Farrell Saunders (Camera Operator)

 



Farrell operates the second camera on set, after our director and cinematographer, Chris. He’s a slick, practiced professional, and I love watching how seamlessly he and Chris work together. It’s like poetry the way they weave around, capturing images just so, seeing light like no one else can. They are magicians with form and colour, and they are the reason our footage is so darn BEAUTIFUL. Also, they work free-form, so no stands, they just move freely with their 14kg cameras (and to think that I still have the audacity to grumble inwardly from time to time when it feels like I’ve been on my feet for a million years).

I also love Farrell’s keenness. Any opportunity to do something cool, see something new, experience something different, learn a new filming trick, he’s all in. Also, you know what, he’s unbelievably humble. I’ve never heard him second guess Chris, he’s totally open to listening and learning, and that is so, so admirable; and it’s what makes him so good at what he does.

Here’s what he had to say about the whole Food Safari experience
“The Lions were an eye opener for me. I’ve never been that close to them before and when I heard them roar and charge for their meat I learned a Brand New Respect.
PERSEVERANCE, live in the Now and get through 6 weeks of shooting. I would do it again. Respect! Thank you all for the opportunity.”

PS Farrell and his girlfriend Catherine had a little boy during our shoot, Phoenix, and I know that he’s going to be the most generous, thoughtful, caring Dad. Congrats again!

Photo’s from ‘Sarah Graham’s Food Safari’ by Ricardo de Leça.