About us

Swiss Cinematographers Society SCS is an association of professional cinematographers dedicated to the art and craft of cinematography. Our members form a diverse and accomplished community, united by a spirit of collaboration and a shared passion for visual storytelling. SCS serves as a cultural and professional platform for cinematographers and other industry members to exchange ideas on technical, aesthetic, and professional matters. We advocate for fair representation, improved working conditions and the recognition of cinematographers as authors of the cinematic image.

Through social events, film screenings and panels, we showcase the vital role of cinematography in visual storytelling. We are committed to promoting equality, diversity, and mutual respect and we stand firmly against all forms of discrimination. SCS maintains strong ties with both national and international organizations and is a proud member of IMAGO – the International Federation of Cinematographers – which connects societies from over fifty countries around the world.

Organisation

The Executive Board is composed of members who are elected annually by the General Assembly.

Stéphane Kuthy
Presidency
Meret Madörin
Vice Presidency
Aline László
Board
Patrick Tresch
Board
Michael Saxer
Board

History

In 1996, Philippe Cordey, Edwin Horak, Rainer Klausmann, Fritz A. Maeder and Hugues Ryffel founded the SCS under the name Société Suisse des Chefs-Opérateurs. These founding members wished to foster the exchange between Swiss cinematographers and with international colleagues, and they joined IMAGO that same year.

We remember the late members who contributed significantly to our association, who were supportive mentors and friends and whose work continues to inspire us to this day:

Hansueli Schenkel

Pio Corradi

Fritz E. Maeder

Matthias Kälin

Membership

The Swiss Cinematographers Society SCS currently has 45 members. Membership is by invitation.

Active membership

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To become an active member of SCS, candidates must meet the following criteria:
- At least six years of documented experience as a cinematographer.
- At least three full credits for feature-length fiction or documentary films, or a similar body of work, including series. These projects must be completed and released at the time of the application.
- A demonstrated skill and artistry in visual storytelling
- The desire to be part of a collegial and engaged community of cinematographers.
A candidate must be endorsed by an existing SCS member, who will act as their mentor in the nomination process.

The deadline for applications is November 30th. The yearly fee for active members is 200 CHF.

If you wish to become part of our association, please contact a member that you know to express your interest and ask for endorsement. Alternatively or if you have any additional questions, please don't hesitate to contact us per mail.
Honorary membership

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Honorary membership is open to members who are retired.