Contract: Freelance (project based)
Location: On-location across Manchester / North UK
Apply with: reel, brief kit list (if applicable), day rate, base location
Usual Day Rate: £650-£800pd
Starting Date: Imminent

We’re growing our Manchester roster after recent shoots in the city (including two national FatFace campaigns and a New York Times pilot). We’re looking for a reliable, creative Director of Photography to lead camera and lighting on lean, interview-led productions and small branded/doc projects.

The role

You’ll lead image and lighting on set, collaborating closely with a producer or creative lead. Many shoots are single-shooter with a producer assisting, so you’ll be comfortable running small, efficient setups, moving quickly, and keeping things tidy from first frame to final slate.

What you’ll do

• Camera & lighting leadership: define look/approach, execute consistently on the day
• Interview lighting: confident with book lights, practicals, negative fill/flags, and exterior setups
• Run lean crews: operate solo or with a small team; direct AC/sound as needed
• Coverage & b-roll: capture clean, cuttable sequences and story-led b-roll
• On-set pace & safety: keep schedule realistic, manage risks, maintain calm, professional sets
• Collaboration: work closely with producer/director and contributors; take feedback well

What you’ll bring

• Strong operating skills and an eye for story, pace, and composition
• Proven interview lighting, including mixed-environment problem-solving (offices, homes, outdoors)
• Solid knowledge of camera menus, codecs, monitoring, and data discipline
• Clear communication and the ability to represent the brand professionally on client sets
• Full UK driving licence preferred; comfortable travelling across the North

Nice to have

• Own kit (not essential but helpful): Sony FX6 or similar cinema/large-sensor setup; fast primes/zoom; basic G&E (stands, flags/neg, diffusion, practicals/dimmers); wireless video helpful
• Clean audio workflow with a sound op or basic backup kit for lean shoots
• Experience delivering for multi-format outputs (hero + social cut-downs)

Working with Here Now Films

• Lean, senior crews with clear briefs and tidy delivery packs
• Mix of branded documentary, corporate interviews, and campaign content
• Straightforward comms, quick approvals, and respectful sets

How to apply

Email careers@herenow.film with subject: “Manchester — DOP — [Your Name]” and include:

• Link to your reel/portfolio
• Kit list (if applicable)
• Day rate and availability
• Base location and willingness to travel

If you’re a good fit, we’ll set up a short intro call and add you to our Manchester bookings.