The Evolution Mallorca International Film Festival (EMIFF) will run from 21 to 29 October 21 2025, in Palma de Mallorca, celebrating the art of film while promoting international collaboration and cultural exchange.
One of the festival’s most important pillars is the Cinematography Focus, celebrating its fourth edition as a vital platform to advance the craft of cinematography through education, networking, and recognition of artistic excellence.
This year’s distinguished program will pay tribute to Oscar-nominated cinematographer Phedon Papamichael ASC GSC, who will be honoured with the prestigious Cinematography Icon Award 2025 during the opening gala, alongside other prominent figures of the international film community.
Papamichael brings an extraordinary legacy to the Balearic Islands, having filmed more than forty-five feature films throughout his illustrious career. His professional journey began with Roger Corman’s production company, where he worked alongside future masters of cinematography such as Janusz Kamiński, Wally Pfister, and Mauro Fiore. His notable collaborations span acclaimed directors including Alexander Payne (Sideways, The Descendants, Nebraska), James Mangold (Walk the Line, Identity, Ford v Ferrari, Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny), and George Clooney (The Ides of March, The Monuments Men).
The veteran cinematographer has received two Academy Award nominations for Best Cinematography: first for Alexander Payne’s black-and-white masterpiece Nebraska (2013), and later for Aaron Sorkin’s The Trial of the Chicago 7 (2020). Papamichael continues the tradition of brilliant cinematographers honored as icons at EMIFF, following in the footsteps of Anthony Dod Mantle ASC BSC DFF; Erik Messerschmidt ASC; and Ed Lachman ASC.
“The Cinematography Focus represents our commitment to celebrating the art and vital craft of cinematography, which perfectly blends both the technical and creative sides of filmmaking,” said festival director Sandra Lipski. “Since establishing this program in 2022, we have built a thriving community where filmmakers can explore the latest technical innovations, engage in meaningful conversations about evolving shooting styles, and receive top-tier education from industry leaders. Daytime programs of masterclasses, panels, and the Gear Lounge are complemented by nightly film screenings throughout the Cinematography Focus, offering equal measures of training and inspiration.”
The 2025 Cinematography Focus is made possible thanks to strategic partnerships with leading industry sponsors and collaborators. Sony leads the initiative as main sponsor, providing cutting-edge camera technology and hosting exclusive panels with top cinematographers. Astera contributes innovative lighting solutions and presents the highly anticipated masterclass “Anatomy of a Scene.” Leitz showcases its precision optics and legendary lens craftsmanship throughout the Gear Lounge experience. Palma Pictures provides local production expertise and industry connections, while ARRI completes the partnership. Together, these partners create an unparalleled platform for cinematographers to experience the latest technological innovations and connect with industry leaders. The Focus also collaborates with key sector organizations and media, including the International Federation of Cinematographers (IMAGO), the Spanish Society of Cinematographers (AEC), Camera&Light magazine, British Cinematographer, and Film and Digital Times, whose involvement broadens the global reach of the program and underscores Mallorca as a central hub for the international film community.
Featured Program – Cinematography Focus 2025
Tuesday, October 21, 2025
18:00 – Opening Gala at Palau de Congressos: Presentation of the Cinematography Icon Award to Phedon Papamichael ASC GSC
Wednesday, October 22, 2025
10:00–14:00 – Cinematography Focus Gear Lounge at Sala Rivoli showcasing the latest equipment from Sony, Astera, and Leitz
11:30 – An Icon Talk with Phedon Papamichael, ASC GSC: An in-depth conversation exploring his early career, creative challenges, and collaborations with renowned directors
Thursday, October 23, 2025
10:00 – Masterclass: “Anatomy of a Scene” with cinematographer Jamie Ramsay BSC SASC, presented by Astera, analysing lighting techniques
12:00 – Panel: “Forging Your Path: Lessons from Top Cinematography Agents” with Bill Dispoto (DDA Talent), Steve Jacob (WPA), Rachael Taylor (London Independent Talent Group), and Agnès Lupión (AURA Collective), moderated by Rainer Lipski
18:30 – Spotlight Screening followed by Q&A with Phedon Papamichael, ASC, GSC
22:00 – Cinematography Networking Party (location TBA), Palma de Mallorca
Friday, October 24, 2025
10:00–14:00 – Cinematography Focus Gear Lounge at Sala Rivoli (continuation)
10:00 – British Cinematographer Panel presented by Sony, moderated by Zoe Mutter (Editor-in-Chief of British Cinematographer), featuring Phedon Papamichael, ASC, GSC and Oona Menges, BSC
12:00 – Camera&Light Magazine Panel moderated by Carmen V. Albert, Editor-in-Chief of Camera&Light
23:30 – Closing Cinematography Party at Lío, Palma de Mallorca
The Cinematography Focus continues to grow as a reference destination for cinematographers, directors, and industry professionals seeking to explore the latest technological advancements, network with colleagues, and gain inspiration from master practitioners of the craft.
Full access: *Cinematography Focus Pass* available for €49** at:
https://www.eventbrite.es/e/entradas-cinematography-focus-pass-21st-24th-oct-1686663077669
