Wildlife Cinematographer
Diversity FundWe are WCDF.
The WCDF started as the Wildlife Camerawomen Community group on Facebook and for over three years has provided resources, classes, and workshops for current and aspiring wildlife cinematographers of marginalized genders. As the group has grown, so has the need for funding and partnerships to keep resources accessible for members of any background. Consequently, the non-profit, Wildlife Cinematographer Diversity Fund, was born.
Our Vision
The Wildlife Cinematographer Diversity Fund is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit and a leading organization dedicated to supporting underrepresented communities in wildlife cinematography. We are dedicated to training, growing and empowering diverse talent in the field. The WCDF provides industry networking opportunities, in-person and virtual masterclasses and workshops, free training and mentorship for current and aspiring wildlife cinematographers from underrepresented groups and backgrounds in order to cultivate their growth into the industry.
We believe that promoting and encouraging diverse voices and talent into the industry will help lead to more opportunities and connections to communities to protect their wild places. We believe the Natural History film industry must truly represent the full diversity of our world.
Our Mission
Our mission is to build community, uplift voices, provide mentorship and create networking opportunities for underrepresented communities pursuing careers in wildlife cinematography. Utilizing our resources, we are building the foundation and working to eliminate additional barriers so that our members share and protect the natural world through their lenses and perspectives.
Values & Goals
Accessibility
One of the biggest hurdles for many people trying to enter the field of wildlife cinematography is financial disparity. Our team works to get camera gear into the hands of aspiring cinematographers and provide access to industry-level tools for those on their journey.
Community
By building a community, we create a safe space for skill and knowledge sharing. The best way to accomplish our goals is to do it together. We are committed to evolving the culture so that any individual or group feels welcomed, supported, and valued to fully participate within our community.
We invite partnership and support with organizations committed to diversity, equity and inclusion to transform intention into action.
Creating Change
Though we have seen progress, systemic bias (both consciously and unconsciously) persists in cinematography and camerawork.
This bias is intersectional across age, class, race, ethnicity, ability, gender identity and sexual orientation,
Our team encourages the use of equitable best practices and policies in order to achieve parity and shift culture. We work with industry professional and companies to expand these practices within their own work.
Representation
“Authentic representation allows audiences to see themselves reflected on screen, fostering a sense of connection and validation.”- Julia Stebleva
When you work in a climate where you’ve been historically excluded and there are fewer of you in the field, it often leads to subsequent generations being deterred from pursuing it. Representation makes it seem possible. We are working to create platforms for aspiring cinematographers to see ‘themselves’ represented among our many successful members and believe that they can pursue this career as well.
“You can’t be what you can’t see” by Marian Wright Edelman.
Get Involved
JOIN OUR COMMUNITY - stay up to date on member/community updates, events, workshops, and features.
DONATE - Make a tax-deductible donation to increase gear and training access for aspiring camerawomen
POTENTIAL PARTNERSHIPS AND COLLABORATIONS - Please reach out to us if you’d like to work on our mission together! We welcome new ideas and new minds as part of our story.
ENGAGE ONLINE - Meet our community members and stay updated on events via our Instagram!
Our Board
Erin Ranney
Co-founder, Director
Sarah-Jane Walsh
Co-founder
Sara Matasick
Board Member
Jackie Stearns
Board Member
Faith Musembi
Board Member
Jack Johnston
Board Member
Christina Karliczek
Board Member
Samantha-Lynn Martinez
Board Member, Designer
Our Volunteers
Jessica Mitchell
Lead Newsletter
Nina Brun
Newsletter Team
Caitlin Bailey
Newsletter Team
Brenda Razo
Newsletter Team
Our Partners & Sponsors
The Wildlife Cinematographer Diversity Fund and Wildlife Camerawomen Community is made possible thanks to our sponsors and partners.
Interested in connecting with us? We are always looking to expand out community, and whether it’s through partnership, sponsorship, or an extended company donation/gear offer, the WCDF and Wildlife Camerawomen Community rely on your support to make wildlife cinematography a possibility for all!
Please email camerawomencommunity@gmail.com for all inquiries.
Our Community,
Worldwide.
Our members and talent are from all around the world.
Join us to find out more about your local hub, and connect with this vast network of cinematographers!
camerawomencommunity@gmail.com
@wildlife.camerawomen