Julian Panetta is an Australian cinematographer working across narrative film and commercials. His work is drawn to stories shaped by character, atmosphere and perspective, with a visual approach that favours intimacy, restraint and a strong sense of place.
With a background in lighting and stills photography, Julian developed an early sensitivity to the qualities of light and composition. This foundation continues to inform a cinematography style that emphasises clarity and intention, allowing images to support the emotional tone of a story without drawing attention away from it.
Julian collaborates closely with directors to develop visual languages that feel grounded in the world of each project. His work has been recognised by the Australian Cinematographers Society with numerous awards including the Judges Award for Wild Dog, and in 2025 he was named in IF Magazine’s Rising Talent list for cinematographers.
He is particularly interested in character-driven storytelling and is currently focused on narrative film and television.
Gear:
Alexa Mini LF | Tokina Vista Primes | Atlas Mercury Anamorphic Primes
Contact:
julianpanettamedia(at)gmail.com
Awards:
ACS Judges Award - Wild Dog
ACS Gold Award - Short Films - Wild Dog
ACS Gold Award - Short Films - The Moths Will Eat Them Up
ACS Silver Award - Short Films - Half Past Midnight
ACS Silver Award - Station Breaks & Promos - Black Snow
ACS Silver Award - Branded Content - Brutal
ACS Silver Award - Branded Content - Technology One
ACS Bronze Award - Feature Film - Dead Eyes
