Acclaimed cinematographer Sevdije Kastrati-Dill has achieved a historic milestone, becoming a member of the American Society of Cinematographers (ASC)—the oldest and most prestigious cinematography organization in Hollywood, founded in 1919. With the ASC initials now following her name, Kastrati-Dill joins an elite group of world-class cinematographers, marking one of the highest honors in the industry.
A Dream Realized in Hollywood’s Elite Club
Membership in the ASC is by invitation only and is reserved for cinematographers who have demonstrated exceptional skill, artistic vision, and professionalism in their craft. It is not just an affiliation—it is a recognition of excellence.
“To be a member of the American Society of Cinematographers is an honor for every cinematographer. It’s a dream to achieve this. The ASC is the oldest existing club in Hollywood, dedicated to promoting and protecting the art of cinematography.
said Kastrati-Dill in an interview, koha.net
A Career Defined by International Success
Sevdije Kastrati-Dill’s remarkable career has spanned numerous internationally recognized films, many of which have propelled Kosovo’s film industry onto the global stage. Some of her most notable works include:
- 🎬 “Kthimi” (The Return) – Directed by Blerta Zeqiri, Sundance Film Festival Winner (2012)
- 🎬 “Martesa” (The Marriage) – Directed by Blerta Zeqiri
- 🎬 “Nëntori i Ftohtë” (Cold November) – Directed by Ismet Sijarina
- 🎬 “Zana” – Directed by Antoneta Kastrati, premiered at Toronto International Film Festival
- 🎬 “Vera Andrron Detin” (Vera Dreams of the Sea) – Premiered at Venice International Film Festival, won awards at Tokyo Film Festival (2021) and Ingmar Bergman Award (2022)
- 🎬 “Perpetrator” – Directed by Jennifer Reeder, premiered at Berlin International Film Festival (2023) and Tribeca Film Festival
- 🎬 “Carved” – Directed by Justin Harding, released on Hulu & Disney+ (2023)
A Trailblazer in the Global Cinematic Landscape
Kastrati-Dill began her journey in 2009, moving to Los Angeles to study cinematography at the American Film Institute, where she graduated in 2011. Her work has garnered international acclaim, with multiple films representing Kosovo at the Academy Awards (Oscars).
In addition to ASC membership, she is also a member of the European Film Academy and IATSE Local 600. Her husband, Bill Dill, a renowned cinematographer known for films such as “Jason Goes to Hell: The Final Friday”, is also an ASC member.
A High Honor, Yet the Work Continues
Kastrati-Dill considers ASC membership one of the greatest achievements of her career, yet she remains focused on future projects.
“It is a professional peak, but the work continues. My projects always come first. This recognition is a great achievement, but I’m already in discussions for upcoming films,” she stated.
Currently, ASC has 440 members worldwide, including some of the most respected names in cinematography. The official ASC website has welcomed Kastrati-Dill, highlighting her biography and Kosovo’s Oscar-submitted films she has worked on.
This recognition solidifies Sevdije Kastrati-Dill’s place among the world’s top cinematographers, making her a source of pride for Kosovo and a trailblazer for future generations in the film industry.
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