Black Cinematographers You Should Know
ARTHUR JAFA - Focused primarily on life through the eyes of black Americans, Arthur Jafa’s work has garnered no shortage of praise from his peers and big names. His credits include Julie Dash’s Daughters of the Dust, Spike Lee’s Crooklyn and music videos like Solange’s Cranes in the Sky.
ERNEST DICKERSON - Ernest Dickerson is a director in his own right. His directorial debut, Juice, is one of the most well known films in black cinema and his work is an staple in television. But he is arguably better known for his cinematography. Collaborating most with Spike Lee, his credits include Lee’s Do the Right Thing, She’s Gotta Have It, Malcolm X and Eddie Murphy’s Raw.
CYBEL MARTIN - Most commonly known in the world of shorts, Cybel’s style is often colorful and distinct. Her credits include films like The Gilded Six Bits, Lumiette and No Vagrancy. She’s currently working on the For The People television series as an Camera Operator.
MALIK SAYEED - In the game for 23 years Malik’s visuals are often hailed as bold and bright. His credits include Hype Williams’ Belly, Lee’s He Got Game, Beyoncé’s Lemonade and music videos for artists like Rihanna and Pharrell Williams.
BRADFORD YOUNG - A cinematographer constantly in demand, Bradford Young’s body of work is highly esteemed and growing. Known for a style that highlights and emphasizes the hues in black skin and other actors of color, his credits include Dee Rees Pariah, Ava’s Selma, A Most Violent Year, his Oscar nominated work on Arrival and recently Lucasfilm’s Solo.
KIRA KELLY - Starting out as an electrician in the lighting department, Kira Kelly has worked her way up in the film business as a gaffer on films and TV shows. Her credits include Ava DuVernay’s 13th and Queen Sugar.
HAN CHARLES - After years of working as an assistant cameraman for fellow Howard alum and friend Bradford Young, Han met and worked with Ava on 13th.Though he has recently forayed more into the world of producing, his work on the groundbreaking documentary won’t soon be forgotten. His other credits include Mr. SOUL!, and the upcoming 1 Angry Black Man.
JESSIE MAPLE - Considered the forerunner for directors like Spike Lee, Charles Burnett and Lee Daniels, Jessie Maple is widely regarded for her contributions to black cinema and cinema as a whole. The first black woman to join the International Photographers of Motion Picture & Television Union, she was also one of the first African-American woman to direct and create a feature-length dramatic film.
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