Ryan Heron

Ryan’s career emerged from the world of documentary filmmaking. Realising early on that cameramen were rather expensive, he decided to pick up a camera and do it himself instead. Not only did he save on budget, he also gained the technical skills that enrich his style and perspective today. Four years after completing his first feature length documentary, Ryan returned to New Zealand to take up a position directing MTV News while concurrently building a strong resume as a commercial director in the advertising industry.

Ryan’s natural talent as a cinematographer is paired with an ability to generate high impact imagery with even the smallest of crews. He cultivates relaxed, comfortable environments on set and in turn gets the most out of people in front of the camera, opening the gateway to intimate moments and an insight into the human experience. His technical understanding is also the foundation to creating visually compelling work on a larger scale within the advertising industry.

With the selection of his short film Return into a number of A-list international film festivals, the New Zealand Film Commission realised that he was a talent to get behind. Last year Ryan balanced his commercial work with the production of two documentaries, including a one hour film for Red Bull TV shot on four different continents. He continues to make smaller, more intimate and personal documentaries too – Bludgeon, which follows modern day medieval knights from the Taranaki on their journey to the world champs in Denmark.

Always leading with a personable approach, Ryan has made it his mission to get people talking and relaxed on camera, regardless of whether it’s a nervous bride-to-be or a man on trial for murder. He’s quick to adapt, to be flexible, to think on his feet and get results instantly within what can typically be an unpredictable and high pressure environment.