DP, Manchester Doc Series

BlockReel; Manchester; Hybrid; GBP 139,000 - 208,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Travel within Manchester

Meals provided

Job summary

BlockReel is seeking an experienced Director of Photography for a standalone documentary series along Manchester's historic waterways. This freelance role calls for a naturalistic, intimate visual style and the ability to capture character-driven stories in real-world environments.

You should bring your own camera package capable of 4K cinema resolution and essential lighting/grip gear. The project spans 10–12 shoot days between early and mid‑November 2026, with 8–10 hour days.

Qualifications

• Own professional camera package capable of 4K cinema resolution.
• Essential lighting and grip gear.
• Portfolio reel demonstrating documentary work.

Responsibilities

• Lead principal photography and lighting.
• Collaborate with the director to achieve the desired aesthetic.

Job description

Explore the unseen lives of Manchester's canal boat communities, a rich tapestry of resilience and unique urban living. We're seeking an experienced Director of Photography (DP) for a compelling independent documentary series focusing on the human stories found along the city's historic waterways. This project aims for a naturalistic, intimate visual style, capturing both the challenges and beauty of this distinctive lifestyle. The ideal candidate will have a keen eye for character-driven storytelling and the ability to work discreetly in real-world environments. You'll be responsible for all principal photography, lighting, and working closely with the director to achieve the desired aesthetic. We require someone with their own professional camera package (e.g., capable of 4K cinema resolution, suitable for documentary work) and essential lighting/grip gear. Please share your reel demonstrating strong documentary or narrative work. This is a freelance role, budgeted for approximately 10-12 shoot days spread across early November 2026 and mid-November 2026, with an estimated 8-10 hour workday. Travel within Manchester and some meals will be provided. Compensation is $1000-1500 per day, negotiable based on experience and kit.

November 22, 2026.

Budget Range

$1000-1500/day