Director of Photography & Camera Operator.
Based in Yorkshire & Manchester; shooting documentaries, branded content & social video in the UK, USA & Internationally.

About James

Hello, I’m James, a Yorkshire based DP and camera operator, creating visuals for documentaries, broadcast television, social media and branded content.

My work has been featured on major networks such as Amazon, Netflix, Channel 4, BBC, and Sky, as well as in theatres worldwide. I thrive on collaborating with directors, brands, and production companies to help tell stories that resonate emotionally. I’ve had the pleasure of working with brands like Porsche, The Peninsula Hotels, Ilford Photo and The Royal Northern Sinfonia.

As a creative problem solver, I’m passionate about developing a project’s visual identity through movement, composition, and lighting. I thrive on collaboration where I can support artistic, technical, and logistical decisions; creating work that matters with people who care.

Background

I trained at Leeds University, Apple Computer, BBC Glasgow, and the National Film and Television School. I began building my media experience as a photographer/videographer in the Royal Air Force, earning several service awards after graduating from the Defence School of Photography at RAF Cosford. My first TV documentary assignment involved walking across the Himalayas, and since then, I’ve shot projects across the USA, Japan, and Europe.

I was fortunate to be part of the British Society of Cinematographers' mentorship program, where I had the privilege of being mentored by an Oscar-winning BSC/ASC member. I’m also a Friend of the Association of Camera Operators and a full member of the Guild of Television Camera Professionals.

Some of my notable projects include the Netflix series Beckham, the Sky Arts series Inside Art, and the 2024 See the World from The Peninsula Perspective campaign. My work in the automotive and racing industry has made me the go-to UK cinematographer for F1 legend Daniel Ricciardo. As a documentary filmmaker, I’ve self-shot and directed two feature films and numerous shorts, earning several awards, including a nomination for a British Society of Cinematographers Award and a Prolific North Award.

I’m based in West Yorkshire’s beautiful Calder Valley, near Hebden Bridge, with a production base in Manchester. I frequently work internationally and hold a U.S. I Media Visa, ATA Carnet, and Global Entry, allowing for streamlined travel to the USA and beyond.