The Annual Emerging Cinematographer Awards (ECA) is set to honor two extraordinary individuals who have made significant contributions to the world of cinematography. Janusz Kamiński, a Polish cinematographer renowned for his collaboration with Steven Spielberg, will receive the distinguished Filmmaker Award. On the other hand, Stephen Lighthill, acclaimed for his cinematography in the Oscar-nominated documentary “Berkeley,” will accept the ASC Mentor Award. Let’s take a closer look at the remarkable careers of these two cinematographers and the impact they have had on their craft.
Janusz Kamiński’s collaboration with Steven Spielberg began in 1993 when he worked on the iconic film “Schindler’s List.” This partnership led to a long and successful collaboration on films like “Saving Private Ryan” and “Jurassic Park.” Kamiński, with his exceptional talent, has earned four Academy Award nominations, five BAFTA Awards, and six American Society of Cinematographers (ASC) Award nominations throughout his illustrious career.
It is worth mentioning that Kamiński has won the prestigious Best Cinematography Oscar not once, but twice, for his outstanding work on “Schindler’s List” and “Saving Private Ryan.” His ability to capture the essence of a story through cinematography has contributed greatly to the success of Spielberg’s films, which have become timeless classics.
Stephen Lighthill, another esteemed cinematographer, has a diverse body of work that encompasses network news, documentaries, and television shows. His notable works include the Oscar-nominated documentary “Berkeley,” “Gimme Shelter,” and “CBS 60 Minutes.” Lighthill’s skills have also been showcased in television series like HBO’s “Vietnam War Story,” NBC’s “Earth 2,” and CBS’s “Nash Bridges.”
Lighthill’s passion for teaching led him to his current role as the Head of Discipline: Cinematography at the renowned American Film Institute (AFI) Conservatory. In recognition of his exceptional contributions to the art and craft of cinematography, he received the Deluxe “Bud Stone” Award for Outstanding Educational Contributions from the ICG Emerging Cinematographer Awards in 2010.
The ECA chairs, Steven Poster, ASC, and Jimmy Matlosz, expressed their enthusiasm and appreciation for the outstanding contributions of Kamiński and Lighthill. They stated, “We’re delighted to award two of the most influential film artists and practitioners of our craft at this year’s ECA ceremony.” The recognition of these two exceptional individuals highlights their immense impact on the cinematography industry and their ability to inspire future generations of filmmakers.
The highly anticipated ECA showcase event will take place on October 1st at the Television Academy’s Saban Media Center Wolf Theater in North Hollywood. This event will provide a platform to celebrate the achievements of emerging cinematographers and honor the remarkable careers of Janusz Kamiński and Stephen Lighthill. It will be an evening filled with admiration, appreciation, and a deep understanding of the artistry and dedication required to excel in the field of cinematography.
Janusz Kamiński and Stephen Lighthill have left an indelible mark on the world of cinematography. Their exceptional talents, creative vision, and commitment to their craft have not only earned them numerous accolades but have also paved the way for future generations of cinematographers. The ECA’s recognition of their contributions serves as a reminder of the invaluable role they play in shaping the art of storytelling through the lens.
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