Fresh off her Oscar win for Best cinematography for “Sinners”, Autumn Durald Arkapaw has signed on to a new project.
Arkapaw, who became the first woman of color to be nominated, and the first woman to win, will mentor the participants of AFI’s Cinematography Intensive Workshop.
The four-day intensive workshop for aspiring cinematographers is spearheaded by AFI Conservatory Cinematography Discipline Head Stephen Lighthill, ASC.
Designed to empower up-and-coming cinematographers, who are seeking additional training to help them advance in their education, craft and career, the Cinematography Intensive Workshop (CIW) is presented by Panavision.
Taking place Wednesday, March 18 in Los Angeles and continue through Sunday, March 22, the selected filmmakers for 2026 are Alice Boucherie, Alexandria Jones, Karson Kane, Amanda Kowalski, Julie Nhem, Emma Penrose, Shauna Presto, Melina Anastasia Psarros, Cat Rider, Tania Romero, Kimani Schumann and Carman Spoto.
“The Cinematography Intensive Workshop is designed to open doors for artists that have historically been excluded from careers in cinematography,“ said Lighthill. “Through lectures, hands-on exercises and screenings, the program explores the art and craft of cinematography while encouraging a new generation of storytellers to pursue the field.”
CIW classes will be taught by industry leaders and AFI Conservatory Faculty and Alumni, including Academy Award winner Autumn Durald Arkapaw.
