November 4, 2025

Otto Nemenz (1941–2025)

The British Society of Cinematographers joins with industry colleagues in mourning the passing of Otto Nemenz (1941-2025). This obituary was written by our friends at Cinegear:

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With heavy hearts, we share the passing of Otto Nemenz, founder of Otto Nemenz International, who left us on Saturday, November 1st, at the age of 83, surrounded by loved ones.

Otto’s story is one of vision, perseverance, and a lifelong dedication to the art and science of filmmaking. Born in Austria in 1941, Otto spent his youth between Austria, Greece, and Turkey before arriving in the United States in 1964 to pursue his dreams. From his early days as a lens technician at Panavision to his work on the film Grand Prix, Otto’s passion for precision optics and camera innovation set him apart.

In 1979, Otto founded Otto Nemenz International in a small storefront off Sunset Blvd. His commitment to excellence quickly established the company as a trusted name among cinematographers worldwide. By 1982, he had built the company’s Hollywood headquarters on Vine Street, and in 2020, celebrated the grand opening of a new 38,000-square-foot facility in Culver City—marking over four decades of trusted service to the global filmmaking community. In 1991, Otto Nemenz International received an Academy Award for Technical Achievement for the design and development of the Canon/Nemenz Zoom Lens.

Otto’s influence extended far beyond his company walls. As an associate member of the American Society of Cinematographers, a member of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, and a proud member of I.A.T.S.E. Local 600, he continuously championed innovation and craftsmanship in every aspect of production. His peers recognized his contributions with the ASC Award of Distinction in 2015 and the ASC Legacy Lifetime Achievement Award in 2023.

In 2024, Cine Gear Expo was honored to present Otto with our Lifetime Achievement Award, recognizing six decades of contributions that shaped the future of motion picture technology.

We will deeply miss Otto’s warmth, generosity, and unwavering commitment to the craft that has inspired generations of filmmakers. His legacy lives on in every frame captured with the tools and technologies he helped perfect.

Our hearts are with the Nemenz family and the entire Otto Nemenz International team during this difficult time.