Local film and television industry veteran, Lanza Coffin has achieved a historic milestone for Fijian production crew after being officially named as part of the camera team nominated for Outstanding Cinematography for a Reality Program for the 78th Emmy Awards for his extensive work on the milestone production of Survivor 50.
The former Suva Grammar School student who lived in Nasese, and is now based in Nadi, spent nearly a decade rising through the ranks of major international productions filmed in Fiji.
Since joining the USA Survivor camera department in 2017 as an assistant camera operator, Coffin has built an extensive portfolio spanning more than fifteen seasons of the hit global franchise, alongside major international formats like Amazon Prime’s Eco-Challenge Fiji, Beast Games, and Stranded on Honeymoon Island.
Coffin served as the Director of Photography on Adi, Fiji's first fully vernacular feature film, written and directed by Tuila Nacola.
His work on Adi stands alongside a prolific local portfolio of narrative and documentary work, including The Sandbank, Radini, and The Unofficial Colonial History of the FeeJee Islands.
Speaking on the historic milestone, Coffin says it is an incredible honour, and he is still taking the news in.
He says when he first joined Survivor in 2017, he never imagined that the journey would one day lead to an Emmy Award nomination.
Coffin says to now be recognised alongside some of the very best cinematographers in the industry is truly a dream come true.
He adds that to be the first Fijian nominated for an Emmy Award is something he is immensely proud of, but he does not see it as just his achievement.
He says for the past decade, he had the privilege of working alongside the incredible Survivor crew, people who are among the very best in the business.
Coffin says being part of a production that has entertained audiences for more than 25 years and over 50 seasons is something he never takes for granted.
Coffin hopes this milestone serves as a catalyst for future generations of local filmmakers looking to break into the international arena.
The former Grammar student says he is also incredibly proud to represent Fiji.
He says we have world-class crews and exceptional talent, and he hopes this moment shines a light on what's possible for our industry.
Coffin says if his journey encourages young Fijians to pursue a career in film and television, to work hard, keep learning, and believe that they can compete on the world stage, then that's something he will be just as proud of.
The 78th Emmy Awards will be held on September 14th.
