Sinners cinematographer Autumn Durald Arkapaw makes Oscars history as first woman to win in 98 years

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I was absolutely thrilled during the Oscars this year when Autumn Durald Arkapaw won Best Cinematography for Sinners! It was such a historic moment – she’s the first Black woman, and honestly, the first woman ever, to win that award. It really felt special to witness!

The Best Cinematography category has always been a part of the Oscars, but throughout its 98-year history, very few women have been nominated. Only four female cinematographers have ever received a nomination, including Arkapaw. The others are Rachel Morrison (for Mudbound), Ari Wegner (for The Power of the Dog), and Mandy Walker (for Elvis).

Arkapaw began her speech by honoring Ryan Coogler, the writer and director of Sinners, who also received the Oscar for Best Original Screenplay that evening.

Every time I thank Ryan, he turns it around and thanks me, saying he appreciates my faith in him and my trust. It’s amazing to work with someone so genuinely honorable – he really means what he says.

Arkapaw then mentioned Rachel Morrison, the first woman ever nominated for the Cinematography Oscar in 2017. He highlighted the most impactful part of her acceptance speech, where she asked all the women in the audience to stand, acknowledging her gratitude for their support and how she couldn’t have achieved this without them.

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Honestly, it means the world to me. I’ve been so touched by all the incredible women I’ve met on this campaign, and all the amazing people along the way. It really feels like these special moments happen because of you all, and I just want to say thank you from the bottom of my heart.

After winning and while still behind the scenes in the press room, Arkapaw shared an additional thought about her historic victory, as reported by The Hollywood Reporter.

I wrote down one thing I wanted to say: many young girls who share my background will feel empowered and hopeful tonight, and I truly believe that. Simply being up here, receiving this award for a film like this, will make a difference in so many girls’ lives by giving them inspiration they might not have had before.

Though Sinners didn’t win Best Picture, the night was still a success with four total wins, including Michael B. Jordan as Best Actor, a win for Coogler’s screenplay, and Ludwig Göransson earning his third Oscar for the Original Score.

Ryan Coogler didn’t win Best Director, with Paul Thomas Anderson taking home the award as many predicted. This continues a long-standing issue: no Black director has ever won an Oscar in this category.

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2026-03-16 12:50