Our Story: Crafting Filmmakers of Tomorrow

Discover the heart and soul behind Luminosity Film Academy, where passion meets professional filmmaking.

Our History

Founders Anya Petrova and Ben Carter discussing a project

Luminosity Film Academy was founded in 2010 by Anya Petrova, a celebrated film director, and Ben Carter, an award-winning cinematographer. Both Anya and Ben shared a deep passion for filmmaking and a frustration with the lack of practical, industry-focused education available to aspiring filmmakers. They envisioned an academy that would bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world application, providing students with the skills, experience, and connections they needed to thrive in the competitive world of film.

The academy began in a small studio space in downtown Los Angeles, with just a handful of students and a few basic pieces of equipment. Despite the humble beginnings, Anya and Ben were determined to create a learning environment that was both rigorous and supportive. They emphasized hands-on training, mentorship from industry professionals, and a collaborative approach to filmmaking.

Over the years, Luminosity Film Academy has grown steadily, attracting students from all over the world. The curriculum has expanded to include a wide range of courses, from screenwriting and directing to cinematography and film editing. The academy has also invested in state-of-the-art equipment and facilities, ensuring that students have access to the latest technology and resources. Luminosity Film Academy is now recognized as one of the leading film schools in Los Angeles, with a reputation for producing talented and successful filmmakers.

A pivotal moment in the academy's history was the establishment of the Luminosity Film Festival in 2015. This annual event provides a platform for students and alumni to showcase their work to a wider audience, including industry professionals, critics, and potential employers. The festival has become a highly anticipated event in the Los Angeles film community and has helped to launch the careers of many aspiring filmmakers.

Our Mission

Film crew working on a movie set

Our mission at Luminosity Film Academy is to empower the next generation of filmmakers with the knowledge, skills, and connections they need to succeed in the dynamic and ever-evolving film industry. We strive to provide a comprehensive and practical education that combines theoretical foundations with hands-on experience, fostering creativity, innovation, and collaboration.

We are committed to creating a learning environment that is inclusive, diverse, and supportive, where students from all backgrounds can thrive. We believe that diversity is essential to creativity and innovation, and we actively seek to create a community that reflects the rich tapestry of the world around us.

We are dedicated to providing our students with access to the latest technology, equipment, and resources, ensuring that they are well-prepared for the challenges and opportunities of the modern film industry. We also strive to connect our students with industry professionals, providing them with mentorship, networking opportunities, and valuable insights into the world of filmmaking.

At Luminosity Film Academy, we believe that filmmaking is more than just a job; it is a passion, a calling, and a powerful tool for storytelling. We are committed to fostering a love of filmmaking in our students and helping them to develop their unique voices and visions. Our ultimate goal is to empower our students to become successful, ethical, and impactful filmmakers who can contribute to the art and industry of cinema for years to come.

Our Team

Team member Anya Petrova headshot

Anya Petrova

Co-Founder & Director

Team member Ben Carter headshot

Ben Carter

Co-Founder & Cinematographer

Team member Elena Sanchez headshot

Elena Sanchez

Head of Screenwriting Department

Team member Omar Ali headshot

Omar Ali

Lead Directing Instructor

Team member Chloe Davis headshot

Chloe Davis

Film Editing Specialist

Team member Javier Rodriguez headshot

Javier Rodriguez

Sound Design Expert