As a founding member of the Hungarian Cinematographers’ Association, what was your vision for the organization when it was first established, and how do you feel it has evolved?

As a founding member of the Hungarian Cinematographers’ Association, my initial vision was rooted in a desire to foster a more inclusive and equitable environment for all cinematographers, particularly women, within our burgeoning film industry.

When we first established the association, I needed to create a space where the challenges faced by underrepresented groups, like female directors of photography, could be openly acknowledged and addressed. My vision was for an organization that would not only celebrate the artistry and technical skills of Hungarian cinematographers but also actively work towards dismantling the systemic barriers that prevent women from reaching their full potential in this field.

I envisioned an association that would:

• Legitimize the issue of underrepresentation: To make it clear that the low number of female cinematographers was not an anomaly but a problem that needed conscious effort to rectify.
• Foster a supportive community: To create a network where female cinematographers could find mentorship, support, and a sense of belonging, countering the isolation I experienced early in my career. I wanted to see the development of a “sisterhood” akin to the existing male networks.
• Educate and sensitize the broader film community: To raise awareness among male colleagues, producers, and other industry professionals about the biases and outdated notions that hinder women’s progress in cinematography.
• Advocate for change: To actively seek and implement solutions inspired by successful models from other countries, such as the US organizations like Women in Media and the Vision Committee at ASC. I hoped to adapt and introduce similar initiatives in Hungary.
• Promote the ‘female gaze’: To champion the unique perspectives and storytelling possibilities that female cinematographers bring to the art form, enriching the overall cinematic landscape and ensuring a more representative portrayal of reality on screen.
• Work towards a more livable work environment: Inspired by the insights from my key electrician, I envisioned an association that would promote a more respectful and less bullying environment on set through increased female leadership.

Looking at how the Hungarian Cinematographers’ Association has evolved, I feel that while progress has been made, there is still a significant journey ahead. The fact that the percentage of working female cinematographers in Hungary remains considerably lower than in places like the US indicates that the initial vision of true inclusivity is yet to be fully realized.

However, I am hopeful. The growing awareness of the importance of diversity and inclusion globally, coupled with the efforts of individuals and potentially the association itself, suggests that the conversation is moving in the right direction. I believe the foundation has been laid, and with continued dedication and proactive initiatives, the Hungarian Cinematographers’ Association can play a vital role in fostering a more diverse, equitable, and ultimately, more artistically rich film industry in Hungary.

You were the only Hungarian woman to film a feature film as a cinematographer for over 15 years. What challenges did you face in this field, and how did you overcome them?

While it’s true that the landscape for female cinematographers in Hungary has presented significant obstacles, and I might not claim to have fully “overcome” all of them on an individual level, I am immensely proud of the strides we are making within the Hungarian Cinematographers’ Association (HCA) to address these very issues.

For over fifteen years, being the sole Hungarian woman to have lensed a feature film came with a unique set of challenges. Early on, simply gaining recognition and being taken seriously as a director of photography in such a male-dominated field required persistent effort and often overcoming preconceived notions about a woman’s capabilities in a traditionally technical and leadership role. There were instances where I felt I had to work harder to prove my technical expertise and command on set. The lack of a strong network of female peers and mentors also meant navigating this path largely on my own.

While these personal challenges persist to some extent for women in the field, my focus has shifted toward creating systemic change. This year, within the HCA, we launched the HCA Mentorship Program for Women, a significant step towards providing the support and guidance that was often missing for me and continues to be crucial for emerging female talent. Furthermore, we organized a landmark event during the 44th Hungarian Filmweek: the first-ever in-person talk specifically focused on female filmmakers. This event provided a vital platform for discussion, networking, and raising awareness about the experiences and contributions of women in Hungarian cinema.

So, while the personal journey has been challenging, I find immense satisfaction and a sense of progress in actively working to dismantle these barriers for future generations through the HCA. We are building a more supportive and inclusive environment, and I believe these collective efforts will ultimately lead to a more equitable and diverse landscape for cinematographers in Hungary.

Being nominated for the Palme d’Or at the Cannes Film Festival must have been an incredible experience. What was it like to be part of such a prestigious event, and how did it impact your work going forward?

Being nominated for the Palme d’Or at the Cannes Film Festival was truly an unforgettable and transformative experience. The moment I first saw our film, “The Execution,” projected onto the massive screen of the Palais des Festivals remains etched in my memory. There’s an almost surreal quality to witnessing your work presented on such a grand stage, knowing the legacy of filmmakers and cinematic masterpieces that have graced that very screen.

Beyond the screening itself, simply walking the Croisette, the iconic promenade bustling with legendary actors, directors, and fellow filmmakers, felt like stepping into the heart of cinema history. It was an incredibly inspiring and humbling experience to be part of that vibrant energy and to feel connected to the global filmmaking community.

Perhaps the most significant impact of the Palme d’Or nomination was the doors it opened for my career. It undeniably elevated my profile internationally and directly led to opportunities to work as a cinematographer in the United States. That recognition provided a crucial validation of my work and gave me the confidence and platform to pursue projects on a larger scale.

Looking back, the entire experience was a profound affirmation of my path as a cinematographer. It not only provided incredible personal memories but also served as a pivotal moment that significantly shaped the trajectory of my career, allowing me to expand my horizons and work on projects I might not have otherwise had access to.

As a woman in a field traditionally dominated by men, what advice would you give to young female cinematographers who are just starting their careers?

As a woman who has navigated the often challenging terrain of cinematography in a male-dominated field, my advice to young female cinematographers just starting their careers would be multifaceted:

1. Hone Your Craft Relentlessly: First and foremost, focus on becoming an exceptional cinematographer. Master the technical aspects, study light, composition, and storytelling through visuals. Your talent and skill will ultimately speak volumes and are the foundation of your career. Don’t let anyone dismiss you based on your gender; let your work be your strongest advocate.
2. Build Your Community: Seek out and connect with other cinematographers, both male and female. Form supportive networks where you can share experiences, learn from each other, and collaborate. Don’t hesitate to reach out to those whose work you admire. As I learned in film school, the informal “brotherhood” can be powerful, so actively work to build your own supportive circle.
3. Find Mentors and Be a Mentor: Look for experienced cinematographers who can offer guidance and support. Don’t be afraid to ask for advice. Equally important, as you progress in your career, remember to pay it forward and mentor those who are just starting out. We need to build a strong support system for women in this field.
4. Embrace Your Unique Perspective: Your experiences as a woman offer a unique lens through which you see the world and tell stories. Don’t try to blend in or conform to traditional expectations. Embrace your perspective – what some call the ‘female gaze’ – and let it inform your visual storytelling. Your distinct viewpoint is a strength.
5. Be Persistent and Resilient: You will likely encounter roadblocks and biases. Don’t let them discourage you. Develop resilience, learn from every experience (both positive and negative), and keep pushing forward. Believe in your talent and your vision.
6. Speak Up and Lead with Confidence: On set, your voice matters. Don’t be afraid to express your ideas, advocate for your vision, and lead your crew with confidence. Charisma and dependability are not gender-specific traits.
7. Seek Solutions, Not Just Recognition of the Problem: While it’s important to acknowledge the challenges, don’t stop there. Be proactive in seeking solutions. Look for organizations and initiatives that support women in film, and consider how you can contribute to positive change.
8. Know Your Worth and Advocate for Yourself: Don’t undervalue your skills and contributions. Be prepared to negotiate for fair compensation and opportunities.
9. Remember You Are Not Alone: While my own journey might have felt solitary at times, know that there is a growing global movement to support women in film. Connect with these communities, share your experiences, and draw strength from knowing you are part of a larger effort.

Ultimately, your passion, dedication, and talent are what will drive your success. While the path may have added challenges, remember that your unique perspective and the work you create will enrich the world of cinema. Be fearless, be bold, and never stop learning.

As a juror at Film O’Clock, what are the key criteria you focus on when evaluating a film? How do you define what makes a film truly memorable?

As a juror at Film O’Clock, I approach the evaluation of each film with a keen eye for several key criteria, drawing from my own experiences as a cinematographer. Given my background, the visual storytelling is naturally one of the first aspects that captures my attention. I look for how effectively the cinematography – the lighting, camera movement, composition, and overall visual language – serves the narrative and contributes to the film’s atmosphere and emotional impact. Does it enhance the story or merely exist as a backdrop?

Beyond the visuals, the strength and originality of the narrative are paramount. Even in a short format, a film needs a compelling core idea, well-developed characters (even if briefly sketched), and a clear sense of purpose. I appreciate films that take risks, offer fresh perspectives, and aren’t afraid to explore complex themes or unconventional structures.

Emotional resonance is another crucial factor. Does the film evoke a genuine emotional response? Does it make me think, feel, or question something? A truly successful film, regardless of genre, should connect with the viewer on an emotional level.

I also pay close attention to the technical execution of the film as a whole. This includes the quality of the editing, sound design, acting performances, and overall production value. While budget limitations are often a reality for short films, I look for filmmakers who have made the most of their resources to create a cohesive and polished final product.

Finally, I value clarity of vision. Does the filmmaker have a distinct artistic voice, and is that voice effectively communicated through the film? Is there a sense of intention behind every creative choice?

For me, what makes a film truly memorable is its ability to linger in my thoughts and emotions long after the credits have rolled. It’s a film that offers a unique perspective or insight, perhaps challenging my assumptions or showing me something in a way I haven’t seen before. A memorable film often evokes a strong emotional connection, resonating with me on a personal level. It’s also about exceptional craftsmanship and a distinct artistic voice that leaves a lasting impression. Ultimately, a memorable short film manages to be both concise and impactful, leaving you wanting more or prompting further reflection.

Film O’Clock celebrates the universal connection through cinema. What does this concept mean to you personally?

The universal connection through cinema is profound, showcasing our shared humanity through visual language. Film transcends spoken words and resonates with audiences globally, evoking emotions that speak to our core. Film O’Clock embodies this by showcasing diverse stories, reminding us that human emotions are universal. Diverse voices in filmmaking are essential, and the female gaze enriches our understanding. Cinema breaks down barriers, fosters understanding, and connects us through shared experiences.