Lara Aqel is an Arab-American cinematographer and director working across commercial, documentary, music video, and narrative film.
Drawn to emotionally resonant, human-centered storytelling, Lara’s work balances stylization with naturalism, atmosphere, and intimacy.
Lara was selected to be a part of the American Society of Cinematographer’s Vision Mentorship Program in 2026. Her projects have been recognized by Cannes Lions, Cinequest, and the CMT Awards. She is based in Atlanta where she lives with her husband and toddler son. Lara works locally in both Atlanta and New York, and travels worldwide for projects.
Selected Awards
CMT Awards – Winner, Female Video of the Year – Heart Like a Truck – Lainey Wilson – Dir. Elizabeth Olmstead
Cinequest – Winner, Best Narrative Short: Comedy – Pozole – Dir. Jessica Mendez-Siqueiros
Las Cruces International Film Festival – Winner, Best Cinematography & Best Narrative Short – Adeline the Great – Dir. Jessica Mendez-Siqueiros
Cannes Lions – Winner, Bronze Cannes Lions – Black Makes a Way – Dir. J.M. Harper
Associations
International collective of female cinematographers [ICFC]
CinematographersXX