The 40th Annual American Society of Cinematographers (ASC) Awards took place on March 8, 2026, at the Beverly Hilton in Beverly Hills, California, celebrating a milestone in the art of cinematography. Hosted by actor Kerri Kenney-Silver, the ceremony brought together over 1,100 nominees, honorees and supporters, marking a significant evolution since the inaugural event, which had just 100 attendees.
This year’s ceremony not only recognized outstanding achievements in film and television but as well provided a nostalgic look back at the ASC’s 40-year legacy. The ASC Awards Program Book, available for livestream viewers, detailed the night’s honorees and chronicled the Society’s milestones since its inception in 1986.
ASC President Mandy Walker opened the show, setting the stage for a night filled with recognition and celebration. The event featured various awards, including categories for television, documentaries, and music videos, showcasing the diverse talent in the industry.
Key Awards and Winners
Among the notable awards presented during the evening were:
- Episode of a Half-Hour Series Award: Adam Newport-Berra for The Studio — “The Oner.” This marked Newport-Berra’s first ASC Award nomination, and he also won an Emmy Award for the same project in 2025.
- Career Achievement in Television Award: M. David Mullen, ASC, presented by Rachel Brosnahan. Mullen’s cinematography has defined the visual style of series like The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel and earned him two ASC Awards and three Emmy Awards.
- Documentary Award: Mstyslav Chernov and Alex Babenko for 2000 Meters from Andriivka. This was their first ASC Award nomination, highlighting their impactful work in documentary filmmaking.
- Curtis Clark ASC Technology Award: Kodak, recognized for its long-standing contribution to the film industry.
- Music Video Award: Rodrigo Prieto, ASC, AMC for “The Fate of Ophelia” performed by Taylor Swift. This marked Prieto’s fifth ASC Award nomination and his first win.
Special Recognitions
The evening also included special awards that honored contributors to the cinematography community:
- ASC Award of Distinction: Stephen Pizzello, editor-in-chief of American Cinematographer, received this award for his leadership over three decades.
- Presidents Award: Cynthia Pusheck, ASC, acknowledged for her dedication as a longtime governor and a founding co-chair of the Society’s Vision Committee.
Legacy and Impact
The 40th ASC Awards not only celebrated the current achievements in cinematography but also reflected on the industry’s evolution since its inception. The opening reel, introduced by ASC Awards Committee Chair Chuck Minsky, showcased the rich history and artistic progression that the ASC has championed over four decades.
As the night unfolded, it became clear that the ASC Awards serve not only to honor individual talent but also to inspire future generations of cinematographers. The recognition of emerging talents alongside established professionals highlights the ASC’s commitment to fostering creativity and innovation in visual storytelling.
Looking ahead, the ASC continues to be a pivotal organization in the film and television industry, advocating for the art of cinematography and supporting its members. This anniversary celebration reaffirms the Society’s mission to celebrate excellence whereas inspiring new talent to push the boundaries of visual storytelling.
For those interested in the latest in cinematography, the ASC Awards offer a unique glimpse into the creativity and technical skill that drive the industry forward. As discussions continue on social media platforms, fans and professionals alike are encouraged to share their thoughts on the winners and the future of cinematography.
