Sara Kinney

I am an American cinematographer known for an emotionally resonant, poetic naturalism. I love the challenge of finding new ways to bring complex stories to the screen. I’ve shot for National Geographic, HBO, Vice News, Showtime, Channel4, and Disney on issues such as political conflict, women’s rights, wildlife conservation, gender identity, and the intersection of art and technology. I’m attracted to stories about marginalized cultures and visionary outsiders. I have a BFA from Pratt Institute, and went on to receive my MFA in cinematography from the American Film Institute, where I was nominated for an ASC student heritage award. I’m a member of the Society of Camera Operators, I shoot aerials (FAA-107 certified), enjoy shooting underwater (PADI certified diver), am a Phantom technician, and make my own hot sauce. Season two of The World According to Jeff Goldblum, which I shot for National Geographic, was nominated for an Emmy. My work has screened at Sundance, TriBeCa, SXSW, and festivals all over the world. The feature-length documentary The Stroll premiered at Sundance 2023 and won the special jury prize for ‘Clarity of Vision’. It is currently streaming on HBO (Max).