12/11/2024
Our statement on the recent article regarding CamerImage Festival:
Digital Orchard Group stands in full support of Women in Cinematography and other committed organisations advocating for greater gender equality within the field of cinematography. We share in the disappointment prompted by recent comments from Marek Żydowicz and reaffirm our unwavering commitment to fostering an inclusive, diverse film industry where all professionals have an equal opportunity to thrive
Our dedication to gender equality extends beyond words to active collaboration and advocacy. In partnership with the IMAGO Diversity and Inclusion Committee, our Digital Orchard Foundation submitted a set of detailed proposals to CamerImage following the ongoing lack of representation, underscored by the stark statistic that, since 1993, only 3% of films selected by the festival have been lensed by female cinematographers. This disproportionate representation reflects a troubling pattern that must change now, as it fails to acknowledge the full spectrum of talent within the industry. Sadly these proposals were roundly ignored at the time
These proposals aimed to encourage the implementation of inclusive selection criteria that would support greater visibility and recognition for female and under-represented cinematographers. We hoped to foster a shift beyond occasional diversity panels toward a more systemic, long-term inclusion model, also supporting panels at CamerImage in collaboration with collectives such as & to aid this. Though CamerImage has not yet taken up these proposed initiatives, we remain steadfast in our efforts and commitment to maintaining a strong policy of diversity and inclusion throughout all we do
The film industry benefits most when it uplifts the entire breadth of diverse talent within it. Digital Orchard Group proudly stands with Women in Cinematography, the IMAGO D&I Committee, and others as we advocate for a future where gender equality is a foundational value in cinematography
