James A R Salisbury

| Camera Operator

About Me – Overview

I’m a fresh, enthusiastic, and passionate natural history camera operator with a keen eye for creative composition, beautiful lighting, and engaging stories. I have a solid technical knowledge with a flair for problem solving and improvisation. I currently hold a valid I-Visa, a CAA PfCO Drone License (UK), an FAA Part 107 Drone License (USA), as well as being up-to-date with all regularly required vaccinations for travel. My most recent credits include ‘The Mating Game’ for BBC One, ‘Tiny World’ for AppleTV+, and ‘Fierce Mamas’ for Quibi.
About Me – Experience

I am proficient in using a variety of camera systems including RED, Phantom Flex/Veo, Panasonic Varicam/S1H/GH5s, ARRI Alexa, Sony Cine Alta/EX-series/F-series, DSLR camera traps, and GoPro. I also have a good understanding of lighting sets for studio work, having used a variety of lighting types from LED panels and fibre lights, to Tungsten and Fluorescents. I am comfortable in using a range of gimbals including the Freefly Movi Pro, DJI Ronin 2, and DJI RS2. I have over sixty hours of flight time on the DJI Inspire 2, thirty hours on the DJI Mavic 2 Pro, and twenty hours on the DJI Phantom 4 Pro. In addition to this, I have experience in recording sound on location that includes atmosphere/wild track, spot effects, sync, and animal calls.
About Me – Knowledge

I have a firm understanding of animal behaviour which has helped me to capture unique and intimate shots. My BSc (Hons) degree in Zoology coupled with specialist courses (including an Open University Science Short Course on Life in the Oceans and a Mammalian Society certificate in Mammal Identification) have given me excellent research skills with an elevated level of scientific scrutiny. I am keen to sustain a working understanding of the latest broadcast camera technologies by attending relevant workshops such as the Gates Underwater Housings Set-Up, Test, and Operate course, and tradeshows such as the International Broadcast Convention (IBC) and the Broadcast and Video Expo (BVE).
About Me – On Location

On location, I am driven to produce powerful and unique images that will help to tell interesting and engaging stories. I am Gates Underwater Housings Setup, Test, and Operate certified, an Avid Media Composer Certified User, I have received Light Goods Vehicle training, and I am a qualified wilderness first aider. I have a good sense of humour, I’m not afraid to get my hands dirty, and I’m always keen to learn new skills.
About Me – Equipment

I am an owner/operator of a variety of professional production equipment, all of which can be hired daily or weekly at a competitive rate. I have spent a great deal of time, not only curating a catalogue of specialist equipment, but ensuring that it can be transported safely using the minimum number of flight cases and the least amount weight possible. Not only is this beneficial to the production budget, but it is better for the planet too! Click Here to see my full equipment list.
About Me – Right to Work

I am a British citizen and have the right to work in the United Kingdom and Northern Ireland, as well as any country in the European Economic Area and Switzerland. I currently hold a valid I-Visa for the United States of America, a CAA PfCO Drone License (UK), and an FAA Part 107 Drone License (USA) as well as being up-to-date with all regularly required vaccinations, including two doses + a booster of Moderna for Covid-19.
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Why the Red Squirrel?

In May of 2014, I was photographing wildlife on the South rim of Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona, USA. It was 6am, it was quiet. My only company was the chipmunks, the hummingbirds, and the squirrels. That was until a hiker came strolling down the trail. He stopped to say good morning, ask where in the UK I was based, and whether I was doing any hiking during my visit. We talked about the National Park, similarities and differences between British and American wildlife and landscapes, and the concept of trail names. As it turns out, trail names are fun or silly names that hikers have bestowed upon them by fellow hikers. Not something often done in the UK. As the hiker left to continue his journey, he turned to me and said “See you around, Red Squirrel”.

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Caught in the Rain

Streaking over Tower Bridge

The Fatal Stretch

Pondering Puffin

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I currently hold a CAA (Civilian Aviation Authority) C-DOT (Commercial Drone Operators Training) theoretical assessment certificate and a FAA (Federal Aviation Authority) Part 107 UAS (Unmanned Aircraft System) Remote Pilot Certificate. I have over sixty hours of flight time on the DJI Inspire 2, thirty hours on the DJI Mavic 2 Pro, and twenty hours on the DJI Phantom 4 Pro. I own and operate a DJI Phantom 4 Pro V2.0 which is equipped with a 1-inch 20-megapixel sensor capable of shooting 4K/60fps video and Burst Mode stills at 14 fps.

James Showed himself to be a true camera hero when filming deep in the Amazon. His Knowledge and willingness to go above and beyond are part of why the film was so successful. I’d surely work with him again.

Myles Connolly

Myles Connolly

Producer - Amazon Adventure IMAX 3D

James contributed key sequences to two programs in the 12-part series Tiny World. He was part of a crew that was based at Gobabeb Field Station in the Namib Desert working to capture complex behaviour in a very difficult environment. More recently he shot a macro sequence (alkali bees) for an on-going series on insects in which he had to both shoot and direct. This involved solving a number of tricky problems, which he succeeded in doing to deliver a well thought out and beautifully shot sequence, including excellent drone work.

Steve Nicholls

Steve Nicholls

Series Producer - Hooded Crow Pictures

In 2019 James filmed for us on a high end, ambitious blue chip macro project. Over the course of three very different trips to Namibia, all in challenging environments, James proved to be both a great camera operator and a valuable member of the team. His flexibility, imagination and attention to detail resulted in us capturing some beautiful images. Whether it was a new behaviour or familiar story, James is always keen to give us a strong, new visual angle. I look forward to working with him again.

John Capener

John Capener

Producer - Plimsoll Productions

James shot two of the 15 films that made up our series. Both stories were very different and required different filming techniques. Between them, James shot long lens, high speed, macro and used gimbals. They each required different field craft, and had their share of unforeseen circumstances to which James was happy to adjust. I was delighted with both and would not hesitate to employ James again on my next series.

Seb Illis

Seb Illis

Series Producer - Plimsoll Productions

I wanted to write and say a personal and heartfelt thank you for your help, support, and superb work on both the Sea Lion and Cicada sequences. I am hugely pleased with the end sequences. Despite all the challenges, not least filming in 8K during the worse production environment we have ever known (thanks COVID!), you really have delivered some wonderful images. Thank you.

Simon Nash

Simon Nash

Producer - Silverback Films

I worked with James on location in the remote Patagonia. James is a gadget master using all sort of cameras and devices to produce great images for the program. His versatility would bring an amazing range of shots to any production!

Angel Garcia-Rojo

Angel Garcia-Rojo

Assistant Producer - Silverback Films

James was delightful to work with on location in the USA, not just for his technical proficiency but his positive attitude and willingness to push himself. He gets sincere joy from nature and observing animal behaviour. His passion for wildlife translates to the screen.

Leah Arnold

Leah Arnold

Assistant Producer - Plimsoll Productions

I just wanted to say that it was a real pleasure working with you on the Gobabeb shoot… I expect to see a lot more of your work – you have the eye.

Alastair MacEwan

Alastair MacEwan

Natural History Director of Photography

I’ve used James on several projects that require quick thinking and creative composition. Working for Sale Sharks rugby club, James brought professionalism and the ability to react to high pressure environments. Working with James ensures gaining additional skillsets and a great work ethic.

Colin McKevitt

Colin McKevitt

Co-Owner/Director - Badger & Combes

Jackson Wild Special Jury Award Winner 2021 Tiny World

CITES World Wildlife Day Film Showcase at Jackson Wild Nominee 2021 Tiny World - Woodland

Civil Aviation Authority Certified Drone Pilot

Aputure Lighting Certification

Federal Aviation Authority Part 107 Certified Drone Pilot

Giant Screen Cinema Association Best Cinematography Winner 2017 Amazon Adventure IMAX 3D

Avid Media Composer Certified User

British Wildlife Photography Awards 2016 Wildlife in HD Highly Commended

+44 (0) 7720 289891

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James A R Salisbury Camera Services Ltd. is a company registered in England and Wales with Company Number 12101664.

VAT No.327 1904 10

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