The Cinematography of Today Conference Lisbon (June 24–26, 2026) Universidade Lusófona

Cinematography of Today

Call for Papers

International Conference (June 24–26, 2026)
Universidade Lusófona 

Lisbon, Portugal.          

About the Conference

The Cinematography of Today conference invites scholars, educators, researchers, and practitioners to explore the evolving art, craft, and theory of cinematography. This three-day event seeks to foster dialogue between academic research and professional practice, addressing the aesthetic, technical, educational, and ethical dimensions that shape contemporary image-making.

As digital and analog practices, immersive technologies, and artificial intelligence redefine the cinematographic landscape, this conference offers a space for reflection, experimentation, and exchange among cinematographers, educators, students, and researchers from around the world.

Topics of Interest

We welcome proposals for academic papers, practice-based research presentations, case studies, and roundtable discussions on (but not limited to) the following topics:

I. Cinematography as Art and Practice

Cinematographer as author: shaping meaning, perception, and audience subjectivity.
Gaze, power, and identity in visual storytelling.
Embodiment and movement in cinematic space.
Collaborative authorship and case studies: director/ cinematographer dynamics.

II. Technology, Innovation, and Materiality

Evolution of cameras, lenses, and lighting as creative tools.
LED studios, virtual production, and immersive environments.
AI, CGI, and ethical considerations in posthuman visuality.
Color science, psychology, and perceptual impact.
Analogue processes and slow cinema aesthetics.
Sustainable and eco-conscious production practices.

III. Education, Methodology, and Ethics

Pedagogical approaches and fostering creativity in cinematography.
Student projects, theses, and practice-based research projects.
Professional ethics, labor, and working conditions.
Inclusion, diversity, and gender in film education and industry.
Mentorship and intergenerational knowledge transfer.

IV. History, Archives, and Research

History of cinematography and the evolving role of the cinematographer.
Archives, preservation, and cinematic memory.
Scholarship connecting theory and practice.
Practice-based, autoethnographic, and collaborative methodologies.
Community-based filmmaking and participatory visual practices.
Neuroscience and perception in cinematography.
Film studies perspectives on cinematic language and spectatorship.

Submission Guidelines

Abstract length: 300–500 words
Submission format: PDF or Word document, including title, author(s), institutional affiliation(s), and email. Language: English (Portuguese or Spanish submissions are also accepted). Optional: Include up to 3 images, or videos if relevant to practice-based research

Key Dates

Abstract Submission Deadline: March 24, 2026
Notification of Acceptance: April 24, 2026
Registration Deadline: May 24, 2026
Conference Dates: June 24–26, 2026
Final Paper Submission for Conference Book: July 24, 2026

Format

Presentations may take the form of: 20-minute paper presentations of Practice-based demonstrations, roundtable or panel discussions.

Publication

Selected papers and projects will be included in the conference proceedings and a peer-reviewed book of essays, Cinematography of Today, to be published following the event.

Submission Fees:

Researchers with an accepted paper and presentation: €150.
General participants attending all three days: €150.

Free attendance for:

Members of the CITO Association (enrolled for 2026)
Professors participating in the BIP program
Students

Submission:

Submission for papers and registration link

For case studies, roundtable discussions, or any questions about the process, please email: emilia.lloret@gmail.com