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 thrive on creating imagery that resonates emotionally, leaning toward darker, dramatic aesthetics that explore the human condition. My favourite projects to work on are drama/thrillers, though I experiment and grow with every piece I create.

For me, filmmaking is more than a career—it’s the most fun job in the world. I’m driven by the desire to craft meaningful art that makes people feel something. In the long term, I aim to empower New Zealand filmmakers to break free from industry restrictions, though I’m focused on mastering that for myself first.

When I’m not behind the camera, I’m likely researching filmmaking techniques, exploring the technical side of the craft, or indulging in gaming, YouTube and watching Movies. Filmmaking consumes most of my interests, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.

If you’re looking for a passionate, ambitious collaborator to bring your narrative vision to life, let’s connect.

My Creative Process

Every project begins with understanding the heart of the story. In pre-production, I delve into the script and collaborate closely with the director to craft a visual style that complements the narrative as well as meticulously crafting a storyboard to plan every shot in advance and ensure that the story is told in the best way possible. During production, I focus on capturing authentic moments through precise framing, lighting, and movement.

Lessons That Shaped Me

Filmmaking is full of surprises—technical malfunctions, unpredictable weather, and the need for quick decision-making have all been part of my journey. These challenges taught me the importance of preparation, adaptability, and maintaining a collaborative spirit under pressure, every project is an opportunity to learn and expand my skillset and that's something I love about the job.

What’s with the name?

Exiled Pictures takes its name from one of my earliest creative projects, but it has grown to represent the heart of my storytelling. My work delves into the darker and more challenging aspects of the human condition—exploring themes of despair, inner conflict, and existential dread.

The name reflects the emotional weight and serious tone of the stories I tell, aiming to uncover truths about what it means to be human. Exiled Pictures isn’t about escapism; it’s about facing life’s struggles head-on and crafting narratives that linger long after the credits roll.

Ready to Collaborate?

If you’re working on a project that needs a cinematographer with a keen eye for detail and a passion for storytelling, I’d love to hear from you. Let’s work together to bring your vision to life and create something truly memorable. 

Empowering New Zealand Filmmakers

New Zealand has a wealth of talent, but many face challenges in bringing their stories to life. I’m passionate about finding ways to overcome these barriers and contributing to a thriving, unrestricted creative community.