






WE WERE THEN
Short Film
1st AC / gaffer
This short film follows an elderly wedding venue gardener reflecting on how societal norms around same-sex love have evolved. In a heartfelt conversation with his deceased partner, he mourns the love he never had the freedom to express in his youth.
I worked as both First Assistant Camera (1st AC) and Gaffer, supporting the Director of Photography in realising a soft, nostalgic tone. Although the project is still in post-production, it offered invaluable experience, particularly in adapting quickly to creative and technical challenges on set, such as building atmospheric lighting setups under time pressure.
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As 1st AC:
– Maintained precise focus during dynamic camera moves and intimate close-ups
– Handled lens swaps and accessories to match changing lighting and locations
– Assisted with shot composition and ensured smooth camera operation
As Gaffer:
– Collaborated with the DoP to craft lighting schemes that matched the film’s emotional tone
– Safely rigged and adjusted lighting setups across varied environments
– Balanced practical and natural light to maintain visual continuity
This project strengthened my ability to think technically and creatively under pressure. It also deepened my understanding of how lighting and camera work together to enhance emotional storytelling — a perspective I bring to all forms of visual content, including branded and social media work.