James Doughty – Aerial, Underwater & Wildlife Film & Photography

Bermuda-born and ocean-bred, I’m a cinematographer/ Photographer specialising in underwater and wildlife storytelling. My work spans from open-ocean expeditions to deep in the African bush, adapting to challenging conditions with technical precision and creative flexibility.

With five years of experience in wildlife, travel and tourism media production, I’ve contributed to campaigns ranging from smaller specialised projects to large-scale international shoots. Backed by two decades in the marine industry as a professional sailor and over a decade of diving with more than 1,000 dives logged, I bring a rare combination of field expertise, logistical know-how, and creative vision to every production.

I craft immersive, story-driven sequences through dynamic movement, layered imagery, and strong narrative focus—whether working solo or as part of a larger crew.

My work has been featured on CNN, The New York Times, Smithsonian Institute, Greenpeace, Condé Nast Traveler, and field projects with reputable organisations such as the Bermuda Institute of Ocean Sciences (ASU), African Wildlife Conservation Fund, and The Aspinall Foundation.

Core skills & strengths include:

• Underwater, topside, and aerial cinematography

• Long-lens and gimbal work

• Traditional lighting and gaffing

• Camera Operation Sony FX series, RED DSMC2/Raptor, RED Komodo systems.

• Underwater camera operation in Nauticam and Gates housings

• DJI Mavic 3/4 drones and FPV Avata drones.

• SUA (Drone) Operator certification (British Over Seas Territories)

• PADI Dive Master

• RYA Yacht Master

• SDI Advanced Nitrox and Sidemount

• GUE Fundamentals

If your production calls for a camera operator, cinematographer with strong visual instincts, field-tested endurance, and the ability to deliver beautiful, story-relevant material under pressure - I have the skill set and creative ability to bring your vision to life.