Robbie Ryan Wins Inaugural Visionary Cinematography Award at EnergaCamerimage Festival

Robbie Ryan has received the first-ever Visionary in Cinematography Award. The honor was presented at this year’s EnergaCamerimage festival in Poland. The Irish cinematographer is celebrated for his incredibly diverse and influential body of work.

His career spans raw realism and bold fantasy. Ryan’s philosophy is that the story must always dictate the visual style. This approach has made him one of the most respected Directors of Photography working today.

From Handheld Realism to Vistavision Experimentation

Ryan’s collaborations define his range. He began with the intense, handheld style of director Andrea Arnold. He then adopted the fixed, long-lens technique of Ken Loach. According to The Hollywood Reporter, his work is always in service of the narrative.

His recent partnerships with Yorgos Lanthimos showcase radical experimentation. For Poor Things, Ryan used tiny 6mm lenses to create a vignetted, otherworldly look. His latest project, Bugonia, was shot on large-format VistaVision, a challenging and rare choice.

The Enduring Magic of Film in a Digital Age

Despite the industry’s digital shift, Ryan remains a celluloid advocate. He believes film possesses a unique, magical quality that digital cannot replicate. He argues that film has a distinct identity and an inherent alchemy that resonates with audiences.

Shooting on large formats like VistaVision or IMAX also draws people to cinemas. Ryan points to Paul Thomas Anderson’s recent work as a genius example of promoting the theatrical experience. This commitment to film’s texture keeps his work visually distinct and deeply cinematic.

Robbie Ryan’s career demonstrates that creative adaptability is the true mark of a visionary. His dedication to Poor Things cinematography and the art of film ensures his continued influence for years to come.

Info at your fingertips

What is Robbie Ryan known for?

He is known for his incredible stylistic range. Ryan moves seamlessly between gritty realism and highly stylized fantasy. His work includes films like *The Favourite* and *I, Daniel Blake*.

What camera was used for *Bugonia*?

The film was shot using a rare VistaVision camera. This large-format camera is known for its high-resolution and unique image quality. It was a technical challenge that Ryan and Lanthimos embraced.

Did *Poor Things* win any awards for cinematography?

Yes, the film was widely acclaimed for its visual style. It won the Academy Award for Best Cinematography. The film’s inventive use of lenses was a major factor in its success.

What is Robbie Ryan’s preferred filming format?

Ryan is a strong proponent of shooting on physical film. He believes it has an alchemy and magic that digital lacks. He continues to champion celluloid for its unique texture and identity.

Who has Robbie Ryan frequently collaborated with?

He has long-standing creative partnerships with several directors. These include Andrea Arnold, Ken Loach, and Yorgos Lanthimos. Each director has drawn a different visual approach from him.