September is packed with live sessions, fresh insights, and direct access to working industry professionals. This month, we are focusing heavily on community accountability, the practical application of AI in commercial directing, and navigating the realities of indie distribution.
Here is everything coming to the Filmmakers Academy platform this September.
THE SEPTEMBER LIVE LINEUP
September 1 | Office Hours: Community Check-In & Networking
- Hosted by: Brendan Sweeney
- Time: 5:00 PM (PT) / 8:00 PM (ET)
For our first Office Hours of September, we are bringing back one of our favorite formats: the career show-and-tell. This session is entirely about connection and accountability. Come prepared to share a quick life update, what you are actively working on, where you are stuck, and one goal you want to be held accountable for next month. This is a space to name your wins, work through your roadblocks, and find the collaborators who will carry your career forward.
September 8 | Special Event: Office Hours with Shane Hurlbut, ASC
- Time: 5:00 PM (PT) / 8:00 PM (ET)
Fresh off his latest feature, master cinematographer Shane Hurlbut, ASC (Terminator Salvation, We Are Marshall, The Perfect Couple) is jumping into Office Hours. This is your chance to ask questions and hear unfiltered insights from someone who has spent over 35 years navigating high-stakes sets. Ask about breaking in, building your reel, leading a camera department, or dive deep into the craft of visual storytelling and lighting philosophy. Shane does not sugarcoat; you will get honest, practical advice.
September 10 | Filmmakers Today feat. Ryder McNeal of Prevo
- Hosted by: Brendan Sweeney
- Time: 10:00 AM (PT) / 1:00 PM (ET)
If you want your short film to actually advance your career, you need a strategy that puts it in front of the executives who can hire you. Brendan sits down with Ryder McNeal, Founder & CEO of Prevo, to break down how emerging filmmakers can bypass the algorithm and secure low-budget distribution.
Learn how to leverage platforms like Prevo—which offers zero submission fees, human curation, and a direct pipeline to Hollywood development executives at agencies like UTA.
Streaming live on the platform and YouTube. Platform questions take priority during the Q&A.
September 15 | Commercial Filmmaking AI Workflow
- Hosted by: Jordan Brady
- Time: 10:00 AM (PT)
AI will not replace filmmakers, but filmmakers using AI will replace those who do not. Veteran commercial director Jordan Brady is pulling back the curtain on how a working director actually uses generative AI to win pitches, stretch a budget, and deliver better creative. Learn how to build AI-enhanced treatments, handle practical previs, and speak the language of your post-production team for seamless integration.
(Can’t make the live session? A replay will be available on the platform within 2-3 business days. Also, check out Jordan’s 5th Annual Filmmaker Retreat in Joshua Tree Oct 1–4. Use code jedimaster for $300 off!)
September 16 | Office Hours: Navigating the Industry & Platform
- Hosted by: Brendan Sweeney
- Time: 5:00 PM (PT) / 8:00 PM (ET)
Whether you are a new or long-time member, Brendan will help you navigate the FA platform, recommend specific resources, and offer career guidance tailored to your goals. With over eight years of experience spanning content production and VOD platforms, Brendan will share insider tips, provide introductions, and spark cinephile conversations.
September 22 | Special Event: Office Hours with Shane Hurlbut, ASC
- Time: 5:00 PM (PT) / 8:00 PM (ET)
Shane returns for a second session this month. If you missed the September 8th event or have follow-up questions about cinematography, lighting, and navigating the realities of production, this is your direct line to one of the industry’s best. Bring your questions, ideas, and a collaborative spirit.
September 29 | Office Hours with Lost Objects
- Hosted by: Brendan Sweeney & Kyra Grace
- Time: 5:00 PM (PT) / 8:00 PM (ET)
Following up on a hit previous session, the Lost Objects team returns to deliver focused career and marketing guidance. Get cutting-edge strategies for marketing yourself as a filmmaker in 2026, optimizing your social media, and building authentic audience connections. Bring your profiles for live, real-time social media audits.
ALSO DROPPING THIS SEPTEMBER
Fix It In Prep Masterclass
The ultimate guide to rigorously breaking down your script, evaluating technical locations, and building an airtight production plan so you never leave your execution to chance.
Spotlight Coaching with Pete Zuccarini
Learn from Pete Zuccarini, the legendary underwater cinematographer, responsible for the breathtaking aquatic photography in Avatar: The Way of Water, Life of Pi, Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl, and Into the Blue.
Make sure to mark your calendars and RSVP to the Zoom rooms early!
