The Fresh Perspectives in Cinematography grant program was offered exclusively to previous cohorts of the ASC Vision Mentorship Program. Along with our partners at ARRI and the ASC, we strive to support creatives who bring their distinctive voices, backgrounds and experiences to the craft of cinematography. These fresh perspectives push boundaries, challenge norms, and break new ground in visual storytelling.
Three emerging cinematographers are being granted the distinct opportunity to share their unique perspectives through the capture of cinematic images while using the highest quality equipment.
The recipients, chosen by a committee comprised of AbelCine and ARRI representatives, will each receive:
- A generous ARRI camera equipment rental credit valid at AbelCine's NY or LA rental locations
- An ARRI Orbiter lighting rental package
- A hands-on camera technology onboarding session for the DP and camera crew
- Access to selected ASC cinematographers who can advise on the project at specific check-in intervals
They will also be given an opportunity to discuss work and screen footage at two industry events: the first during Cine Gear Expo NY (March 10-11, 2023), and the second during Cine Gear Expo LA (June 1-4, 2023).
Meet this year's recipients:
Jesse Aragon
Jesse Aragon is a Los Angeles-based Director of Photography. He is a graduate of San Diego State’s School of Television & Film Program. He has been working professionally for the past ten years, filming short and feature-length narrative projects, commercials, television, and music videos.
The projects Jesse has worked on have received multiple awards and recognition in Cinematography including La Ramona, Ugly Ducklings, Wild Faith, Pretty Boy, and Can You Take My Picture. His recent work includes the feature-length film The Ballad of a Coyote, a border town drama set in the Southwest, and Gimme My Money, an action comedy set in the background of a busy downtown Los Angeles.
Jesse’s photographic influences derive from the nuances of everyday life, visual arts, and exposure to different cultures, ideas, and environments. He strives to photograph stories about people, basic human conditions, and themes that span across our differences in language, culture, and backgrounds.
jessearagon.com | Instagram: @jessearagon7
Siwei Li
Siwei Li was born and raised in Chengdu, China. He is an award-winning cinematographer based in Los Angeles. He is a BAFTA newcomer and an ASC Vision Program Mentee.
Siwei graduated from the cinematography program at American Film Institute Conservatory (AFI) under the mentorship of Stephen Lighthill, ASC and Bill Dill, ASC.
His narrative works have been screened at festivals worldwide. His first feature film as the DP, Fish Bone, will be released in Chinese cinemas in 2023. His 35mm film, Ashes, won the Best Cinematography award at the Berlin Indie Film Festival 2021. It also took home the Best Student Film at Cine Gear Film Series 2021.
Siwei’s interest in cinematic arts was ignited during his childhood, which he spent constantly watching movies. To Siwei Li, cinema is the art of discovering and sharing the truth of human emotions.
lisiweifilm.com | Instagram: @lisiweidp
Junior Pereira
Junior Pereira is a Brazilian-Spanish cinematographer based in Los Angeles. He has a background in photography and design that ultimately led him toward film. His multinational background allows him to approach each story with a sense of curiosity and empathy. Junior began his career as DP on the historical docudrama Lost Legacy Reclaimed, filming this 7-episode series on location throughout Spain. Following this, Junior collaborated on the short film Hermana (Sister), where he was able to more fully develop his visual style. Hermana went on to premiere at Spain's top short film festival, Medina del Campo. In 2022 Junior, was awarded an ASC Vision Mentorship with cinematographer Stephen Katz.
Junior is also a member of the Local 600 and works in the camera department on commercials, features, and TV shows, such as The Santa Clauses (Disney+), and, most recently, 1923 (Paramount+).
juniorpereira.work | Instagram: @juniorandpereira
Stay tuned for updates about their projects and event announcements.
