About

I'm Bradley Holdaway, a New Zealand filmmaker with a deep passion for storytelling and a specialty in cinematography. My journey began with writing, evolved into a love for film, and solidified during my first year of film school when I discovered the magic of capturing stories through the lens.

While I still aspire to be an auteur, my work as a cinematographer allows me to bring my unique vision to life. I lean toward darker, dramatic aesthetics that explore the human condition — drama and thrillers are my favourite space to work in, though I experiment and grow with every project.

Filmmaking isn't just a career to me — it's the thing I'm most driven by. I want to make work that makes people feel something, and I'm always chasing the next project that lets me do that.

My Creative Process

Every project begins with understanding the heart of the story. In pre-production, I dig into the script and work closely with the director to build a visual style that complements the narrative, storyboarding meticulously so every shot is planned before we roll. On set, I focus on capturing authentic moments through precise framing, lighting and camera movement — technically sound, but always in service of the story. 

Lessons That Shaped Me

Filmmaking is full of surprises — technical malfunctions, unpredictable weather, and moments that demand quick decisions have all been part of the journey. Those challenges taught me the value of preparation, adaptability, and staying collaborative under pressure. Every project is a chance to learn and expand my skillset, and that's one of the things I love most about the job. 

What’s with the name?

Exiled Pictures takes its name from one of my earliest creative projects, but it's grown to represent the heart of my storytelling. My work leans into the darker, harder parts of the human condition — Exiled Pictures isn't about escapism, it's about facing life's struggles head-on and telling stories that stay with people after the credits roll.