Mixel - Stephen Greaves

Stephen Greaves

Stephen is a highly dedicated, organized, and flexible creative broadcasting professional with 19 years of experience. He is exceptionally skilled in a diverse range of cinematic broadcast sectors, overseeing all creative aspects from pre-production to production and post-production. With a specialization in director of photography and editing, Stephen brings a unique set of talents to any project he works on.

Recent Work

Documentaries

I often work with Amazon. Al Jazeera International. ABC Australia. Seven Network Australia. Nine Network Australia. BBC World News. Dyson. Vice. Spotx. Al Jazeera Arabic.

60 Minutes Australia | Seven Sharp | BBC Documentaries | Talk to Al Jazeera | Four Corners | Spotlight

Production Update

As a creative professional and small business owner in the production industry, I always strive to innovate and stay up-to-date with industry trends.

I am excited to share with you the latest equipment and projects I have worked on in 2022 and 2023, both in New York and abroad.

Thanks to my multi-disciplined skill set, I have the ability to shoot a variety of genres, including documentary filming with BBC and high-profile multi-camera interview shoots for 60 Minutes Australia. I enjoy the challenge of shooting and lighting multi-camera interview set-ups or working in the field, capturing the story as it unfolds.

Recently, I have upgraded my multi-camera interview capabilities with Sony's latest line of cameras, the FX6 and FX3. I have also invested in latest lighting technology from Aputure and can now switch and preview up to four cameras on location via Zoom for remote interview set-ups.

I am passionate about every project I undertake and the technical tools I have invested in to meet my clients' production needs.

Sony Cinema Cameras

The Sony FX6 and FX3 cameras are my preferred tools for work due to their outstanding capabilities. Both cameras feature S-Cinetone cinematic color science, full-frame image sensors, and impressive dynamic range, making them a perfect fit for multi-camera productions, well-lit interiors, and outdoor documentary shooting.

Furthermore, the cameras' portability is one of their main advantages, enabling more creative and dynamic shots. This is precisely why I have chosen the Sony FX6 and FX3 cameras for my work.

Interview Lighting

I take pleasure in creating a moody and dramatic atmosphere when lighting interviews. Recently, I upgraded my lighting kit to offer the softest possible key light for interview shoots. It features a large light source that provides maximum softness, contrast, and control.

To achieve this, I use the Aputure LS 600d, which is an ideal lighting tool for interviews. When paired with the Light Dome, it provides an even wrap around the subject while reducing light spill.

- Aputure LS 600d Pro Light Storm Daylight LED Light
- Aputure F10 Fresnel
- Aputure Light Dome II (34.8")
- Aputure Light Storm LS 60x Bi-Color LED Light

Multi-Camera Viewing / Zoom

Due to the ongoing pandemic and the shift towards the hybrid work model, remote interviews have become more popular than ever before. As a result, many of my clients now request interviews to be conducted via Zoom.

To ensure a smooth and efficient remote interview process, I use the Atomos Ninja Cast. This device allows me to monitor and switch up to four cameras directly into my laptop via USB-C, providing clients with real-time framing approval. Additionally, the Atomos Ninja Cast enhances the interview experience by offering a more dynamic and engaging setup.

Documentary Filming

In 2022, I had the opportunity to film a documentary titled "Grenada, Confronting The Past" in Grenada, in collaboration with the BBC.

To bring this project to life, I selected the Sony FX6 cinema camera and the Easyrig Minimax STABIL light gimbal/camera support system.

The FX6 proved to be the ideal camera for capturing this documentary due to its compact and lightweight design, which enabled me to be highly mobile and creative in a fast-paced environment where I needed to keep up with the action while keeping gear size to a minimum.

About me

With 19 years of experience, I consider myself a highly dedicated, organized, and adaptable broadcasting professional. I have exceptional skills in a wide range of broadcast sectors, including camera operations, editing, workflow creation, team collaboration, and meeting strict on-air deadlines. In terms of equipment, I own and operate a variety of Sony cameras, including the Sony Fx9, Fx6, and Fx3. Additionally, I am FAA-approved for commercial drone operations.

Cinematography and editing

As a freelance contractor, I work with various high-profile clients such as National Geographic, Vice, Amazon, Al Jazeera English, ITN, BBC, and SpotX to produce and manage broadcast content across multiple platforms. This includes broadcast TV, online streaming, and social media, such as Instagram vertical content.

production and planning

As a collaborator with both producers and clients, I prioritize meeting deadlines and ensuring clear communication. At companies like Amazon, Vice, and ABC, I have held roles where I managed video content production and provided stylistic direction. My experience includes effectively managing client briefs, working within set time frames, and adhering to project budgets.

broadcast production

My expertise includes operating Sony Fx9, Fx6, F5, and Fs7ii cameras, as well as editing platforms and live streaming/encoding systems such as LiveU and Dejero.

Attributes

My strengths lie in being a team player, as I have extensive experience working in productions and newsrooms throughout my career. I am adaptable to new workflows and environments, and I take pride in problem-solving and creating high-quality content for each project I work on. I have worked with clients like Vice, ABC, Al Jazeera, TRT World News, BBC, Seven, and Nine News Australia across the USA, Asia, and Australia. Additionally, I maintain a comprehensive list of recommended contacts that I can rely on to quickly assemble a professional team for filming or post-production purposes.