James A R Salisbury
Natural History Documentary
Camera Operator
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 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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.
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.
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.
