Autumn Durald Arkapaw becomes first woman to win Best Cinematography Oscar for 'Sinners'

Autumn Durald Arkapaw made Academy Awards history after winning the Oscar for Best Cinematography for her work on the film Sinners at the 98th Academy Awards.

Her victory marked the first time a woman has won the award in the cinematography category. Arkapaw had already set a milestone earlier in the awards season as the first woman of colour to receive a nomination for cinematography at the Academy Awards.

The cinematographer, who is Filipino and African American Creole, accepted the award during the ceremony held in Hollywood. During her acceptance speech, she acknowledged the women working across the film industry and credited them for their support.

“I’m so honored to be here, and I really want all the women in the room to stand up, because I feel like I don’t get here without you guys,” Arkapaw said.

Following her remarks, women attending the ceremony stood from their seats and applauded. The response included actors, filmmakers and other guests present at the event.

Cinematography is one of the Academy Awards’ longstanding technical categories and recognises the visual work behind a film, including lighting, camera composition and movement. The category has historically been dominated by male nominees and winners since the awards began.

Arkapaw’s nomination and win represent a milestone in the category’s history. Her recognition reflects the increasing presence of women working in cinematography and other technical roles within the film industry.

The award also contributed to Sinners’ overall presence at the 2026 ceremony. The film received multiple nominations and several wins during the event.