About
A Lifelong Passion for Filmmaking
David first became interested in professional video production after meeting Indian actor Raj Patel, who ran his own production business in the 1980s. Through many conversations about filmmaking, storytelling, and the technical craft of production, David became deeply inspired by both the creative and professional possibilities of the industry.
Motivated by this early influence, David invested in his first U-Matic equipment, taking his initial steps into professional video work.
His commitment continued to grow over the years, leading him to purchase his first broadcast-quality camera in 2003 with a bank loan, an important milestone that marked his transition from passion to fully committed professional practice.
Experience & Locations
Based in Cornwall since 1999, David films primarily across the county, capturing a wide range of stories, events, and environments, but he has also worked extensively in East Africa, including Kenya, Tanzania, and The Gambia. These international projects exposed him to diverse cultures, landscapes, and working conditions, strengthening both his adaptability and storytelling skills.
During these trips, David developed a strong interest in wildlife filmmaking, learning to work patiently and respectfully in natural environments. He also became self-taught in the Kiswahili language, allowing him to communicate more effectively with local communities and collaborators, and deepening his connection to the regions he filmed.
With great content, there are no limits!
Ethical, Ground-Based Filming
David avoids unnecessary equipment and prefers to film from the ground, believing that helicopters and heavy setups used by larger broadcasters can disturb wildlife and offer little added benefit. He travels with minimal gear, often just a camera, food, and a flask of tea, ensuring an unobtrusive and respectful filming process.
Equipment
David uses a range of professional Sony equipment for different filming environments:
• Sony DSR-450 – outdoor filming
• Sony DSR-570
• Two Sony DSR-250s – ideal for indoor and low-light recording
• XDCAM disc camera
• XDCAM card-based camera – lightweight and suitable for filming abroad.
The DSR-250s work exceptionally well in low light, reducing the need for artificial lighting and keeping production costs low.
Creative Work
Alongside documentaries, David also films entertainment and community events, producing full-length features rather than short clips. He also creates digital composite artwork using photographs of African wildlife placed into Cornish landscapes.
In the future, David intends to rent cinemas to publicly screen selected films.
Professional Standards
• Fully insured with public liability cover
• Strong personal moral standards, projects that conflict with these are politely declined
• No artificial intelligence used in any part of the production process
• Always films a backup during live recordings
