Freelance Director of Photography
& Camera Operator
About James
James is a northern-based British director of photography and camera operator, creating moving images for broadcast television, documentary, branded content, live events and corporate communications. He has shot for all major broadcasters and VoD platforms - Amazon, Netflix, BBC and Sky. In recent years, he has collaborated with innovative agencies and production companies, creating great work with partners such as The Peninsula Hotels, Porsche and Metropolis Studios.
He lives in the beautiful Calder Valley in Yorkshire, England - close to Hebden Bridge with a production base in Manchester. He often works internationally and holds a USA I Media Visa and ATA Carnet.
DOP - RAAM Documentary, Kansas USA, Photo by James Copson
Background
James trained at Apple, Leeds Beckett, BBC Glasgow and the National Film and Television School. He possesses years of experience as a combat videographer in the Royal Air Force, winning multiple service awards after training at the Defense School of Photography, RAF Cosford. Later in his career, he became one of the first alumni of the British Society of Cinematographers mentorship programme, coached by an Oscar-winning BSC ASC member.
Now an industry veteran, James has over a decade of international production experience in the USA, Europe and Asia. Through his expertise shooting cars on and off the track with brands such as Aston Maritn, Ferrari, Porsche and Kia, he became the ‘go-to’ cinematographer for F1 legend Daniel Riccardo.
As a documentary filmmaker, James self-shot and directed two award-winning feature docs and a collection of shorts; this includes working with incredible partners such as The Royal Northern Sinfonia and Ilford Photo.
A creative problem solver at heart, James's happy place is developing a project's visual identity through a considered approach to composition and lighting. He strives to support colleagues with artistic, technical and logistical decision-making - an eye pressed into the viewfinder, creating work that matters with people who care.