Filipino-American Autumn Durald Arkapaw made history at the 98th Academy Awards after winning Best Cinematography for the film Sinners, becoming the first woman and first woman of color to receive the award in the category.
Arkapaw collaborated on the film with director Ryan Coogler, marking their second project together following Black Panther: Wakanda Forever.
Set in 1930s Mississippi, Sinners explores themes of blues music, cultural appropriation, and the lasting influence of Black art.
“Whenever I say thank you to Ryan, he replies, ‘No, thank you. Thank you for believing in me and thank you for trusting me.’ And that’s the kind of guy I get to make films with. He’s a very honorable person,” Arkapaw said in her acceptance speech.
She also acknowledged the women who helped shape her journey.
“I’ve gotten to meet so many people, and I feel like moments like this happen because of you guys. These people are so beautiful, and I’m honored to be there photographing them,” she continued.
Arkapaw’s work on the film also marked the first time a woman shot a feature using the large IMAX 65mm and Ultra Panavision formats.
Before her victory, only three women had been nominated for Best Cinematography: Rachel Morrison for Mudbound, Ari Wegner for The Power of the Dog, and Mandy Walker for Elvis.
In an earlier interview, the cinematographer said the story of Sinners felt deeply personal.
“When I read the story, it felt very close to home,” she said.
The film entered the Oscars with a record 16 nominations.
