I'm Hitesh Makan, an award-winning Director of Photography, Filmmaker and Cameraman. I'm available for hire to work on your next project anywhere in the world.
Director of Photography
Welcome to Makan Films. I’m an award-winning, talented, flexible and creative Director of Photography (DoP) and cameraman. I am BBC trained with over 20 years experience. I have traveled the world, worked with and learned from the best, often in extreme environments documenting life on earth. From the jungles of Borneo, the mountains of Sri Lanka or even the savannas of Africa I have captured them all on camera. I am the DoP you’re looking for.
Cameraman
I have extensive experience filming across many genres and subjects: documentaries, actuality, wildlife, science, children’s, drama reconstructions, studio, location, commercials and corporates. This variety has given me the opportunity to improve my artistic and technical skills allowing me to work with speed, calmness, and confidence whatever the situation. It also makes me adept as a cameraman working in ‘extreme’ and challenging situations.
Production
As well as working together with major production companies Makan Films can also produce your films from script to screen. We have a wealth of experienced script writers, directors, cameramen and sound people on hand to help produce your next project. Whatever your budget we can deliver your message with beautiful storytelling, imagery and content. Please get in touch for a no obligation discussion to see how we can help you.
Films
Please take some time to browse though some of my most recent projects below...
I started my career at BBC Bristol’s Natural History Unit working in production where I learnt about researching, directing, producing and editing. These skills have been invaluable to me throughout my profession. It taught me that filmmaking is about team work and I have always been happy to be part of it. Having the wealth of talented camera people and cutting-edge technology at the NHU allowed me to improve my knowledge rapidly. I enjoyed the challenges of getting those ‘impossible’ shots. After leaving the BBC, I continued learning my skills as a camera assistant before finally becoming a cameraman. I am DBS (CRB) checked as wells having an ‘I’ visa for America.
Specialisation
I specialise in factual documentaries, actuality, wildlife, science, history, architectural and corporates. Whether it be presenter-led, heavily stylised, straight interviews or just following the action I am comfortable with them all. I am also highly adept at lighting design and lighting but relish the challenges that arise from working in low and available light.
Equipment
I shoot on all flavours of HD, 2k, 4k and even 6K on cameras such as the Red, Arri Alexa LF, Amira, Sony A7s/FS7/F5/55/Venice, Canon C300, 500 amongst others. I am experienced at lighting design and working with a variety of fixtures from HMI’s to LEDS. Grip equipment such as sliders, mini jibs, track and dolly, gimbals, are tools available to help boost those production values.
Awards
BAFTA – Best Live Event –Blue Planet Live 2
Kidscreen 2020 nomination – Best mixed animated series – Yakka Dee
Japan Prize 2020 finalist – Audiovisual Works – Yakka Dee
BAFTA nomination – Children’s – Best Comedy – Gigglebiz S4
BAFTA nomination – Children’s – Minibeast Adventures with Jess
Asian Television Award – Highly Commended for Cinematography – Malaysia From Below
Asian Television Award – Best Natural History Programme – Malaysia From Below
Missoula Wildlife Film Festival – Best Children’s Series Award – Inside LIFE
Emmy Nomination – Series 7 Mythbusters
BAFTA nomination – Series 18 The Really Wild Show
BAFTA nomination – Really Wild Show Tiger Special
BAFTA – Photography – Wildlife on ONE Polar Bear Special
Happy Clients
Here are some kind words from extremely satisfied customers!
slide 2 to 4 of 6
A wonderfully creative man to have to have on board.
Hitesh has an eye for creating beautiful images.
He’s a great team player and an invaluable member of the crew.
He’s always my first choice of DoP.
I wish he wasn’t so busy so I could hire him!
On any location, for any shot we needed – Hitesh found a beautiful way to shoot it.
A wonderfully creative man to have to have on board.
Hitesh has an eye for creating beautiful images.
He’s a great team player and an invaluable member of the crew.
He’s always my first choice of DoP.
Contact Me
You can get in touch with me directly using the following options
