Film Independent's Camera Grant is accepting applications on a rolling basis from qualifying alumni and fellows. The selected team receives a loan of either an ARRI Alexa SXT Plus package or two Blackmagic URSA Mini Pro 4.6K camera bodies, depending on availability.
Applications must arrive at least 30 days before production begins, and the project must be at least 75% financed.
Featured photo: ARRI Alexa Plus 4:3 digital cinema camera by Sean P. Anderson, via Wikimedia Commons, licensed under CC BY 2.0. The image was resized for web use and is illustrative; it is not connected to Film Independent or the current grant.
Why it matters
A professional camera package can remove a meaningful equipment line from a production budget. But this is not an open call for every filmmaker: eligibility is limited to specific Film Independent communities, and the award still carries a $500 usage fee, refundable deposit, insurance requirements and possible shipping costs.
Who is eligible
The applicant must be the director, producer or cinematographer of a narrative or documentary short, feature or web series. If the applicant is not the cinematographer, a cinematographer must already be attached.
Applicants must also be one of the following:
- An alumnus of a Film Independent Artist Development program.
- An alumnus of the LA Film Festival.
- A past Film Independent Spirit Award nominee.
- A filmmaker directly solicited by Film Independent.
The winning team must be or become Film Independent members and provide proof of production insurance.
What the grant includes—and what it does not
The camera is loaned for prep and principal photography. The ARRI option includes the Alexa SXT Plus body, licenses, viewfinder, batteries, charger, Codex media and dock, case, cables and a Sachtler support package. The Blackmagic alternative includes two URSA Mini Pro 4.6K bodies.
Film Independent requires a $500 usage fee and refundable deposit. The production is responsible for shipping outside Los Angeles plus general-liability and equipment insurance. Applicants should price those obligations before treating the grant as a zero-cost package.
What the application asks for
The online application costs $65, or $45 for current Film Independent members. Required materials include a cover letter explaining why the requested package suits the project, director and cinematographer statements, a detailed production timeline and financing plan, a budget top sheet, script, logline, synopsis, key cast and crew bios, and a cinematographer work sample.
Plan around the 30-day rule
Because the grant is rolling, there is no single annual deadline. The practical deadline is at least 30 days before the first production date. A team that is not yet 75% financed or cannot document its schedule should wait until those requirements are met rather than submit an incomplete package.
Review the official Camera Grant terms →
Primary source
Update note
Published October 16, 2026, from Film Independent's current grant page. The program is rolling and equipment is subject to availability; applicants should verify the live terms before applying.