The American Society of Cinematographers (ASC) is an educational, cultural, and professional organization. It is not a
labor union, and it is not a
guild. Membership is by invitation and is extended only to
directors of photography and
special effects experts with distinguished credits in the film industry. Not all cinematographers can place the initials A.S.C. after their names. ASC membership has become one of the highest honors that can be bestowed upon a professional cinematographer, a mark of prestige and distinction. The ASC currently has approximately 340 members.
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