Paloma Ronquillo

Paloma Ronquillo is a cinematographer from Santa Maria, a small town on California’s Central Coast. Her passion for storytelling began at a young age, capturing home videos on her family's Cyber-shot Sony digital camera—often featuring her cat, her chihuahua, and, on occasion, her cousin in impromptu dance videos and “dramatic” scenes. These early videos, complete with questionable plots and enthusiastic performances, laid the foundation for her love of visual storytelling. As a teenager, she won multiple local photography contests and was recognized as a top-three finalist in a national photography magazine competition.

With a deep appreciation for bygone eras, Paloma developed a unique connection to older times, influenced by her mother, an antique collector. She began collecting photographs from vintage shops and flea markets, fascinated by forgotten moments and personal legacies. This passion for history and memory has shaped her approach to cinematography, inspiring her to create emotionally rich and timeless visuals.

Paloma brings not only an artistic and technical vision to every project but also a sense of fun to set. She believes that the creative process should be filled with collaboration, laughter, and positive energy, making it an enjoyable environment for everyone involved.

She pursued her love for visual storytelling at California State University Monterey Bay, earning a degree in Cinematic Arts and Technology while freelancing and working as a camera operator with Local 611. Determined to refine her craft, she earned her MFA in Cinematography from UCLA’s School of Theater, Film, and Television.

She is a proud member of the Society of Camera Operators and Women in Media and is passionate about increasing inclusivity for women in film, striving to create more opportunities and representation.

A two-time recipient of the Panavision New Filmmaker Grant, Paloma brings a bold, artistic vision to every project, crafting emotionally rich and visually compelling narratives that leave a lasting impact.

Paloma is based in Los Angeles, CA.