Cinematographer Autumn Durald Arkapaw has shattered another glass ceiling in Hollywood. Her nomination for Sinners makes her the first woman of color ever recognized in the cinematography category. She also becomes only the fourth woman in Oscar history to receive this honor.
The historic nomination comes for her work on Ryan Coogler’s vampire film set in the 1930s. Sinners received a record-breaking 16 Academy Award nominations overall. Arkapaw previously collaborated with Coogler on Black Panther: Wakanda Forever in 2022.
Groundbreaking Team of Women of Color Behind Sinners
Arkapaw joins fellow nominees Hannah Beachler and Ruth E. Carter in making history. All three women of color served as department heads on Sinners. Beachler handled production design while Carter created the costume designs.
“I’m just so honored every time I get to stand next to Ryan and make a film with him,” Arkapaw said. She praised working alongside women who inspire her daily. The team’s collective recognition represents a breakthrough moment for representation in technical categories.
Personal Connection to Story Rooted in Family History
The New Orleans setting held deep personal meaning for Arkapaw. Her father was born in New Orleans and her great-grandmother came from Mississippi. These family connections drew her closer to the film’s narrative and themes.
“When I read the story, it felt very close to home,” she explained. The cinematographer described pouring herself into the work to honor her ancestors. She emphasized that great films require artists to invest their personal histories and emotions into the project.
Revolutionary 65-Millimeter IMAX Format Creates Visual Spectacle
Coogler initially envisioned shooting the film in 16-millimeter format. The studio then approached him about exploring large-format possibilities. The director immediately called Arkapaw to discuss the creative opportunity.
They tested multiple formats before selecting 65-millimeter IMAX. The production utilized both 15-perf and 5-perf IMAX formats throughout the film. Combining these formats for the first time created a unique viewing experience with dramatic ratio shifts.
Technical Challenges Pushed Creative Boundaries on Set
Operating large IMAX cameras presented significant logistical challenges. Arkapaw’s team treated the massive equipment like smaller, more mobile cameras. This approach maintained their preferred dynamic camera movement throughout production.
“Focus-pulling is not easy on a film like this,” Arkapaw acknowledged. Her crew’s dedication stemmed from respect for Coogler’s leadership and vision. The director consistently reminded the team they were creating a theatrical experience for audiences.
Husband-and-Wife Cinematography Team Balances Career and Family
Arkapaw shares her Altadena home with husband Adam Arkapaw, also a cinematographer. The couple coordinates their schedules to balance work and caring for their son. Their mutual understanding of the demanding profession strengthens their partnership.
“It’s kind of a team effort,” she said about their arrangement. While they support each other’s careers, they avoid excessive work discussions at home. The couple recognizes the importance of separating professional challenges from family time.
Operating Camera Allows Intimate Connection to Performances
Arkapaw serves as her own camera operator on productions. She maintains direct eye contact with actors through the viewfinder during filming. Coogler typically sits beside her during these crucial moments of capture.
“If I don’t feel it, then I don’t feel the audience can,” she explained. Her approach prioritizes emotional authenticity over technical perfection. This philosophy creates moments where filming transcends moviemaking and becomes genuinely lived experience.
Viral Explainer Video Educated Audiences About Format Choices
Coogler created an educational video explaining the various projection formats. The video detailed how different theaters would present unique viewing experiences. His thoughtful approach to audience education generated unexpected viral attention.
Arkapaw recalled the moment at Playa Vista IMAX headquarters when Coogler proposed the idea. His enthusiasm for helping audiences understand their technical choices reflected his commitment to the theatrical experience. The video’s popularity demonstrated moviegoers’ appetite for behind-the-scenes insight.
Preferred Viewing Format Showcases Original Creative Vision
The cinematographer recommends viewing Sinners in IMAX 70-millimeter full-frame projection. This format best represents her original framing decisions for both aspect ratios. She composed shots for both the 1.43:1 IMAX ratio and 2.76:1 Ultra Panavision format.
Only about 40 theaters worldwide possess 70-millimeter IMAX projection capability. The film played in approximately 11 of these venues globally. Arkapaw encouraged audiences to seek out this premium format whenever possible.
Recognition Reflects Growing Diversity in Technical Categories
The Academy’s recognition of Arkapaw signals progress in cinematography representation. Her nomination follows decades of male dominance in the category. Only three other women have ever received cinematography nominations before her.
Working with Coogler consistently provides opportunities to break new ground. Their collaboration on Wakanda Forever featured extensive underwater filming with live actors. Each project presents fresh challenges that expand possibilities for future filmmakers.
Award Season Continues Through March Ceremony
The 98th Academy Awards take place March 15 at the Dolby Theatre. Conan O’Brien will host the ceremony, which airs live on ABC. Streaming options include Hulu for viewers across the country.
Final Oscar voting runs from February 26 through March 5. Academy members will evaluate all nominated cinematography before casting ballots. Arkapaw’s historic nomination ensures her place in Oscar history regardless of the final outcome.