Jack Hebditch Wins VMI Award for Best Cinematography at University of Portsmouth

The University of Portsmouth proudly announces that Jack Hebditch has been awarded the annual VMI Award for Best Cinematography for 2025. Jack’s fantastic work on the emotionally driven short film Alma has earned him this prestigious recognition.

Alma, a 15 minute short film, follows an elderly woman (Alma), who must navigate love following the death of her wife. It explores the depth of love, in the compounding effects of grief on everyday life, but then the regrowth that occurs while navigating that pain.

With subtle and soft cinematography bringing the viewer in close with the grief struck fragility of Alma, Jack exhibits a clear technical understanding, effectively displaying the impact intentional and sensitive cinematography can have on a production. The various techniques he employs work in conjunction to draw viewers in on the emotional auras present in every scene, breathing life to objects and bringing the actors beyond the screen and into the hearts of viewers.

Ben Thompson, the Programme Lead of Film in Portsmouth University, praised Alma describing it as “a beautifully crafted short film, grounded in a tender and compelling concept. While it could have leaned into cliché, the cinematography ensured it remained subtle, sophisticated, and emotionally authentic. The use of lenses, framing, and visual style clearly reflects deep research and technical understanding, with every frame demonstrating a refined artistic sensitivity. The film’s overall success owes much to the cinematography – elegant lighting, striking composition, and tonal balance that enhances both story and performance.”

Jack Hebditch’s accomplishment with Alma highlights his remarkable talent and promising future in cinematography and wins a VMI voucher for £1,500 of camera hire. His award-winning work not only sets a standard for his peers but also marks him a watch-out talent in the industry. Find Jack elevating future productions!

Synopsis: “Alma lives alone in her quaint cottage. We follow her as she navigates everyday life in her old age. Lonely, she takes pleasure in visiting a local farm shop most days. When she starts to unexpectedly develop feelings for the shopkeeper Joan, Alma is confronted with mixed feelings about moving on from her late wife; contemplating going against a promise she made to herself to live out the rest of her years alone.”