The Global Cinematography Institute (GCI) is a specialized film school dedicated to teaching emerging technologies in cinematography. Co-founded by renowned cinematographers Yuri Neyman, ASC and Academy Award-winner Vilmos Zsigmond, ASC (known for "Close Encounters of the Third Kind"), GCI aims to equip filmmakers with "Expanded Cinematography" skills to master both the art and technology of image-making in an evolving digital landscape.
The institute was established to address a perceived decline in cinematographic knowledge and power on set, emphasizing that technology serves artistic vision. Its curriculum integrates traditional lighting and composition with advanced concepts like virtual cinematography, previsualization, and even cinematography for video games. However, in 2021, GCI announced the deferral of all sessions and halted new student applications due to the COVID-19 pandemic.