James Cameron Remembers Terminator DP Adam Greenberg in Touching Tribute

Oscar-nominated cinematographer Adam Greenberg passed away at the age of 88 on October 30, 2025. The famed cinematographer was one of the most well-respected professionals in the community. He delivered gems like The House on Chelouche Street, The Flying Matchmaker, and The Terminator.

After his passing, veteran director James Cameron shared a statement.

James Cameron pays tribute to Adam Greenberg

The Terminator remains one of the finest action films ever made, and Adam Greenberg’s talent behind the camera was a big reason for the same. For Cameron, it was his breakthrough. Greenberg made one of the works that audiences would remember forever.

In a recent statement shared with Deadline post Greenberg’s death, James Cameron talked about how Greenberg taught him a lot of things that he still carries with him.

“I learned so much from Adam, not just about cinematography, but about the spirit of independent production,” Cameron began, “He refused to let budget limitations inhibit his artistic expression. Adam had done scores of films when I worked with him on my first, and his scrappy, can-do spirit has been a guiding light for me ever since, even on the biggest of productions.”

The Avatar director continued about when he last saw the cinematographer before Terminator 2: Judgment Day’s re-release. Cameron recalled an incident about how precise Greenberg was, even when they last met, years after the film.

James Cameron further added, “I could not have done my Terminator films without Adam. He taught me the narrative power of color and lighting. Nobody did night photography like Adam. I pride myself on my hand-held camera operating, but I learned that at Adam’s knee. He was the master. I know there is a whole generation of filmmakers that he influenced, and there were a handful of us who were privileged to have him shoot for us. We got to learn the lessons directly at his side. His talent and spirit will be missed.”

Adam Greenberg’s work will remain historically important in the books of Hollywood. Many other stars and directors paid tribute to the veteran cinematographer.

Originally reported by Sourav Chakraborty on ComingSoon.