Since 1930/31 the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has conducted a program for honoring the artisans whose contributions have made it possible for an industry known as “The Movies” to exist. Where would any of it be without the essentials that make it possible for performances to be documented anywhere in the world and later shown to people who are willing to pay to see them? Recognition of ingenuity, efficiency and economy toward achieving the end result is the basic purpose of the Scientific and Technical Awards.

Any device, method, formula, discovery or invention of special and outstanding value to the arts and sciences of motion pictures can be considered for recognition. Inventions re-purposed from the other industries cannot qualify for an award unless the vast preponderance of the development was motion picture specific. The steps involved in the process have been carefully determined since the awards began. They, and the award rules, are reviewed annually and when there is room for improvement they are altered. (If you have suggestions or comments to offer, they will be appreciated.)

A committee of experts in their respective fields is organized each year by a chairman who is appointed by the President of the Academy. Approximately 45 people constitute the Scientific and Technical Awards Committee representing cinematography (production and technical), digital imaging, electronics and research, film and laboratory, lighting and equipment, mechanical or optical effects and engineering, production, projection, exhibition techniques and sound.

Letters are sent to individuals and companies known to be concerned with the tools and techniques of film making in an annual canvass asking for information about new devices or methods that have been used on the production of feature films. Accompanying the letter are an entry form, the Academy’s rules for the award category and a copy of established guidelines that help the committee weigh the eligibility of the applications. Entry forms are returned to the Academy within the time allowed for compiling the applications and distributing the information to members of the committee.

All of the entries are numbered and bound into a volume which is then sent to each of the committee members. A meeting notice is attached and the committee begins an arduous program of study and debate on the submitted items.