Member of the American Society of Cinematographers (A.S.C.).
Lathrop was DP Russell Metty's camera operator on one of the most famous boom shots in the history of cinema: the spectacular opening of Orson Welles' "Touch of Evil."
Noted for his skills with wide screen technology.
Began as a film loader in Universal's camera department in 1934. Worked for Russell Metty as a camera operator for nine years, graduating to full director of photography in 1957.