About us

The ACS is a non-political society of crafts people wishing to further develop their skills through mutual cooperation. Membership is open to all persons involved or associated with the motion picture and television industry.

Julia Stone – We All Have
Tyson Perkins

The ACS is a non-political society of crafts people wishing to further develop their skills through mutual cooperation. Membership is open to all persons involved or associated with the motion picture and television industry.

What is a Cinematographer?

A cinematographer is the author of the moving image, using technical and artistic expertise to create moving images that tell the story through light, shadow and composition.

The Australian Cinematographers Society was established to:

  • Further the advancement of cinematography in all fields and give due recognition to the outstanding work performed by Australian cinematographers.
  • Keep members abreast of technology, new equipment and ideas through meetings, seminars and demonstrations.
  • Provide a forum for cinematographers to meet with other members of the industry to discuss and exchange ideas, promote friendship and better understanding of each others industry role.

A brief history…

The Australian Cinematographers Society was founded by a group of cinecamera people in Sydney in 1958 and was originally the exclusive domain of film cameramen. Its Articles of Association were finalised in 1960. With the influx of portable video cameras the Society opened its doors to all types of cinematographers and the membership now reflects the changing face of the industry with its increasing digitalisation.

Over the years the Society has expanded considerably and now has a membership of over 1,700 Australia wide. It operates branches in every State of Australia, as well as the ACT and NT, with annual Award Presentations being held in New South Wales (incorporating the ACT), South Australia (incorporating Western Australia), Queensland (incorporating the NT) and Victoria (incorporating Tasmania).

The culmination of the State Awards brings together the finest camera work, produced during that year, to form The National Awards. The best entry in each National category is presented a Golden Tripod Award and the coveted Milli Award is presented to The Cinematographer of the Year. The ACS Awards inspire Australian Cinematographers to greater future achievement.

Each Branch regularly conducts evenings of a technical and social nature for the benefit of all members, whether they be new or experienced. In addition, each Branch keeps members in touch through technical articles and personal experiences published in their newsletters.

The ACS is a non-political society of crafts people wishing to further develop their skills through mutual cooperation. Membership is open to all persons involved or associated with the motion picture and television industry.

The ACS supports equal opportunity employment and family friendly worksites.

A Detailed History of the ACS » – By Syd Wood ACS, Foundation President of the ACS