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Gregg Toland Biography

Birth Name:Gregg Wesley Toland

Birth Place:Charleston, Illinois, United States

Profession Cinematographer, Camera department, Director, Actor

Fast Facts

  • In 2003, was named one of history's top ten most influential cinematographers by a survey conducted by the International Cinematographers Guild
  • After being hired as an office boy at age 15 by Fox Studios, Toland proved himself and ultimately climbed the ranks to become an assistant cameraman
  • Became captivated by films at a young age and moved to Hollywood as a teenager to pursue a career in cinematography
  • Quote: "Photographing Citizen Kane" was indeed the most exciting professional adventure of my career․""
  • Known for embracing new technology and innovations in cinematography
  • Known for his deep focus technique, which allows for a clear foreground, middleground and background
  • In 1931, became the youngest cameraman in Hollywood at age 27

Awards

  • 1936Oscar-Best Cinematography: nominated
  • 1938Oscar-Best Cinematography: nominated
  • 1940Oscar-Best Cinematography, Black-and-White: winner
  • 1941Oscar-Best Cinematography, Black-and-White: nominated
  • 1942Oscar-Best Cinematography, Black-and-White: nominated