I have been working as a cinematographer for the past 14 years.  My love of cinematography emanates from a number of places, but I first started appreciating it through stills photography after buying my first 35mm Film SLR (which I still have to this day) and how the shape of light and framing would impact the mood of the image I was creating.   

Going freelance straight out of university, I started working on a huge variety of projects, from music videos, to lifestyle films, documentary work and eventually moving onto commercials too. After a number of years working on commercial and music projects of increasing scale, I have decided to also branch out into narrative fiction, looking for projects that intrigue and excite me; in that time I have shot 4 feature films, 25 short films and three series pilots.  The projects have been increasing in scope and budget and I've kept up with my usual commercial work alongside.  

I treat each project individually, never liking to push a the same style, instead, I look to adapt and work with a director to capture their vision for the project in a collaborative and distinct way.  I approach every project looking at how to tell the story. Camera and lens choice are all part of that decision.  I work with small and large crews and am happy operating as well as hands off camera.  I'm looking to connect with unique stories and people who inspire and challenge me as we allow each other to grow in our work. 

One extra thing to tell the world about myself is that I am the proud father of 4.  Although a small detail of my personal life, parenthood has changed my outlook on the world and driven me to constantly strive to become a better person to others, a mentor to younger crew and a calm support for directors at all times.   My wife tells me I should also tell her how wonderful she is for putting up with me for 17 years and sitting in for all my lighting tests in that time.

Please email me at jonathangnicol@googlemail.com 

My CV up until September 2023 can be viewed here: jonathan-nicol-cv.pdf