The Canadian Society of Cinematographers is pleased to announce the recipients of the 2026 Special Awards. These honours recognize individuals whose exceptional contributions have advanced the art, craft, and community of cinematography in Canada. The CSC congratulates this year’s honourees for their dedication, leadership, and lasting impact on the Canadian motion picture industry.
THE BILL HILSON AWARD
For outstanding service contributing to the development of the motion picture industry in Canada. The Bill Hilson Award is named after the man who generated and regulated the procedures for film quality control in the early days of CBC Television.
Jane Tattersall
Jane Tattersall is one of Canada’s best known sound post-production professionals. In 1992, she won her first Genie Award for her work with bugs and mutants on David Cronenberg’s Naked Lunch. Jane has worked in Berlin, Brussels, London, Amsterdam, NYC, LA, Paris, and Tokyo. Jane listens – in conversations, and in everyday life, absorbing the sounds which might be useful one day in her work. Jane holds dear her experiences working with talented directors including Deepa Mehta, Clement Virgo, Sarah Polley, and Jaco Van Dormael. Jane started Tattersall Sound (later Tattersall Sound & Picture) and with her small team of talented partners achieved international respect for crafting sound to create character and story and for their company’s business expertise. She is currently the Managing Director of Picture Shop Toronto and continues to edit sound on select projects, with recent credits including The Vampire Lestat (AMC+) and The Testaments (Hulu/Disney+).
THE PRESIDENT’S AWARD
The President’s Award recognizes an individual whose leadership, dedication, and service have made an exceptional contribution to the Canadian Society of Cinematographers.
Penny Watier
Penny Watier is a respected film industry executive with more than 30 years of experience supporting Canada’s film and television production community. Throughout her career, she has held leadership roles with companies including ARRI Canada, William F. White International, PS Production Services, AC Lighting, and Moss LED. Now serving as Central Vice President of the Canadian Society of Cinematographers, Penny has been a driving force behind CSC initiatives, and continues to champion and support the Society’s members and long-term growth.
THE MASTERS AWARD
Presented to recognize individuals who have made an outstanding contribution to the art of cinematography.
Mark Irwin CSC ASC
Mark Irwin CSC ASC is an internationally acclaimed cinematographer whose career has influenced generations of filmmakers. A member of the Canadian Society of Cinematographers since 1970 and the American Society of Cinematographers since 1992, his credits include Videodrome, The Fly, RoboCop 2, There’s Something About Mary, Old School, and Dumb and Dumber. His distinctive visual style and decades of creative excellence have made him one of Canada’s most celebrated cinematographers.
THE CAMERA ASSISTANT AWARD OF MERIT
Sponsored by IATSE 667 & 669
For excellence and outstanding professionalism in the performance of camera assistant duties and responsibilities.
Craig Jewell, 1st AC
Craig Jewell is recognized for his continued excellence as a First Assistant Camera and for the professionalism, technical expertise, and consistency he brings to every production. Respected by colleagues throughout the industry, he has built a reputation as a dependable and highly skilled member of the camera department whose commitment to the craft exemplifies the standards of this award.
Patrick Paes, 2nd AC
Patrick Paes is an innovative Second Assistant Camera whose technical ingenuity and dedication have significantly improved the efficiency of complex camera workflows. Beyond excelling in the core responsibilities of his role, he is recognized for developing practical solutions for challenging camera systems, supporting his team both on and off set, and fostering a collaborative environment that strengthens every production.
THE CRAFTSPERSON AWARD OF MERIT
For excellence and outstanding professionalism in the collaborative art of cinematography. This award recognizes individuals whose expertise and craftsmanship help elevate the art of cinematography.
Angelo Colavechia, Camera Operator
Angelo Colavechia is one of Canada’s most respected camera operators, with a career spanning numerous feature films and television productions. A trusted collaborator to many of the country’s leading cinematographers, he is recognized for his technical expertise, professionalism, and ability to foster strong working relationships across every department on set. His commitment to excellence and collaborative approach have made him a valued member of countless productions throughout his career.