About

I'm Sam, a wildlife & adventure  camera operator and drone pilot (CAA/FAA), based in Bristol.  My recent work covers a range of bluechip wildlife series, from the likes of:  Apple TV+, BBC, Channel 4, Channel 5, Amazon.

You can check out my recent credits/CV here.

 

My filming covers a wide range of skills such as  long lens, drone, gimbal, GSS/Shotover, high-speed, low-light, camera trapping & macro. With extensive experience using the latest broadcast technology from brands such as RED, Arri, Phantom, Sony & ZCAM.

 

I have built and operated  GSS 516 systems  on location for vehicle based work - this state-of-the-art gimbal stabilised system allows for smooth vehicle tracking shots up to 1000mm focal length.

 

I'm a resilient and self-motivated individual that  thrives in tough environments, having  filmed sequences from Namibia to Hokkaido, and many places in-between. With a solid editorial understanding I have experience filming character driven sequences with a grounding in strong cinematography.

 

Fuelled by the innate beauty of the natural world I have always strived to capture unique species and ecosystems through the medium of film. Motivated by the need to protect these iconic creatures and spaces I hope my films go some way to raising awareness of  our need to conserve them.

 

I love the opportunity to work with new people, so please don't hesitate to reach out and get in touch! 

Sam Oakes at Laguna Torre Cerro Torre Patagonia