About James
Hi, I’m James!
I’m a highly experienced shooter/director with over 10 years of self-shooting Producing/Directing across unscripted television, branded content, corporate and EPK productions. I’m confident leading projects independently or managing small crews on location, and I’m used to balancing creative ambition with the practical demands of fast-moving shoots.
My background is rooted in documentary storytelling, which has given me a strong instinct for narrative, authenticity and performance. I specialise in short-form factual content across documentary, branded and corporate sectors — particularly projects that require sensitivity, strong people skills and a cinematic but naturalistic look.
I’m especially experienced in:
• Self-shooting PD work
• Documentary and factual storytelling
• Corporate and branded content
• Interview-led films
• Creative drone cinematography
Directing Non-Professional Talent:
Having spent a decade directing contributors in unscripted television, I’m very comfortable working with people who aren’t used to being on camera. I know how to put contributors at ease quickly, build trust, and draw out natural, authentic performances without it feeling forced or over-produced. Whether working with members of the public, senior stakeholders or subject-matter experts, I create a calm, supportive environment that helps people relax and communicate clearly.
Style & Approach:
My approach is story-first — content is always king. I focus on clarity, authenticity and emotional connection, while elevating the visual language wherever possible. Even when filming subjects that could feel functional or corporate, I look for texture, movement and detail to give the film energy and production value.
Technically, I’m confident lighting and shooting high-quality interviews, recording sound, operating gimbals and compact camera systems (GoPros, OSMOs, etc.), and integrating creative drone footage where appropriate.
Preferred Productions:
I particularly enjoy productions that blend strong human storytelling with visual craft — documentary-leaning branded content, corporate films with narrative depth, and short-form factual pieces. I’m adaptable across sectors and comfortable representing clients professionally on location, always acting as a reliable and personable ambassador on set.
Owned Cameras & Equipment
Cameras
- Sony FX9
- Sony FX3
Lenses
- Sony 24-70f2.8 GMii
- Sony 16-35mmf2.8 GMii
- Sigma 70-200mmf2.8
- Samyang 50mm, 24mm, 35mm
Tripods
- Sachtler 18
- Sachtler Ace
Lights
- 2x 2×1 LED panel
- 1x 1×1 LED panel
- 3 head Dedo kit
- 2x tube lights
Sound
- Sony dual radio lapel mics
- Sennheiser radio lapel mics x2
- Rode NGT shotgun mic
- Tascam recorder
- Boom pole+stand
Drone
- DJI Mini 3 Pro
Extras
- Ronin S3 Pro gimbal
- Cine Slider
- GoPro
- 7″ monitor
Showreel
Watch my showreel on Vimeo here
Home Location
Manchester, UK
Also available to work in
- Bristol, UK
- London, UK
- Leeds, UK
Languages
- English – native
Roles and Functions
- Self-shooting PD – since 2018
- Camera Operator – since 2016
- Videographer – since 2014
