Documentary cinematographer
Films about people and nature
Photo: Òscar Domínguez
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Photo: Joris van Alphen & Christian Ziegler
About Joris van Alphen
Joris van Alphen is a documentary cinematographer specializing in films about people and nature.
From camping in the canopy of a fig tree deep in the Amazon rainforest to diving unexplored coral reefs in the northern Moluccas, Joris has extensive experience working in remote locations. Growing up with biologist parents, he embarked on his first field trip to Africa at the age of three. He went on to study biology himself but left a career in science to become a full-time filmmaker and photographer. His work has since spanned five continents for clients including National Geographic and the BBC Natural History Unit.
Cinema, TV & Streaming Productions
I love the craft and the collaborative nature of filmmaking. I work primarily as a director of photography (DP) and occasionally as a director.
I have worked on high-end documentary series and films for commissioners such as BBC, National Geographic, Disney, Apple, Arte, NBC/Peacock, HBO, and NHK. Feature films I have worked on include the IMAX documentary Arctic: Our Frozen Planet and the acclaimed Dutch film De Nieuwe Wildernis. Currently, I’m working as the DP of Guardians of the Microcosm.
People and Nature
Films that explore the relationship between people and nature are my specialty: stories about communities living with nature, conservationists fighting to protect our environment, and scientists dedicating their lives to its exploration. I also work directly with NGO’s and institutes to help them communicate their work.
Stories that Drive Change
Nature conservation stories are about people as much as wildlife — from the problems we create and the people who suffer the consequences to those who dedicate their lives to solving them. I tell stories to inspire people to act on environmental and social issues. That means shedding light not only on problems but also solutions.
Since 2013 I’ve been a Fellow of the International League of Conservation Photographers. Organizations I’ve worked with include Save Our Seas Foundation, WildAid, WWF, Centro de Conservación Cetacea, Bhutan Foundation, and Dutch Montagu’s Harrier Foundation.
Science and Exploration
We live in a time of growing mistrust in scientific research and the integrity of scientists and institutions. People don't naturally change their beliefs when we present them with facts. But they do respond to personal stories about people they can relate to, and film is a powerful tool to tell such stories. In my work I strive to both explain and humanize science.
Institutes I’ve worked with include Naturalis Biodiversity Center, University of Groningen, Sabah Parks, and Ugyen Wangchuck Institute for Conservation and Environment.
Clients
Some of the organizations that have commissioned and licensed my work:
