The American Society of Cinematographers has named Brian Melton and Lyle Vincent as this years recipients of the John Alonzo Heritage Award.

“This award is designed to encourage the next generation of talented filmmakers to pursue their dreams by recognizing outstanding artistic achievements by students,� says Laszlo Kovacs, ASC, chairman of the organization’s Education Committee.

Applicants for the Heritage Award must be either in their final year of film school or a recent graduate. Their student film submissions must be accompanied by a written recommendation from a film school chair, dean or teacher. Entries were judged by a jury of ASC members.

“We weren’t looking for beautiful images,� Kovacs says. “We were judging how effectively the films submitted by student cinematographers helped their collaborators present their stories. It wasn’t an easy decision. There were many impressive entries.�

The award will be presented during the 21st Annual ASC Outstanding Achievement Awards on February 18 at the Hyatt Regency Century Plaza Hotel in Los Angeles.