ASC Masterclass: Vertical Cinematography

June 24-26, 2026

The ASC Vertical Cinematography Master Class, presented in partnership with Sony, Nanlux and ShotDeck, is designed not as a departure from cinematic tradition, but as an exploration of how cinematic language evolves alongside audience behavior and distribution platforms.

Today, the majority of video content worldwide is viewed on mobile devices. Vertical storytelling is no longer limited to advertising or social media clips but is rapidly expanding into narrative filmmaking, branded entertainment, documentaries, episodic content, and union productions. As with every major technological or stylistic shift in cinema history, cinematographers are now being asked to adapt their visual grammar to new viewing environments while maintaining the artistic standards that define great cinematography.

This three-day ASC Master Class examines how to preserve cinematic quality within the vertical frame, especially under the compressed schedules and tighter budgets that frequently accompany this format. Participants will explore lighting strategies, composition techniques, lens choices, framing considerations, and workflow adaptations specific to vertical production while also learning how to protect for traditional 16:9 distribution when necessary. Through live demonstrations, scene work, student exercises, editing sessions, and discussions with ASC members, the class emphasizes that strong visual storytelling transcends aspect ratio.

Leading the program is Michael Goi, ASC cinematographer, director, producer, and longtime advocate for emerging production technologies and evolving filmmaking methodologies. Goi has consistently helped bridge the gap between traditional cinematic craftsmanship and new forms of visual storytelling, including helping lead one of the industry’s first union vertical productions. His approach to the format is rooted not in trend chasing, but in applying enduring cinematic principles to the realities of modern audiences and distribution.

The purpose of this class is not to argue that vertical replaces traditional cinema. Rather, it acknowledges that cinematographers today are increasingly expected to work fluidly across multiple formats and platforms. The ASC’s role has always been to support cinematographers wherever visual storytelling is evolving, ensuring that craftsmanship, artistry, and cinematic integrity remain at the center of the work, regardless of screen orientation.

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