Description
I’m Michael Nelson, a Cherokee filmmaker and camera operator with a documentary-first mindset and a strong background in fast-paced, real-world production. I’m comfortable walking onto a set and immediately adding value—operating A-cam, building a clean interview package, running audio in a pinch, and grabbing high-impact b-roll under pressure. My experience includes a reality-show pilot for WE tv in Los Angeles, production work on HGTV’s Living Alaska in Anchorage, and field support on History’s Ancient Aliens in Nashville.
My strengths are run-and-gun coverage, visual storytelling, and calm problem-solving when the plan changes mid-sentence. Years of ENG work trained me to move fast without getting sloppy: clean composition, steady handheld work, motivated movement, and disciplined focus on exposure, color, and audio so post doesn’t have to rescue the day. I’m comfortable shooting interviews, vérité, and live moments; working with talent and non-actors; and collaborating with producers, reporters, and editors to match the tone of the story. I approach every shoot with respect for subjects and communities, and I bring cultural awareness to projects involving Native stories—no performative “representation,” just honest work and accountability.
Technically, I’m fluent in modern digital workflows and can adapt to whatever the production is running. I currently shoot on a Sony A7R I, emphasizing sharp focus, consistent exposure, and clean, organized media handoff. I’m comfortable handheld, on sticks, or in tight spaces where you don’t get a second take, and I communicate clearly so the day stays moving.
I’m based in Tulsa, Oklahoma and available to travel. I’m crew-friendly, safety-minded, and reliable on call times. If you need a dependable shooter who can think like a storyteller and execute like a technician, I’m ready to roll.
Special Skills & Experience
• Run-and-gun Doc/ENG cinematography
• Interviews: single/multi-subject, vérité, observational coverage
• B-roll that cuts: sequencing, inserts, cutaways, continuity awareness
• Handheld stability + fast tripod transitions
• Natural-light shaping; mixed-color environments
• Portable interview lighting; rapid setups; practicals/available light
• Audio basics: lav setup, levels, quick troubleshooting, clean dialogue priority
• Editor-friendly workflow: organized media, file naming, backups, clean handoff
• Calm under pressure; adapts to shifting plans/deadlines
• Weather/crowd/uncontrolled-location shooting
• Clear communication w/ producers + talent; takes direction fast; self-directed coverage
• Respectful approach to sensitive subjects; professional discretion
• Cherokee cultural competence; Native-story accountability (non-performative)
• Travel-ready; long days/early calls; reliable on call time
• Valid driver; comfortable w/ production/station vehicles
• Works solo or within larger crews; utility/PA support when needed