Claude Renoir (December 4, 1913 – September 5, 1993) was a distinguished French cinematographer hailing from a prominent artistic lineage. He was the son of actor Pierre Renoir and the grandson of the renowned painter Pierre-Auguste Renoir, with his uncle being the celebrated director Jean Renoir.
Born in Paris to actress Véra Sergine, Claude embarked on his cinematic journey as an apprentice to Boris Kaufman, a notable figure in the film industry. Over the years, he contributed his expertise as a lighting cameraman to a variety of significant films, including the acclaimed Monsieur Vincent (1947), Jean Renoir's The River (1951), and the epic Cleopatra (1963). His work extended to the realm of science fiction with Barbarella (1968) and the iconic James Bond film The Spy Who Loved Me (1977). Notably, The Times of London praised The River for its stunning portrayal of India, marking a pivotal moment in the acceptance of color film among serious filmmakers.
Renoir also played a crucial role in the documentary The Mystery of Picasso (1956), directed by Henri-Georges Clouzot, and served as the cinematographer for The Crucible (1957), filmed in East Germany. His career faced challenges in the late 1970s as he began to lose his vision, leading to his retirement.
He was married twice and had two children, including actress Sophie Renoir. Claude Renoir passed away at the age of 79 in Troyes, close to his cherished home in Essoyes.
