Cinematographer
Julie Nhem is a cinematographer working between Portland and Los Angeles. Her work spans narrative, commercial, and documentary filmmaking, with a particular focus on narrative storytelling.
Before picking up a cinema camera, Julie lived abroad, worked in higher education, and spent years as a stills photographer. She was also raising two kids on her own when she decided to make the leap into film. That life experience came with her, and continues to inform the way she approaches her work. She’s especially interested in stories that create a sense of emotional connection with the viewer.
Julie began her film career in the camera department, working her way through utility, loader, and assistant camera positions before moving into camera operating and cinematography. As a member of IATSE Local 600, she has worked on productions including Pig, Guillermo del Toro’s Pinocchio, and The Rehearsal. Her years in the camera department gave her a strong technical foundation and an understanding of how each department contributes to the work on screen.
As she moved into cinematography, Julie continued her training through the Local 600 DP Mentorship Program and the AFI Cinematography Intensive Workshop, where she studied with Stephen Lighthill, ASC, Autumn Durald Arkapaw, ASC, Amy Vincent, ASC, and Dan Sasaki of Panavision. She is currently part of Deep-Light, Natasha Braier’s cinematography mentorship program.
Julie is available for union and non-union work in the Pacific Northwest, Los Angeles, and beyond.
