
Photo Credit; Getty Images
Autumn Durald Arkapaw is having a moment that marks both a personal milestone and a historic shift in Hollywood. The cinematographer recently made history as the first woman of color to earn an Academy Award nomination for best cinematography, recognized for her work on Ryan Coogler’s film “Sinners.” Speaking on Variety’s Awards Circuit Podcast, Arkapaw reflected on what the nomination means to her after years of steady, determined work behind the camera.
“You dream about those things. It’s a dream come true,” Arkapaw said. While she has already received nominations from the British Society of Cinematographers, BAFTA, and the American Society of Cinematographers, the Oscar recognition still feels surreal. She admitted she has not fully processed the moment, noting that the film has been celebrated since its release in April and the pace has not slowed.
“Sinners” itself became part of awards history, earning 16 Oscar nominations and breaking the all time record. Arkapaw was quick to note that she was not the only one making history, pointing to the scale of the film’s overall recognition and the collaborative effort behind it.