John Leake OAM ACS – Emerging Cinematographer Award

The Australian Cinematographers Society offers a $3,000 cash prize to an emerging Cinematographer. The award is to be used toward furthering the knowledge and experience of the applicant including, but not limited to, current study or international study, conference, workshop, master class, internship etc.

Panavision Australia proudly supports this award with a generous $25,000 camera and optics rental package, complemented with expert consultation and project support. Subject to applicable terms and conditions.

The John Leake OAM ACS Emerging Cinematographer award is open from 1 – 14 March 2026, Apply here>>>

The Award is named in honour of the Australian Cinematographers Society co- founder, John Leake OAM ACS (1927-2009). John began his cinematographic career as a 15-year-old with Movietone News in 1944 before moving on to Supreme Sound Studios. He served as both NSW President and Federal President of the ACS and was the Society’s Official Historian until his passing in 2009.