WHAT THE BSC MEANS TO ME

BSC members and significant industry figures share the significant role the society has played in their lives and the wider filmmaking world. 

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“Being a part of an established society like the BSC has always been a dream of mine but I never actually thought it would become a reality. So when I was invited it was a shock. Over the years I’ve become a lot more involved in the BSC and have learned so much, and have made some invaluable personal connections with other DPs.  

To be able to lean on someone else’s experience and have someone to talk to, whether that’s professionally or even personally, is a huge privilege. I’m very honoured to be a part of the BSC.” 

Fabian Wagner ASC BSC 

“The British Society of Cinematographers is a body of cinematographers joined together to further the craft of photographing films. We are moving image makers, telling stories with light, composition and movement.   

The BSC holds a special place in my heart for a multitude of reasons. As a cinematography enthusiast, I have always been captivated by the magic of visual storytelling, and the BSC represents the pinnacle of excellence in this field. 

At BSC events I met Freddie Young, Jack Hildyard, Geoffrey Unsworth, John Alcott, and the remarkable Ossie Morris whose diverse filmmaking I have tried to emulate. So many more besides with new fresh talent being included yearly. 

To me, the BSC symbolises the unwavering dedication and passion that cinematographers bring to their craft. The society’s commitment to fostering creativity, originality, and collaboration serves as a constant source of inspiration, motivating me to push the boundaries of my own artistic vision.  

The BSC also plays an essential role celebrating special achievements in cinematography through its annual BSC Awards. These awards honour outstanding work in both theatrical feature films and television, acknowledging and appreciating the creativity of cinematographers. 

The BSC actively engages with the film and television community through initiatives such as BSC Expo, a very popular trade show event that brings together industry professionals, manufacturers, and educators and showcases the latest creations in the industry.” 

Remi Adefarasin OBE BSC 

“My heartfelt and sincere congratulations to The BSC on 75 richly inspiring years facilitated by hundreds of British artists. When I thought of the BSC at a young age, I had impressions of large-scale and elegant visuals consistently evoking a feeling of romance, coupled with the narrative impact experienced in the way BSC cinematographers created their worlds that were so different in their level of refinement and artistry. I felt that I could spot a film photographed by a BSC member simply by how the film felt. The work had presence. 

I grew to appreciate BSC members such as Freddie Young, Geoffrey Unsworth and Alex Thompson when I read about their experiences making films such as Lawrence of Arabia, Cabaret along with Excalibur – and absorbed the qualities of their personalities and sense of humour.  

Some decades later, when I shot my first film in The UK, I informed the BSC that I was in town and inquired if there was an appropriate event in which I might take part. I was soon inundated with invitations to various meetings and one day, after leaving dailies at the main theatre at Pinewood Studios, a group of BSC members was sitting in the lobby, waiting to enter the theatre after our screening was completed. 

‘Where do you think you’re going, Shelly? Turn around – we are about to screen some slow-motion tests shot on a digital camera.’ They marched me back into the theatre and from that point forward, I felt I had made at least 50 new friends. 

The BSC taught me just how small the global cinematography community really was. Demonstrative of how generous and genuine all cinematographers are towards their peers. 

The BSC’s consistent standard and relevance is not only admirable, it has influenced and changed the way people shoot films. Showing us the type of person a cinematographer needs to be. A class act and always will be.” 

Shelly Johnson ASC, President, American Society of Cinematographers 

“The strength of the BSC lies in what it gives back to the community. Not only does the organisation celebrate cinematography but, more importantly, it reaches out to a new generation.   

For myself, it was an honour to be asked into membership of the BSC. To be part of a community and get a chance to meet with my contemporaries and peers both enriched my perspective and helped stave off the feelings of isolation that, I am sure, any one of us can experience navigating what can be a political rather than creative industry. I have only the highest regard for all the members and staff who work so tirelessly on the publications, events, trade shows and Q&As that all of us have the luxury to enjoy.”   

Sir Roger Deakins CBE ASC BSC 

“Being a new member to the BSC has meant so much to me. I have always found cinematographers to be very collegiate; sharing knowledge, lighting and technological tips and stories. The BSC helps foster this camaraderie. It’s an honour to be part of such a tradition of respected cinematographers that came before us and to carry on that tradition.  

A special memory I have is being asked to sit on a panel at the 2024 BSC Expo as part of Stephen Murphy BSC ISC’s panel on shooting television series, especially a middle block. BSC Expo is an invaluable opportunity to get to know other BSC members and to answer questions from young up-and-coming cinematographers and this year being a part of that was a thrill.” 

Nicola Daley BSC ACS