John Podpadec

I’ve specialised in lighting and single camerawork for broadcast television for over 20 years and have worked with some of the country’s best directors in producing documentaries and drama of the highest standard with many projects receiving awards from the RTS, BAFTA, The European Commission and others.

I suppose that if I had to say if I had any specialist area at all it would be ‘work with people’. People have always fascinated me, and I’d like to think that this comes across in my work through the respect I show to all of the subjects that appear in front of my camera.

I believe strongly in the collaborative nature of programme making and am fully prepared to accept my share of responsibility in this. The best piece of direction I’ve ever been given was simply, “John, make everything usable – and make sure it cuts!” After all that happens on location, it is the finished edit that endures.

Over the years I’ve been fortunate enough to develop skills in certain key areas of production, some of these are outlined below;

    * Drama and Dramatised Reconstruction

    * Handheld and Observational

    * Work with Artists

    * Stage Productions

    * Medical and Surgical

    * Work in Schools

    * Aerial Camerawork and Steadicam

I have experience of shooting with most digital video camcorders including the current Hi Definition offerings of both Sony and Panasonic. If I’m honest I would always prefer to work with a full sized camera rather than a mini DV version such as the Sony Z1.

I can provide both DigiBeta and DVcam shooting kits (based on the DVW790 and DSR450 camcorders) together with a comprehensive range of supporting equipment and lighting. For those wishing to shoot on Hi-Definition, Films at 59, who provide my diary service, can supply any kit that may be required.

I can provide a small studio of some 50 sq m, about 30min from Bristol.

A full credit list, photographs and video clips can be viewed on my website at www.Podpadec.co.uk or download my CV on the link below: