Watch online | Craft Awards | Diamond | ***** | **** | *** | ** | * | Cert
BIAFF 2027 will run Monday 29th March to Sunday 4th April
BIAFF 2027 will run Monday 29th March to Sunday 4th April
IAC LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT
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At BIAFF 2026 a very special person was awarded a IAC Lifetime Achievement Award.
He is HOWARD SMITH Left is a promo he made for the IAC a few years ago. At the BIAFF Awards Dinner on Sunday 24th May 2026 the IAC presented a tribute to him. It was created by Mike Whyman. The award was introduced by Julie Hayes who has acted in several of his films and it included clips from his work. Below is a re-creation of the occasion ... |
It's not just a hobby - it's a passion of mine.
Howard says the start of his love of movies was 'Goldfinger' in 1965. In 1967 he began to subscribe to Movie Maker magazine from which he learned a great deal about making films. In 1970 he got his first cine camera, made a short animation and sent it to The Movie Maker Ten Best' competition. It won three stars. During the VHS years he stopped filming. In 2005 he returned to with digital video.
His main interest has been in thrillers and dramas. He enjoys every aspect of film making from planning scripts onwards, but mostly editing. He can lose himself in the editing process often working all night. For actors he often uses people from Star Now (www.starnow.com) and actors from the thriving amateur dramatic scene in the midlands - whose shows he regularly supports - and friends from Sutton Coldfield Movie Makers.
You can see 134 (and counting) of his films on https://vimeo.com/howardsmith39110714
His main interest has been in thrillers and dramas. He enjoys every aspect of film making from planning scripts onwards, but mostly editing. He can lose himself in the editing process often working all night. For actors he often uses people from Star Now (www.starnow.com) and actors from the thriving amateur dramatic scene in the midlands - whose shows he regularly supports - and friends from Sutton Coldfield Movie Makers.
You can see 134 (and counting) of his films on https://vimeo.com/howardsmith39110714
IAC FELLOWSHIPS
Institute of Amateur Cinematographers (IAC) Fellowships are awarded for expertise in cinematography, AV art, or distinguished service to the IAC. While typically requiring five years of membership, exceptions can be made for outstanding contributions. Recipients may use the letters FACI after their name.
Fellowships may be announced at the AGM or at BIAFF. In 2026 two people were so honoured by Linda Gough, IAC President.
Alan McDonald Sinclair Ladies and gentlemen, it is my pleasure to present a Fellowship of the IAC for someone whose contribution to amateur filmmaking has been both imaginative and transformative. Living in the far north of Scotland, Alan McDonald Sinclair found himself hundreds of miles from any filmmaking club. Yet rather than accept isolation, Alan created something entirely new: the Virtual Video Group. This is an online community that brought filmmakers together from across the UK and beyond. At a time when the country was in lockdown and clubs could not meet, Alan offered a lifeline. He organised regular meetings, talks, workshops, film challenges, and competitions. He built a welcoming space for anyone with a passion for filmmaking. Under his leadership, the Virtual Video Group has grown into a thriving international group. It took on the running of the long established Chocolate Soldier competition — a responsibility traditionally organised by physical clubs. Alan’s commitment extends far beyond the virtual world. His own films are regularly shortlisted for BIAFF screenings and craft awards. He serves the Institute as both a judge and one of our most dedicated attendees, travelling an extra-ordinary distance to be part of our community. For his innovation, his service, and his unwavering commitment to bringing filmmakers together, the IAC is proud to award Alan McDonald Sinclair the distinction of Fellow of the Institute of Amateur Cinematographers. |
Stewart Emm Ladies and gentlemen, it is my great pleasure to present a Fellowship of the IAC to someone whose contribution to amateur filmmaking has been both distinguished and enduring. For many years, Stewart Emm has been at the heart of the Edinburgh Cine & Video Society. He has been serving as its Secretary and helping to steward one of the oldest and most historically significant film societies in the United Kingdom. Stewart has been a guardian of its remarkable heritage, a custodian of its unique 52‑seat cinema. He was the person trusted to represent the society when the BBC sought to tell its story. That trust speaks volumes. Stewart’s contribution reaches far beyond the walls of Fettes Row. As leader of the Edinburgh U3A Movie Makers group. He has guided and encouraged new filmmakers, helping them develop their skills through shared projects and workshops. His name appears across many Edinburgh Cine and Video Society productions. He has been a valued supporter of the Virtual Video Group, offering experience and stability as it has grown. Stewart is also a committed supporter of BIAFF, giving his time generously as a room host during the judging weekends and helping to ensure the smooth running of the festival. His dedication, reliability, and good humour are appreciated by all who work with him. For his service, his leadership, and his unwavering commitment to amateur film, the IAC is proud to award Stewart Emm the distinction of Fellow of the Institute of Amateur Cinematographers. |
Watch online | Craft Awards | Diamond | ***** | **** | *** | ** | * | Cert
BIAFF 2027 will run Monday 29th March to Sunday 4th April
BIAFF 2027 will run Monday 29th March to Sunday 4th April
