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Press Release: IMMEDIATE 14.02.2018
illuminatrix Collective Launches Platform for Emerging Cinematographers: illuminatrix rising
illuminatrix, the collective of professional female cinematographers in the UK, is proud to introduce illuminatrix rising, the new platform to promote emerging women cinematographers.
Despite a rise in the film industry’s awareness in diversity in front of and behind the camera, statistics show that the percentage of women working as Directors of Photography (DoPs) in feature films has barely changed in almost 20 years, from 4% in 1998 to 5% in 2016 (top 250 grossing films).
illuminatrix is a platform run by and for DoPs, to promote their work as cinematographers, and aims to change the disparity in the industry by providing an online resource for producers and directors to view their work. Through social media channels and events, illuminatrix hopes this exposure will lead to more opportunities for their members.
illuminatrix, whose membership requires at least five years working as a professional DoP, has now launched a sister platform, illuminatrix rising, to promote up and coming talent. Each month, two emerging DoPs will be profiled on the illuminatrix website, curate the dedicated instagram feed, as well as have the opportunity to be mentored by an illuminatrix member.
illuminatrix rising was officially launched with an event attended by the industry on the 1st of February 2018.
“Film is a magical medium and has a unique power to inspire and entertain. We must ensure that our art form continues to thrive, and we will only do that with proper diversity, both in front of and behind the camera. It is our duty to have a fair industry that not just selects the best for the job, but embraces a vibrant and rich community of storytellers that will inspire the next generation of film-making talent through their work. The existence of collectives like illuminatrix is key and I can't wait to see more from their DoPs and those that are motivated by their extraordinary work.”
Anna Higgs, Creative Director NOWNESS
Pinewood MBS Lighting is proudly supporting illuminatrix rising - Managing Director Darren Smith comments “illuminatrix have been inspirational in raising awareness of the work of female DoPs. This new initiative will expand their reach to help provide the next generation of talented Cinematographers the recognition they deserve. We are extremely proud of our association with illuminatrix rising; via our sponsorship we acknowledge that it's the day to day help and support with equipment, technical and career advice that can really make a difference. We look forward to a long, creative journey together”.
The first DoPs featured on illuminatrix rising were Simona Susnea and Diana Olifirova, whose work has been screened at Edinburgh International Film Festival, BFI Film Festival, Cannes Lions, Clermont – Ferrand, showcased and awarded by the British Society of Cinematographers and Kodak.
www.illuminatrixdops.com/illum
https://vimeo.com/illuminatrix
Photo album illuminatrix rising members
Supporting Research and Statistics:
The Celluloid Ceiling Report: http://womenin
“Cut Out of the Picture” Report, Directors UK (2005-2014): https://www.directors.uk.com/n
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