CINEMATOGRAPHER · BORN 1921 · DIED 2023
Bill Butler
- Born
- 7 April 1921, Cripple Creek, Colorado, USA
- Died
- 5 April 2023
- Known for
- Spielberg (2017), Visions of Light (1992), The Making of 'Jaws' (1995), The Shark Is Still Working (2009)
12 archived facts 4 topics 1 source Last reviewed Sep 2026
All facts (12)
- #001
When Bill Butler died in 2017, he held the title of the oldest living Oscar nominee. That distinction reflected his long and impressive career in cinema. His nomination came from his achievements in cinematography, and that success placed him among the significant names in film history.
- #002
According to his obituary in the Hollywood Reporter, Butler never attended film school. Instead, he taught himself the craft by going to the movies and turning to the American Society of Cinematographers (ASC) manual to solve the problems he encountered. This self-taught approach demonstrated his natural talent and his passion for cinema, and it laid the foundation for his innovative and original style in cinematography.
- #003
Butler began his education at Iowa Wesleyan University and then continued at the University of Iowa. This academic background gave him a solid foundation for his film career. His university education helped him develop his technical knowledge and artistic vision, and it was an important part of the disciplined, professional approach seen in his later work.
- #004
Butler's two daughters, Genevieve and Chelsea, worked together on the 1997 film 'Deceiver', which their father directed. This family collaboration was a special project in which Butler combined his abilities as both a father and a director. Their roles in the film were a fine example of how family ties can be reflected in the world of cinema, and the experience showed Butler's close relationship with his family and his confidence in their talents.
- #005
Bill Butler is often confused with Bill Butler, the editor of the same name who worked on films such as 'A Clockwork Orange'. However, the two Bill Butlers worked in different areas of the film world. Bill Butler the cinematographer is known for his mastery behind the camera, while Bill Butler the editor stood out for his talent at the editing table. This confusion is a common occurrence in film history, and it is important to distinguish between the two masters.
- #006
Butler worked as cinematographer on three major productions nominated for the Best Picture Oscar: 'Deliverance' (1972), 'The Godfather' (1972) and 'One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest' (1975). Of these films, 'The Godfather' and 'One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest' won the Best Picture award and went down in film history. Butler's cinematography on these productions represents the peak of his career and shows the scale of his contribution to cinema. These films are among the works that best display his talent and vision.
- #007
Butler spent the first five years of his life in Colorado, in a farmhouse where his parents were farmers. This rural life allowed him to grow up close to nature and shaped his character. When he was five, he moved with his family to Henry County and grew up in Mount Pleasant, Iowa, a small college town. The town contributed significantly to his education and cultural development, and Butler's childhood was filled with formative experiences that left their mark on his later life and career.
- #008
Butler was a respected member of the American Society of Cinematographers (ASC). This membership confirmed his expertise in cinematography and his standing in the industry. The ASC is considered one of the most prestigious organizations in cinematography, and its members are chosen from among the most talented names in their field. Butler's membership was an indication of his career achievements and of the recognition he received from his colleagues.
- #009
Butler was the father of three daughters from his marriage to Alma Smith: Judy Rawson, Patricia Pekau and Pam Fraser. These three daughters formed an important part of Butler's family life and were his greatest supporters. Butler's relationship with his daughters showed that he was not only a filmmaker but also a loving father. His family stood by him throughout his career and played an important role in his successes.
- #010
On 28 April 2013, the Charleston International Film Festival presented Butler with the festival's first lifetime achievement award. The award was a tribute to his many years of contribution to cinema and his mastery of cinematography. Receiving this award is considered one of the most important honors of Butler's career, and with it the festival honored his place and influence in film history.
- #011
Butler was the father of Genevieve Butler and Chelsea Butler. These two daughters held an important place in his life and were closely involved in their father's film career. Genevieve and Chelsea worked with their father on the film 'Deceiver', witnessing his directing ability. This collaboration with his daughters was a fine example of how family ties can intertwine with artistic creativity.
- #012
Butler had earned an engineering degree from the University of Iowa. This technical education gave him an important advantage in his film career and formed the basis of his analytical approach to cinematography. His engineering knowledge helped him understand camera technologies and lighting techniques more deeply. This academic background was an indication of the innovative and technically strong perspective he brought to cinema.
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