AFI and Panavision Announce Participants for 2026 Cinematography Intensive
The American Film Institute (AFI) and Panavision have announced the twelve filmmakers selected for the 2026 Cinematography Intensive Workshop, a four-day program taking place from March 18-21, 2026, at the AFI Campus in Los Angeles.1
Participants Selected
The selected cinematographers 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.
AFI’s Commitment to Inclusive Filmmaking
According to AFI Conservatory Cinematography Discipline Head Stephen Lighthill, ASC, the workshop is “designed to open doors for artists that have historically been excluded from careers in cinematography.”1 The program aims to provide a platform for emerging talent through lectures, hands-on exercises, and screenings.
Industry Expertise and Mentorship
Classes will be led by industry professionals and AFI Conservatory faculty, including Academy Award winner Autumn Durald Arkapaw, recognized in 2026 for her work on “Sinners.”3 Valentina Martinico and Dan Sasaki, Senior VP of Optical Engineering at Panavision, will also contribute to the workshop.1
Panavision’s Support
Kim Snyder, Panavision president and CEO, emphasized the company’s dedication to supporting up-and-coming cinematographers, stating that the initiative “plays a vital role in empowering up-and-coming cinematographers, offering a space to sharpen their craft, create meaningful connections, and build momentum at a pivotal moment in their careers.”1
Meet the Class of 2026
- Alice Boucherie: A French cinematographer based in New York City, Boucherie’s work has screened at prestigious festivals including Cannes, Tribeca, TIFF, Sundance, and SXSW.1
- Alexandria Jones: Based in Richmond, Virginia, Jones is a member of IATSE Local 487 and the International Cinematographers Guild.1
- Karson Kane: A Los Angeles-based cinematographer who studied at DePaul University, Kane’s work was featured at Sundance on the feature “Night Nurse” and the short “Birdie.”1
- Amanda Kowalski: Kowalski’s films have won multiple Boston/New England Emmys and screened at festivals worldwide. Her short “Crest of the Hill” was featured on NPR.org.1
- Julie Nhem: An Oregon-based cinematographer and IATSE Local 600 member, Nhem brings a global perspective to her work.1
- Emma Penrose: Penrose is a Director of Photography focused on narrative and analog experimental filmmaking, with screenings at festivals including Curtas International Festival and Ann Arbor Film Festival.1
- Shauna Presto: A Los Angeles-based cinematographer, Presto aims to capture raw, human moments in her work.1
- Melina Psarros: A Los Angeles-based Greek-American cinematographer from Rochester, New York, Psarros’s style is influenced by her background in dance and the fine arts.1
- Cat Rider: From Cincinnati, Ohio, Rider actively works as an artist, filmmaker, and photographer, adapting her style to the needs of each project.1
- Tania Romero: Based in Philadelphia and New York, Romero focuses on stories exploring border cultures, immigration, and human rights.1
- Kimani Schumann: A cinematographer from Los Angeles, Schumann strives to create textured, emotionally grounded imagery.1
- Carman Spoto: Spoto, from the Philadelphia area, merges philosophical themes with image-making practices in her work.1
The American Film Institute (AFI) offers a range of programs, including the AFI Conservatory, AFI Life Achievement Award, and AFI FEST.4
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