Summary
- The 2026 Emerging Cinematographer Awards recognized seven emerging cinematographers selected from more than 100 submissions.
- Their seven short films were screened at the DGA Theater in Los Angeles.
- The program is for ICG Local 600 members who are not yet classified as directors of photography within the Guild.
- This year's group highlights seven filmmakers taking the next steps in cinematography.
Seven emerging cinematographers were recognized at the International Cinematographers Guild’s 28th Emerging Cinematographer Awards, with their short films screened at the DGA Theater in Los Angeles.
The ceremony took place on October 2, 2026. The seven filmmakers were selected from more than 100 submissions in a program designed to spotlight ICG Local 600 members taking the next steps toward careers as directors of photography.
The seven filmmakers recognized in 2026
The awards recognize ICG members who are not yet classified as directors of photography within the Guild. Eligible works are short films under 30 minutes, with honorees selected by a panel of established Local 600 members.
- Connor Van Bodell — The Resistance
- Blaine Dunkley — Week One
- Amy Faust — Photography
- Barbie Leung — What Do We Call This?
- Jordan Oglesby — The Interview
- Jannis Schelenz — The Way We Carry Water
- Haley Watson — Songs of Black Folk
The group reflects the purpose of the program: recognizing working film professionals who are developing their own creative paths in cinematography.
A program focused on the next generation
Local 600 National President John Lindley, ASC emphasized in the official announcement the importance of elevating and mentoring emerging talent for the future of the craft and the industry.
Amy Vincent, ASC joined the ECA committee as a new co-chair this year. Vincent was herself an ECA honoree in 1996 and 1998, and serves alongside Steven Poster, ASC and Eduardo Fierro, SVC.
Their films on the big screen
The October 2 ceremony went beyond presenting the honors. All seven shorts were screened at the DGA Theater, giving the filmmakers an opportunity to present their work in a professional setting centered on cinematography.
From The Resistance to Songs of Black Folk, the 2026 selection presents seven different creative paths and seven names worth following.
What we think
The value of the Emerging Cinematographer Awards is that they focus attention on filmmakers before they reach broad recognition. For young filmmakers and students, the 2026 group offers seven different careers in cinematography worth following.
Frequently asked questions
Who are the seven 2026 filmmakers?
Connor Van Bodell, Blaine Dunkley, Amy Faust, Barbie Leung, Jordan Oglesby, Jannis Schelenz and Haley Watson.
How many submissions were received?
The seven filmmakers were selected from more than 100 submissions.
Who are the awards for?
The program recognizes ICG Local 600 members who are not yet classified as directors of photography within the Guild and highlights their work on short films.
Where was the ceremony held?
The 28th annual ceremony was held on October 2, 2026 at the DGA Theater in Los Angeles.
