01 Tell us a bit about you. Did you always want to be a business owner, what motivated you to start your videography business?
I began my career as a product designer, where I honed my skills as a professional creative, collaborating with a variety of clients. From early on, I knew I wanted to start my own business, but it wasn’t until I moved to France that the opportunity finally presented itself. It was there that I discovered my passion for filmmaking, and in 2012, I launched Zen Film Works. I was drawn to filmmaking for the adventure, the connections it fostered, and the artistic creativity it allowed me to express through storytelling.
02 What do you think distinguishes an exceptional videographer from a good videographer? And how are you different from other videographers in the industry?
I believe the key distinction between a good videographer and a great one comes down to experience and a deep understanding of the client. It’s not just about technical skill or having top-tier equipment—although those are essential—but also about truly connecting with the couple. This means understanding how they’re feeling on the day, what brings them joy, why they’ve chosen to craft their wedding the way they have, and what truly matters to them. By delving into their motivations, you can create a film that authentically reflects their personalities and captures the essence of their day.
While cinematic expertise is important, experience plays a critical role when things don’t go as planned. When the lighting isn’t ideal, the locations don’t match your expectations, or the couple feels camera-shy, it’s that experience that allows me to adapt seamlessly, ensuring the film remains beautiful and meaningful despite any challenges. My experience helps me quickly adjust to unexpected circumstances, keeping everything stress-free for the couple while still delivering a stunning result.
03 What are some of the unique challenges you have as a videographer working on luxury events?
Managing the unpredictability of shooting a live event. We have to quickly assess the situation, from setting up equipment and evaluating natural light to considering composition and blocking, all while making split-second decisions that will ensure we capture the highest quality footage possible with the setting we're given.
04 Were you always creative or was it a passion you found later on?
Creativity has always been at the core of my journey—starting with art in school, evolving into design at university, and now, leading two video production companies. My life has been a continuous flow of creative and exhilarating experiences.
05 What will you never compromise on with your business?
I am unwavering in my commitment to delivering exceptional quality across all aspects of our work. This includes the excellence of our service from the initial contact, the high standards of our films, and the overall client experience. We pride ourselves on being adaptable to meet our clients' expectations, ensuring they feel heard, understood, and valued throughout the entire process.
06 How has videography changed the way you look at life?
Videography has deepened my appreciation for the beauty around me. At any venue, I’m always on the lookout for stunning vistas, intriguing textures, and captivating compositions. This perspective extends beyond work—I constantly find myself admiring things like a striking tree, the way light plays on a building, or the charm of a shadow or countryside valley. This constant awareness keeps me inspired and fosters a sense of appreciation and happiness.
07 What is your favourite subject to capture, and why?
I have two very contrasting subjects loves. I love shooting fashion and fashion-forward couples because it merges two creative elements into a single result. The craftsmanship, emotion, and story that a dress can evoke is creatively inspiring. When this design is paired with a gorgeous model, dynamic movement and a beautiful backdrop it all comes alive in the most beautiful symbiotic creative moment.
And then there’s my love of capturing nature and wildlife. Observing and documenting intimate, often unseen moments in the natural world feels so special to me. Nature is a theatre of beauty, excitement and untold stories.
08 Who is your ideal client?
Those who value creativity and imagination over budget constraints. They love the outlandish push of the imagination and exploring what is possible in terms of transporting their guests to another world. They love the camera, and fashion, and are generally joyful, cheerful individuals who appreciate a good laugh and a glass of champagne.
09 How would you describe your videography style and how did it originate?
I believe my videography style is both timeless and cinematic. We adhere to classic cinematic techniques and steer clear of fleeting trends that won't stand the test of time. After all, no one wants to cringe at their wedding video a decade from now. My goal is for my films to be cherished and admired for years to come. Creating a legacy film that remains a treasured family keepsake for generations is all about achieving timelessness.
10 How do you handle the pressures and responsibilities that come with working in the luxury sector?
I think my drive to make my clients in the high-net-worth luxury sector feel comfortable, happy and looked after helps me manage the associated pressures. My passion for delivering exceptional results helps me overcome any stress, and I take great satisfaction in knowing that our clients feel they made the right choice in partnering with us.
11 What is the best piece of advice you could offer prospective clients when deciding who to have as their videographer?
My advice is to trust your gut. If you can, try not to let price be your deciding factor. Instead, focus on the body of work, the person who will be shooting and how both of these make you feel. Work with someone who will be a positive asset to your day in your most intimate moments. See how flexible they are with what you want delivered and how well they can accommodate your vision.
Curious Quick-fires:
01 What’s your favourite restaurant in Europe?
It has to be 3-star Azurmendi in northern Spain. A flagship of the Biscayan fine dining scene and a leading light in the field of sustainability, Azurmendi is a shining example of how to work with the environment.
02 Best luxury that’s a necessity?
Good quality food and a great day spa.
03 What’s the last podcast you listened to or a book you read?
Right now, I’m listening to "The Dangerous Art Of The Documentary," which explores how to discover and develop a compelling story and present it in an engaging and entertaining way.
04 Best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
Always be honest and appreciate your life and health.
