Question 1

Do I need prior experience to enroll?

Accepted Answer

No experience is required. Our programs are designed to take you from complete beginner to confident creative. We start with the fundamentals and build from there — all you need is a passion to learn. Not sure if it's right for you? Come to our free Camera Basics class first.

Question 2

How long are the programs?

Accepted Answer

Each program is 8 weeks long. Video Production is 8 weeks, Photography is 8 weeks. If you want to do both (our Full Program), it's 16 weeks total. Day classes run 10am–4pm, evening classes run 5–9pm.

Question 3

What's the class size?

Accepted Answer

We keep classes small so every student gets real attention from the instructor. You're not a number — your instructor knows your name, your work, and your goals.

Question 4

Do I get a certificate when I finish?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Upon successful completion of your program, you receive an Alberta Film School certificate of completion. More importantly, you graduate with a real portfolio of work you can show to clients and employers.

Question 5

Is financial aid or payment plans available?

Accepted Answer

We offer flexible payment plans to make the program accessible. Contact us directly to discuss options that work for your situation. We do not offer government student loans.

Question 6

Are classes available online?

Accepted Answer

No — and that's intentional. Film and photography are hands-on crafts. You can't learn to shoot by watching videos. Our in-person format is core to what makes AFS effective.

Question 7

What equipment do I need?

Accepted Answer

You need your own camera (DSLR or mirrorless). If you don't have one yet, we can recommend options for every budget. All studio equipment (lighting, backdrops, etc.) is provided by the school.

Question 8

What is the Free Camera Basics Class?

Accepted Answer

It's a free 1.5-hour introductory class where you learn the three main settings used for exposure: ISO, aperture, and shutter speed. You'll learn what each setting does, how to use them, what exposure is and what you should be exposing for, and how to avoid common exposure mistakes.

Question 9

Do I need to bring anything?

Accepted Answer

Bring your camera if you have one. If you don't have a camera yet, you can still attend and learn — we'll have equipment available for you to practice with.

Question 10

Is it really free?

Accepted Answer

Yes, completely free. No strings attached. It's our way of letting you experience AFS before committing to a program.

Question 11

How do I sign up?

Accepted Answer

Visit our Free Class page and book your spot. Classes fill up, so book early.

Question 12

What workshops do you offer?

Accepted Answer

We currently offer a Content Creation Workshop and a Real Estate Videography Workshop. New workshops are added regularly — check our Workshops page for the latest schedule.

Question 13

Do I need to be enrolled in a program to attend a workshop?

Accepted Answer

No. Workshops are open to everyone — current students, graduates, and the general public.

Question 14

What's the difference between a workshop and a program?

Accepted Answer

Programs are comprehensive 8-week courses covering fundamentals to advanced skills. Workshops are shorter, focused sessions on specific topics — perfect for learning a particular skill or niche.

Question 15

Can I rent the studio?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Our fully equipped studio is available for hourly, half-day, and full-day rentals. Lighting, backdrops, and equipment are included.

Question 16

Can I hire a photographer or videographer?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We offer photographers and videographers for any type of project — studio or on location. Visit our Services page for details.

Question 17

What are private lessons?

Accepted Answer

One-on-one instruction with an AFS instructor. Learn whatever you want — photography, videography, editing, lighting, business — at your own pace, on your own schedule.

Question 18

How do I book a service?

Accepted Answer

Visit the specific service page and fill out the inquiry form. We'll get back to you within 24 hours with availability and pricing.

Question 19

What is Portfolio Week?

Accepted Answer

Portfolio Week is a signature part of our Photography program. During this week, the classroom transforms into a full working studio. Students photograph a variety of real people all week long, putting everything they've learned into practice with the instructor right there to guide them. You leave with a complete, professional portfolio.

Question 20

What are field placements?

Accepted Answer

Field placements are real paid or volunteer shoots that our students go out and complete in the city. We connect you with clients — events, commercials, promos, music videos — and you shoot, edit, and deliver the work with instructor feedback. You can do as many placements as you want.

Question 21

Can I choose what type of placements I do?

Accepted Answer

Yes. If you have a specific niche you want to practice (weddings, sports, real estate, etc.), we'll find you placements in that area.

Question 22

Where is the school located?

Accepted Answer

We're located at Unit 152 – 10045 156 St NW, Edmonton, AB T5P 2P7 (The Orange Hub Building, Floor 1, Room 152). Visit our Location & Parking page for parking details and a map.

Question 23

How can I contact you?

Accepted Answer

Call us at (587) 414-2902, email us, or use the contact form on our website. You can also chat with Tony, our AI assistant, on any page.

Question 24

Do you have a campus store?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Visit our Campus Store for AFS merchandise and gear.

Question 25

Can I visit the school before enrolling?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. The best way to visit is to attend our free Camera Basics class — you'll see the space, meet an instructor, and get a feel for how we teach. If you can't make a class, you can also book an admissions consult.

Frequently Asked

Questions.

Programs & Enrollment

Free Camera Basics Class

Workshops

Services

Portfolio Week & Placements

General

Still Have Questions?