​​D  A  V  I  D    P A L F R E Y

Based in the UK, I’m an underwater camera operator and filmmaker drawn to wild places and the stories unfolding beneath the surface. My work sits at the intersection of science, conservation and adventure, blending creative techniques with a passionate drive to make environmental storytelling resonate. I thrive in remote environments and challenging conditions worldwide. I believe ocean stories deserve more than quiet attention, and my aim is to shake audiences out of indifference and spark fresh attention around stories that matter. 

Shooting Experience

• Underwater, topside, aerial & remote camera operator.
• Capable of self-shooting and self-directing.
• Experienced in live event, feature films, natural history, commercial, drama and documentary productions.

I am experienced with most major cinematic systems and have enjoyed aiding in the design and operation of bespoke camera kits. I am a licensed CAA drone pilot and operate my own DJI Mavic 2 Pro and gimbal. ​With experience of specialist robotic cameras, camera tracking systems, gimbals and ROV's. I enjoy working entirely independently or with a production team across any aquatic genre.

Diving Experience

• HSE Part 4 commercial diver, BSAC Dive Instructor, TDI Solo Diver, Advanced Freediver and a Closed Circuit Rebreather Mod 1 certified​ Revo III owner.
• Scientific diver, surveyor & skipper.
• Extensive remote location experience in SE Asia, The South Pacific, Australasia and the Caribbean (10 years)

Having worked in conservation and marine research, I have 3000+ logged dives behind the camera in varying conditions as a predominantly independent diver. I strive to have minimal impact on the natural world around me and have a profound respect for safety and wildlife. During this time I have witnessed rare and exciting natural events and developed a strong understanding of animal behaviour. 

Multi Skilled

• Experienced at researching and developing narratives from pre-production phases to post-production.
• Freelance camera technician with remote systems, bespoke cameras and ROV experience.
• Competent editor trained in edit assisting workflows on Avid, Premiere and DaVinci workflows.

I am safe and efficient data wrangler and able to create edits and rough assemblies on location. A self proclaimed kit nerd who loves problem solving and developing creative solutions. Growing up on the Welsh coast, I have substantial marine experience and am a qualified power boat driver, tall sail ships crew member and sailor. 

Production Work & Credits

• 2026 - SHARK! Celebrity infested Waters (Australia)- ITV/Plimsoll Productions
• 2026 - Deadly 60 - Series 7 - BBC NHU
  
• 2025 - The One Show - Octopus! - Bryan Leith Productions
• 2025 - SHARK! Celebrity infested Waters - ITV/Plimsoll Productions

• 2025 - Mission: Impossible - The Final Reckoning - Cruise/Wagner Productions & Skydance Media

• 2024 - Deadly 60 - Series 5 - BBC NHU

• 2023 - Fast and Furious X - Universal Studios

• 2023 - Deadly Mission Shark - BBC NHU
• 2023 - Spy In The Ocean - BBC / John Downer Productions
• 2020 - Ocean Souls - Ocean Souls Films / Wildlife Media
• 2013 - Doctor Who - Series 7 - BBC Cymru
• 2012 - Pobol Y Cwm - BBC Cymru/S4C

I love a challenge, am always up for hearing about potential projects.
I look forward to hearing from you.