In 2024, Director of Photography Alicia Robbins became a major contributor to the Developing Filmmaker Fellowship, serving as a mentor to budding cinematographer Emma Forthofer, who is eager to follow in Alicia’s footsteps.
Alicia holds the record for being the first female cinematographer to become a full time DP on a Shondaland series. She lensed GREY’S ANATOMY’s “Silent All These Years,” episode 1519, which earned praise as one of the most powerful episodes in the series’ long history. An alternate on the 16th season, Robbins was made lead DP on season 17. From there she moved to lensing 4 episodes for BRIDGERTON’s season 3, and she’s currently back in London for the 4th season of the iconic series.
In 2003, Robbins graduated with her MFA in Cinematography from AFI. In 2007 she joined the union as an operator. She is a recipient of the prestigious Emerging Cinematographer Award (2018) from the Cinematographer’s Guild for her work on the short INTERNET GANGSTERS.
Other titles include a mini-series for Netflix titled KEEP BREATHING starring Melissa Barrera, which was released in July 2022; she also shot four episodes of the NBC re-boot of QUANTUM LEAP (Season 2). BABYSPLITTERS, lensed by Robbins, won Best Feature Film at the 2020 Santa Barbara International Film Festival and Best Comedy Feature at the San Diego International Film Festival and received mention in Variety for its “sparkling” cinematography. THE WEDDING INVITATION, also shot by Robbins, won Best Romantic Comedy at the Manhattan Film Festival and Best Comedy at Burbank International Festival in 2016.
I’m thrilled to be a mentor in the Women in Media Developing Filmmaker Fellowship. Having navigated the challenges of cinematography myself, I understand the value of guidance from experienced professionals. When Tema approached me to participate, I didn’t hesitate.
~ Alicia Robbins
My mentee’s enthusiasm, dedication, and preparedness have been inspiring. I’m honored to contribute to her growth and look forward to continuing our mentorship, as well as supporting future participants through this invaluable program.
Previously, Robbins lensed several features and numerous commercials, documentaries and music videos. In addition to her cinematography, Robbins worked as lead DP for Third Law Productions, a 360 plate company that specializes in 360 degree capture of driving and background footage for VFX elements and b-roll. Projects include; CREED II, THE IRISHMAN, TAG, THE POST, SWAT and SCORPION. Her 3D filmmaking work includes rig tech and engineering for films such as; Step Up Revolution and Dawn of the Planet of the Apes.
Over the past 20 years, Robbins has developed a unique combination of skills, knowledge of cutting-edge technology and versatility with creative styles, makes her an outstanding cinematographer for every type of production.
