian dream of art, theatre, and constant rain, and I was severely depressed. Turns out I needed more than sixteen days of sun in a calendar year. And so I left London, exited a disappointing marriage, and drove my little 1994 Honda Accord to Los Angeles.
My short experience in the industry highlighted a significant gap in technical education for actors. I realized that many actors, while talented, lacked the technical knowledge required to navigate film sets confidently. So a couple years after my LA move, this realization sparked the idea for Cinematography for Actors, which I co-founded with Cinematographer / Producer Indeana Underhill. Our vision is to foster a supportive community where actors and filmmakers learn, grow, and take control of their careers together. The cool side effect here is that I also feel like I’ve taken control of mine.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
What’s that saying about sand polishing rocks? Or pressure making diamonds? Something inspirational like that. I don’t think it’s ever been a smooth road, but on the downhill stretches one gains momentum that pushes you through the uphill stretches. And I’m lucky to be surrounded by family and friends who love deeply and unconditionally. That support makes challenges easier to work through.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
Cinematography for Actors (CFA) is a community-based peer-to-peer education and career support nonprofit dedicated to empowering underrepresented and emerging filmmakers and actors. We focus on building confidence and expanding networks for filmmakers and actors through various programs and initiatives.
Our organization offers a wide range of workshops (both in-person and online) covering technical aspects of filmmaking, marketing, PR, and distribution. We also provide fiscal sponsorship, allowing filmmakers to receive tax-deductible donations and grants. We produce industry-leading podcasts, offering valuable insights and industry knowledge weekly. Additionally, we host specialized workshops and networking events year-round to foster community and support emerging talent.
What sets CFA apart, and the thing we’re most proud of brand-wise, is our focus on inclusivity and support for underrepresented communities. Our programs are not just about education; they’re about creating a platform for collaboration and ensuring our community members can thrive and be recognized for their unique talent. We’ve built a brand that champions the voices of underrepresented filmmakers and actors, offering them equal opportunities to develop their careers. Our partnerships with industry leaders and our programs have made a significant impact on the careers of many talented individuals, which is something we take great pride in.
How do you think about happiness?
Nothing makes me happier than watching a one-year-old eat. As we grow we have to learn to eat in a clean, contained, polite manner, which totally makes sense because nobody wants to clean up after an adult who eats like a baby. But man. The joy a one-year-old exudes through the mess is healing.
Pricing:
- All of CFA’s programs are free. Join us!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.cinematographyforactors.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cinematographyforactors/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cinematographyforactors
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCIvz4VA5Ez8jr1LXwakyK5w
