Jon Collins - Show Reel
Hello, I'm Jon Collins a freelance filmmaker, director, and cameraman driven by a passion for crafting compelling narratives and capturing captivating stories. With over a decade of experience in this field, my work has graced the screens of numerous major TV channels, including renowned names like the BBC and ITV. Throughout this journey, I've had the privilege of contributing to impactful documentaries that have ignited social change and lending my lens to an impressive array of well-known brands.
My professional journey took root in the realm of corporate filmmaking, which then propelled me through the exciting worlds of public relations and branded content. It's here that I honed my skill in the art of concise storytelling, distilling powerful narratives into mere seconds. Presently, my expertise spans across the diverse domains of broadcasting, branded content, advertising, marketing and corporate film. I'm equally at ease conducting smaller, more intimate shoots as well as orchestrating large-scale productions that involve multiple crews. My hallmark is blending approachability with unwavering professionalism, ensuring that every project yields exceptional results.
Beyond the world of video production, I'm passionately dedicated to environmental causes and rewilding initiatives. The projects I've been fortunate to be a part of have made headlines globally, emphasizing the urgency of our shared responsibility to protect our planet. I firmly believe that we all have to do what we feel is right for our planet, and for that reason, I choose not to partake in projects connected to the extraction or burning of fossil fuels.
When Jon Collins is not pretending to be a tripod, he also enjoys wearing mustard.
In today's landscape, a significant portion of my work revolves around the creation of branded content video for esteemed brands like Amazon, Twinings, and Heineken. My primary focus is on helping these brands authentically convey their narratives across various social platforms to connect with their target audiences effectively. I approach each project with a keen commitment to optimizing a client's budget while producing films meticulously tailored to the specific platform where they will be showcased.
I firmly believe that a one-size-fits-all video edit isn't the most effective approach. Different platforms have unique dynamics, and what resonates on Facebook might not necessarily work on YouTube. Similarly, a beautifully detailed narrative may not translate effectively on Instagram. Recognizing the creative possibilities presented by platforms like Instagram Stories and Facebook Stories is essential. Rather than shying away from them, I advocate embracing these opportunities to create content that truly engages the audience.
Globetrotting with my camera equipment has been a fundamental part of my journey, both for work and personal exploration. I'm not just a stranger to far-off destinations; I'm an experienced traveler who understands the ins and outs of preparing ATA Carnets, allowing for seamless international equipment transport. I thrive in challenging environments, and I'm not one to shy away from getting hands-on in various situations.
My work has taken me to a diverse array of countries, including Albania, the Bahamas, Bosnia, Brazil, France, Greece, Holland, Norway, and Sweden, just to scratch the surface. These global adventures have provided me with valuable exposure to diverse cultures, landscapes, and filming scenarios. It's the richness of these experiences that continually fuels my passion for creating captivating content.
In my time, I've help create films for a variety of sports including football, cricket, hockey, tennis and cycling and for various international bodies, clubs, tournaments and teams. I've worked for the likes of FIFA, The French Open and Arsenal.
As a seasoned freelance cinematographer, I thrive in the confines of a studio space, unafraid to tackle any challenge head-on. My extensive experience as a Director of Photography (DoP) encompasses the art of lighting studio environments, including those equipped with white and green screens. This experience extends to working on prestigious BBC productions, such as the BAFTA-winning Michael McIntyre's show. My toolkit includes a wide range of lighting equipment, from KinoFlos to ARRI's tungsten and HMI lights, along with Dedo Octodomes. Depending on the specific project requirements, I can seamlessly adapt to solo work, collaborate with a dedicated camera assistant, or coordinate with experienced gaffers to ensure the highest quality cinematography.
I'm passionate about using films for good. As well as working with some of the UK's biggest (and smallest) charities on various campaign, educational and social media films, I love to spend my free time working on films that can help make difference. My film Adventures Not Dams was created to help raise awareness in the UK and all over the world, what damage hydro-power plants do to their surroundings and why turning over huge parts of the Balkans to rich energy companies, is not a good idea.
Expert experience lighting for TV, studio, location and green screen.
Experience shooting pre-records, VTs, documentary, live and news.
BBC Cameraman filming for BBC, Channel 4, ITV and international TV stations.
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