Cinematography shaped around the story
I’m James Melrose, a UK Director of Photography, lighting cameraman and camera operator working across television, documentaries, commercials and branded content. With more than a decade of production experience, I help directors, producers and agencies translate an idea into purposeful, cinematic images that serve the story.
My selected credits include work on Welcome to Wrexham, BBC One’s Ambulance, Dacia and George Bullard’s Britain Off-Road, Sky Sports Golf’s Beyond the Scorecard, Inside M&S at Christmas and the EA SPORTS FC Mobile series. I have worked on productions for broadcasters, brands and platforms including the BBC, Channel 4, Sky Sports and Amazon Prime Video.
You can browse my full film, television and commercial portfolio, view a selection of my latest cinematography work, or see additional credits on my IMDb profile.
A collaborative and adaptable approach
Every production needs a different visual language. I can work observationally with a small documentary crew, build a controlled interview or studio setup, or collaborate on a more polished commercial treatment. My approach combines naturalistic lighting, considered composition and calm, practical problem-solving on set.
My main camera package is built around the Sony FX9 and FX3, supported by professional lenses, lighting, sound, gimbal and licensed drone options. I can join an established camera department or provide a compact, flexible package for smaller productions. Explore my Director of Photography services, lighting cameraman services and camera operator services for more detail.
UK-wide production coverage
I am based in South Shields in the North East and work nationwide, with established bases serving Newcastle, Manchester, London and Glasgow. This makes it straightforward to support productions across England, Scotland and the wider UK without compromising on preparation or kit.
Discuss your next production
If you are looking for an experienced DOP, lighting cameraman or camera operator, get in touch to discuss your brief, dates and location. I also lead Tomorrow’s Creative, providing wider production, crew and content support for brands, agencies and production companies across the UK.
