Camerimage Winners Announced: Judith Kaufmann’s ‘Late Shift’ Clinches Top Cinematography Prize

The Camerimage International Film Festival concluded its 2025 edition in Toruń, Poland. The prestigious event celebrated the art of cinematography with a grand closing gala. Veteran and emerging cinematographers were honored across multiple competition categories.

The festival’s top prize, the Golden Frog in the main competition, was awarded to Judith Kaufmann. Her work on Petra Biondina Volpe’s film “Late Shift” captivated the jury. The win solidifies Kaufmann’s reputation as a master of visual storytelling.

Major Wins Across Documentary and Television Categories

Judith Kaufmann’s winning film, “Late Shift,” is an intimate portrait of a nurse. It follows Flora, played by Leonie Benesch, during a single demanding hospital shift. The cinematography powerfully conveys the intense pressures on healthcare workers.

Other major awards were distributed throughout the night. The Silver Frog went to Fabian Gamper for “Sound of Falling.” The Bronze Frog was awarded to Michał Sobociński for “Chopin, A Sonata in Paris.”

In the documentary field, Benjamin Bryan won the Golden Frog for “Iron Winter.” The TV Series Competition Grand Prix went to Corrin Hodgson and Ben Richardson for “1923: A Dream and a Memory.” According to Reuters, the festival highlighted a strong year for European cinematography.

A Spotlight on Emerging Filmmaking Talent

The festival also dedicated significant attention to new talent. The Cinematographers’ Debuts Competition Golden Frog was won by Adam Suzin for “Father.” This recognition often serves as a major career launchpad for emerging artists.

Student films were celebrated with the Tadpole awards. The top Golden Tadpole went to Nico Schrenk for “Skin on Skin.” These awards are closely watched by industry insiders seeking the next generation of visual auteurs.

The Audience Award provided a popular counterpoint to the jury’s selections. It was given to Joachim Trier’s “Sentimental Value,” shot by Kasper Tuxen. This demonstrates the film’s broad appeal beyond critical acclaim.

The Camerimage 2025 winners list showcases a diverse and powerful year for global cinematography. These artists have pushed the boundaries of visual narrative. Their work will undoubtedly influence the look of cinema for years to come.

Thought you’d like to know

What film won the top prize at Camerimage 2025?

The Golden Frog in the main competition was awarded to Judith Kaufmann for her work on “Late Shift.” The film is directed by Petra Biondina Volpe. It is an intimate drama set in a hospital.

Who won the Audience Award?

The Audience Award went to Joachim Trier’s film “Sentimental Value.” The cinematographer for the project was Kasper Tuxen. This award is voted on directly by festival attendees.

Which student film won the Golden Tadpole?

The Golden Tadpole, or Laszlo Kovacs Student Award, was won by Nico Schrenk for “Skin on Skin.” The director was Simon Schneckenburger. The film was produced at the Filmakademie Baden-Württemberg.

Was there a winner from Poland?

Yes, Piotr Sobociński Jr. won the Grand Prix of the Polish Films Competition. He was recognized for his cinematography on “The Altar Boys.” This award highlights the best in national filmmaking.

What was the winning TV series?

The TV Series Competition Golden Frog was awarded to “1923: A Dream and a Memory.” The cinematographers were Corrin Hodgson and Ben Richardson. Ben Richardson also directed the episode.