My Background in Wildlife Filmmaking

I grew up in Holsworthy, Devon, surrounded by rolling countryside and the wildlife that filled it. From as early as I can remember, I had a deep love for nature and a genuine fascination with British wildlife. My dad was a farm vet, and I’d often join him on farm visits, watching him work while soaking in every sight, sound, and creature I came across. Those early experiences grounded me in the natural world and shaped the curiosity that would later guide my career.

Photography was my first big passion. I got my very first camera when I was 11, a simple film camera, but it opened up a whole new world for me. I vividly remember the thrill of capturing a Hector’s dolphin during a family trip to New Zealand and rushing to the local Kodak store to get it developed. That tiny moment lit a spark. From there, I slowly upgraded my gear, taught myself new techniques, and spent countless hours exploring the landscapes and wildlife around my home.

When I went to university in Cheltenham, that love only grew. Between lectures and coursework, I was always out exploring the surrounding countryside, uncovering new habitats and photographing everything I could.

Everything changed when I bought my first video camera. Suddenly I wasn’t just capturing moments, I was telling stories. Learning how to craft sequences and edit them together opened my eyes to what wildlife filmmaking could be. I began taking on freelance projects alongside my job as a Building Surveyor, squeezing shoots into evenings, weekends, and any spare moment I had. Eventually, I realised this didn’t have to remain a passion project, it could be my full-time career. And once I made that leap, I never looked back.

I’m incredibly fortunate that my job is also my passion. Wildlife filmmaking has taken me all across the UK, from remote coastlines to ancient woodlands, and further afield to places like Canada, Kenya, and Poland. Every project reminds me of that same excitement I felt as an 11-year-old waiting for my film photos to be developed.

In many ways, my journey into wildlife filmmaking feels like a natural progression. A childhood love of nature, a teenage obsession with photography, and a growing fascination with storytelling all coming together. I’m grateful every day to work in a field that inspires me, challenges me, and connects me with the wild places I’ve loved since the beginning.

Below are some of my favourite still photos I have captured over the years.