Nobutaka Emura

Nobutaka Emura (Nobu) is a passionate cinematographer from Nagoya, Japan.
He earned his MFA in Film Production from the USC School of Cinematic Arts, reflecting his deep dedication to visual storytelling that elevates emotion and character. Whether working with LED volumes, handheld setups, or orchestrating dynamic lighting, Nobu always aims to serve the story first.

In 2023, he received the USC First Look Faculty Cinematography Award for In Nomine Patris, which he shot as Director of Photography—recognizing his artistic vision and technical excellence.

Alongside narrative filmmaking, Nobu captured coverage of the Los Angeles Dodgers’ 2024 season, including practice sessions, fan interviews, and postseason broadcasts. He operated cameras for one of Japanese major TV station, delivering live news from stadiums in Los Angeles, San Diego, and New York.

Previously in Japan, Nobu worked as a Camera Operator and Assistant in both Tokyo and Los Angeles. He shot weekly TV news for Tokyo MX and contributed to live sports broadcasts and artists concerts across Japan, China, and South Korea.

A unique strength of Nobu’s lies in his adaptability—shaped by living and working in Japan, Thailand, and the U.S., and by shooting in fast-changing environments day after day. He likens himself to a versatile Lego block—providing structure, color, and support to any crew while blending seamlessly into the creative process.