James Lea

Covered hurricanes, tropical storms, tornadoes, blizzards, and other significant weather events as, live shot camera operator, actuality videographer, and producer. Freelance work continues on an ongoing basis.

Freelance DP, camera operator, producer, director... Shot news and features interviews and reenactments for networks around the world.

My company produced a 51 minute documentary film about the Upper Big Branch mine explosion for a client in West Virginia, and I served as executive producer and director of photography. The film may be seen at http://ubbneveragain.com.

Acted as DP and co-producer for 30 second commercial for Brain Balance, a nationally franchised company that helps children cope with Autism, ADD, dyslexia, and a related disorders.

Acted as a one-man-band DP/Camera Operator for a sizzle reel for a reality show titled Sisters in Law. This one day shoot comprised of several interview setups and b-roll.

Worked with a producer to shoot, produce, and edit a 10 minute promotional video entitled "American Common Sense" for an energy company executive.

Shot interviews and B-Roll of a mega RV for an episode of the show.

Worked as a camera operator covering the cast of The Shed as they participated in a BBQ competition in Galax, VA.

Served as one-man-band DP/camera operator for an episode about soapstone kitchen sinks. Shot in a soapstone quarry and fabrication plant.

DP and camera operator on a two day shoot in Jamestown, VA.

Camera operator on a short film entitled "Game Over." https://vimeo.com/65253504

Field Camera Operator and DP for the 700 Club, 700 Club Interactive, Marketing, and Special Projects.

Acted as DP, camera operator, and/or director on approximately 200 shoots for the network. Shoots included interviews, dramatic reenactments, and news.

Director of Photography and Principal Camera Operator Please view some of the rushes here: https://vimeo.com/60177045

Director of Photography and Camera Operator for historical reenactments. You may view the work here: https://vimeo.com/59420902

Shot, produced, directed, and edited commercials for local clients on the Outer Banks of NC and surrounding areas.

Produced, shot, and edited hang gliding training film for Kitty Hawk Kites on the Outer Banks of NC.

Provided footage for several episodes of the TWC series "Storm Stories."

I was at the Pentagon on 9/11/2001 and had one of the first signals available for downlink after the plane crashed into the building. I spent over 40 days covering the aftermath from the media compound located just south of the Pentagon, overlooking the crash site.

Provided severe weather and disaster footage to RTV News over a period of several years.

Freelance DP - Flew numerous search and rescue missions with USCG Air Station Elizabeth City in both C130 and HH60J aircraft.