Meet Haeleigh Royall | Actor & Co-Founder of Cinematography for Actors

We had the good fortune of connecting with Haeleigh Royall and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Haeleigh, every day, we about how much execution matters, but we think ideas matter as well. How did you come up with the idea for your business?
The initial spark for the business came during a casual conversation while roller skating.
My co-founder, Inde, and I were discussing the challenges actors face on set and how greater technical knowledge could empower them to collaborate more effectively with cinematographers, directors, and the rest of the crew. This led us to envision a platform that would offer specialized education focused on bridging this gap—giving actors the confidence to engage with the filmmaking process more holistically.

From that idea, Cinematography for Actors evolved into a community-driven organization dedicated to empowering underrepresented and emerging filmmakers and actors. We’ve expanded our mission to include not just education but also networking and community-building opportunities, all aimed at fostering a more inclusive and supportive film industry. Our workshops, podcasts, and events are designed to equip actors and filmmakers with the skills and connections they need to succeed, regardless of their background or experience level.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
As first-time entrepreneurs without business degrees, creating Cinematography for Actors has been very much a journey of trial and error. Our commitment to inclusivity and the impact we hope to make keeps us pointed in the right direction as we constantly remind ourselves to stick to our core values and the reasons we started this company.

Through CFA, we’ve seen incredible connections leading many of our community members to shoot films together. Our programs are not just about sharpening skills; they’re about providing a supportive network where our community can find collaboration. We’ve built a brand that champions the voices of underrepresented filmmakers and actors, offering them equal opportunities to develop their careers.

We’re incredibly proud of the community we’ve built—one where talented individuals can connect, collaborate, and grow together. By being intentional about the opportunities we pursue, we’ve been able to course correct when needed to stay on a path that aligns with our long-term vision.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
We’ll start the week at CFA Café – We host a co-working day with free coffee, tea, and a great atmosphere for getting work done and checking in with the CFA community. It’s the best way for my best friend to get to know what my life in LA is like, and to meet some of my nearest and dearest collaborators.

Since we’re in Los Feliz, we’ll have long relaxed lunches at Alcove and Figaro. I love the way I know a friend from the neighborhood will always walk by.

I don’t spend enough time by the water so when someone’s in town I use it as an excuse to take beach days! I love combing the tide pools at Leo Carrillo and watching the skateboarders in Venice.

We’ll share a poke bowls and pizzas at Great White, and have Korean BBQ at Choeng Wun.

My best friend is a big reader so we’ll also tour every used bookshop we can find.
I’ll want to show her Suay Sew Shop. And then, on Sunday, I’ll take her to Jet Rag at 9am to fight for her life in the bales.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Cinematography for Actors could not have happened without our community and those who have grown and learned alongside us from the very beginning. Our journey has been a collaborative effort, and we’re deeply grateful to everyone who has contributed to our mission!
We owe a huge thanks to the vendors and rental houses like Zeiss, Cooke, Evidence, Keslow, HAWK Anamorphic, Hot Rod, Blackmagic, and Deity who have been instrumental in providing the tools, resources, and spaces that make our workshops and educational programs possible.
We’ve also been fortunate to collaborate with some incredible organizations and festivals that share our commitment to fostering talent in the film industry. Our partnerships with the Easterseals Disability Film Challenge, AFI, We Make Movies, HollyShorts Film Festival, and Mammoth Film Festival have been instrumental in amplifying our impact and helping us build a stronger, more inclusive network of filmmakers and actors.

Website: https://www.cinematographyforactors.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cinematographyforactors/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/82792386/admin/dashboard/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cinematographyforactors

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@cinematographyforactors

Image Credits
Charlie Nguyen
Vivien Killilea