Academy
A New Era for the Albanian Film Community
The Albanian Academy of Cinematography (ASHK) is a national, independent cultural institution that brings together film industry professionals at home and abroad. Inspired by the finest European models — such as the César in France and the David di Donatello in Italy — the Academy works to promote, protect and reward merit in Albanian cinema.
Structure, Governance and Operation
- ▸ Academic Council (Board): The Academy is led by a Governing Board of distinguished figures elected by the members themselves, ensuring every branch is represented (directors, producers, actors, technicians and more).
- ▸ Industry Branches: The Academy is divided into dedicated professional departments. This structure ensures every voice is heard and that reforms and votes are informed and competent.
- ▸ Professional Voting: As with the world's major awards, the Academy is the official voting body that selects and judges the winners of the National Albanian Film Festival (and, in future, the Academy Awards) — moving that right from small juries to the industry itself.
Membership Procedure (Online)
Registration is handled simply and transparently through the official site of the Albanian Academy of Cinematography, hosted for now on the official site of the National Albanian Film Festival:
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Choosing Your BranchWhen applying you must select the branch of the film industry you belong to. If you work across several fields (for example Director and Producer), the system lets you pick more than one so your profile is accurate.
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Letter of MotivationA short text setting out your request and your reasons for joining the Academy.
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Geographic CriteriaMembership is open to all Albanian filmmakers and professionals living and working in the country, as well as those in the diaspora (Kosovo, North Macedonia, Montenegro and anywhere in the world).
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Professional CVUpload a personal CV in PDF listing your filmography, roles and specific contribution to film projects.
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Professional RecommendationUpload a letter of recommendation from one of the active, recognised film associations operating in Albania.
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Membership FeePayment of a symbolic annual fee of 15 Euro, which covers platform upkeep and member services.
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Code of EthicsAcceptance of the Academy's rules and Code of Ethics.
Exclusive Benefits and Advantages
Beyond the prestige, Academy membership brings concrete advantages across your professional life, networking and exclusive access to events.
Voting Rights and Decision-Making
- Voting for the National Festival You join the elite body whose sovereign, secret vote decides the winners of the major Albanian cinema awards. Your vote carries professional weight.
Academy Card (Access and Official Badge)
- Digital and Physical Card You receive a Member Card with photo, name and profession. The card doubles as your Official Badge.
- Festival Entry Free entry to every night of the National Albanian Film Festival.
- Cinema Access Free or reduced-rate access to all activities funded by the National Centre of Cinematography (festivals, conferences, panels, masterclasses).
Exclusivity at the National Festival
- VIP Invitation & Welcome Pack A guaranteed invitation to the opening and awards ceremonies, together with the special festival pack (personalised bag, official catalogue, programme and merchandise).
- VIP Lounge Dedicated access to the Festival VIP Lounge — the natural place for formal meetings, interviews and conversations with colleagues and international guests.
Professional Networking and Work
- "Cine-Match" Platform / Crew Network Your profile joins a protected database. You receive exclusive early notice of what new productions need (Albanian and international co-productions) in technical, artistic and management roles.
- Access to NCC Calls Continuous, real-time information on National Centre of Cinematography decisions, open calls and foreign funding opportunities (Creative Europe, Eurimages and others).
- Success Digest A regular bulletin on the journey, selections and successes of Albanian films around the world.
Further Opportunities
- Dedicated Screenings Access to the Academy's online platform to watch the films in competition before voting (closed screenings, members only).
- International Masterclasses Exclusive access to training sessions with foreign filmmakers invited by the Academy in partnership with the National Centre of Cinematography and the national and international festivals held in Albania, Kosovo, North Macedonia and beyond.
Join the professional community shaping the future of Albanian cinema.
Apply for the Academy →Members
43 current members