I followed that instinct into college, then into university, shooting anything I could: music gigs, documentaries, short films, whatever would teach me something new. The short films I made at Uni received high praise but more than that it ignited something in me that continues today. The following 6 years I worked inside advertising agencies as a lighting cameraman and editor, learned how commercial and corporate sets function, learned how people work, learned how to light fast under pressure while maintaining a high quality. Eventually, I stepped out on my own into freelance.
I’m now based in Manchester, working as a cinematographer. Over the last 15 years I’ve shot national commercials, worked in virtual production, and filmed more than my fair share of inanimate objects to help sell them.
What I’m most drawn to, though, hasn’t changed much since I was that kid watching and re-winding VHS tapes to watch them again: stories that stir emotion, that trigger a response, that inspire.
I grew up in the North West of England, surrounded by cameras, film posters, and the constant hunt for good light. My dad was a photographer, so I spent a lot of my childhood on countryside detours, watching him chase a moment that might last a fraction of a second. At home, I did the same with films, replaying the ones that made me feel something, long before I understood why. Looking back, that’s probably where all of this started.
Kenton Jordan Thomas, Writer/Director MYMAN - An Origin Story
Working with Stephan was a real pleasure. His positive energy and enthusiasm created an amazing energy on set. I really admire his attention to detail and his drive to find the best shot - he’s always looking for ways to best serve the story. A true collaborator, he not only understood our vision but also brought his own great ideas and experience to the table with no ego. Plus, he’s a film buff who totally gets all the wild film references you throw his way!
Steven Symon, Digital Film Producer at SharkNinja for EMEA
"As a production manager, finding a DoP who is both highly skilled and adaptable is crucial. Stephan fits the bill perfectly. His extensive experience and creativity ensure our TV commercials are visually captivating and on point with our brand message. His ability to collaborate effectively with diverse teams, regardless of the project's scale, makes him an invaluable asset to any production."
I’m especially interested in drama and character-driven films, the kind of work that balances beauty with honesty. Some of my favourites would be Days of Heaven, I'm Still Here, City of God.
I most enjoy the collaboration with the director. Discussing shots and working to find the tone of a story and the mechanics of how to light it.
I'm currently looking to collaborate with visionary directors who create stories that resonate with audiences in exciting ways. I'm drawn to characters with a truth to tell and enjoy creating textured images that serve that truth.
Jamie Swaby, Director - MYMAN - An Origin Story
Stephan joined MyMan relatively close to shooting, but quickly became a crucial part of the team. Despite the tight timeline, he went above and beyond in helping us visualise the film and played a key role in shaping its final visual style. We came in with a strong idea of how we wanted it to look, but Stephen challenged and expanded on that vision in a really constructive way, and we ended up with a much stronger film because of it. He brought a great attitude to set, was easy to get on with, and helped maintain a positive energy throughout the shoot, even on the toughest, longest day. I only met Stephen two weeks before we started filming, but going forward, he’ll be at the top of my list of DOPs to chat to for future projects.
Rick Dooley, Video Director & Creative Content Producer
"It's always great to collaborate with Stephan - no matter what the brief.
He helps me push the boundaries on the creative vision and is always looking for that different perspective or new way of doing things with the camera, composition or lighting setups."
Sarah Hodgetts - Filmmaker, Tiny Studio
I absolutely love working with Stephan. We've worked together on a range of productions, from doc to studio advertising, and he is just a dream to work with on every. single. one.
In pre-production he's creative, efficient, understands the aims and limits of a brief, and pushes to make everything look as brilliant as we can possibly make it. He works so hard on set and is just as kind and patient under pressure as he is on the relaxed days! All crew and talent love working with him. Nothing is too much trouble, and everything is achieved.
Give him a bit more budget and he'll make the right decisions for lenses, lighting, and everything else you need. The final output is always absolutely stunning.
He's a top quality DOP and a really good guy to have on set too.
William Prince - Director, Takagari
I’ve worked with Stephan as a cinematographer for many years now watching his skills develop. As well as technical knowledge and solid work ethic one of his best skills is his adaptability to serve the story within multiple genres. From dramatic film-noir style, realistic documentaries, to colourful fashion ads, his lighting and camera work has enhanced many films and videos I’ve directed.
An excellent collaborator, he’s always prepared, but also comfortable to take risks and adapt to the changing needs of a film set. As a hands on cinematographer and cameraman I’d strongly recommend you getting in touch.