Janusz Kamiński

Janusz Kamiński is a celebrated Polish-American cinematographer and filmmaker, renowned for his longstanding collaboration with director Steven Spielberg.

Born in Ziębice, Poland, in 1959, Kamiński moved to the United States in the early 1980s, where he studied film at Columbia College Chicago and later at the American Film Institute (AFI) Conservatory. Over the past three decades, he has become one of the most respected and influential cinematographers in the film industry, known for his distinctive visual style characterized by dramatic lighting, fluid camera movement, and innovative use of natural light.

Kamiński rose to prominence with his work on Spielberg’s "Schindler's List" (1993), for which he won his first Academy Award for Best Cinematography. This black-and-white historical drama showcased his ability to blend stark realism with poignant artistry, solidifying his reputation as a master of visual storytelling. He won his second Oscar for his work on Spielberg’s "Saving Private Ryan" (1998), where his groundbreaking use of handheld cameras and desaturated color palette revolutionized the depiction of war on screen. Kamiński's unique visual language has since defined many of Spielberg’s most iconic films, including "Minority Report," "Munich," "War Horse," "Lincoln," "West Side Story," and "The Fabelmans."

Beyond his work with Spielberg, Kamiński has collaborated with other acclaimed directors, such as Julian Schnabel on "The Diving Bell and the Butterfly" (2007), which earned him an Academy Award nomination, and Cameron Crowe on "Jerry Maguire" (1996). As a director, Kamiński has helmed films like "Lost Souls" (2000) and "American Dream" (2006), further showcasing his versatility and creativity in the cinematic arts. His contributions to the film industry have been recognized with numerous awards, including BAFTAs, ASC Awards, and multiple nominations for his innovative and expressive cinematography.

Today, Janusz Kamiński continues to push the boundaries of his craft, blending traditional techniques with cutting-edge technology to create visually compelling stories. His work remains highly influential, inspiring a new generation of cinematographers and filmmakers around the world.