Outstanding Cinematography
The Outstanding Cinematography category honors the visual storytellers who use the camera to craft unforgettable imagery and evoke emotion, immersing viewers in the world of the film. This year’s nominees have demonstrated remarkable artistry in their nominated works.
Ernest Cole: Lost and Found
Wolfgang Held & Moses Tau, Cinematographers
Wolfgang Held and Moses Tau bring an evocative visual style to Ernest Cole: Lost and Found, a documentary exploring the life and work of the South African photographer who captured the stark realities of apartheid. Their cinematography beautifully juxtaposes archival footage with modern sequences, creating a rich visual narrative that honors Cole’s legacy. This is the first Bolt nomination for both Held and Tau, marking a strong debut in this category.
Luther: Never Too Much
Bryan Gentry, Cinematographer
Bryan Gentry’s cinematography in Luther: Never Too Much captures the glamour and emotional depth of Luther Vandross’s life and career. Through dazzling concert recreations and intimate moments, Gentry’s work immerses audiences in the soulful world of the music legend. This is Gentry’s first Bolt nomination and nomination in this category, showcasing his exceptional talent.
Nickel Boys
Jomo Fray, Cinematographer
Jomo Fray’s hauntingly beautiful cinematography in Nickel Boys brings to life the grim and oppressive setting of a segregated reform school, while also capturing moments of hope and humanity. His work intensifies the emotional weight of the story. This is Fray’s second Bolt nomination and second in this category, following his win last year for All Dirt Roads Taste of Salt (2024).
Rez Ball
Kira Kelly, Cinematographer
Kira Kelly’s work on Rez Ball highlights the beauty and resilience of Indigenous communities while immersing viewers in the high-energy world of high school basketball. Her cinematography skillfully balances dynamic sports action with intimate personal moments. This is Kelly’s first Bolt nomination and first in this category, demonstrating her ability to capture both grandeur and nuance.
Suncoast
Bruce Francis Cole, Cinematographer
Bruce Francis Cole’s cinematography in Suncoast paints a vibrant and heartfelt portrait of a mother and daughter navigating their personal struggles in a sun-soaked Southern landscape. Cole’s lens captures both the beauty of the setting and the emotional intensity of the story. This is Cole’s first Bolt nomination and first in this category, marking a promising debut.