JESS JAMES HARRIS
Jess James Harris is a Director of Photography and filmmaker whose character and collaborative working style make anything possible in an industry built on imagination. He considers himself fortunate to be living his passion and loves to share it with like-minded individuals. Jess believes in the power of strong collaborations and telling compelling narratives through powerful imagery. If he isn’t answering his phone, he’s likely out surfing, seizing every opportunity to get stronger and training for longer days on set.
Jess began skateboarding in 1988 when his parents gifted him a skateboard after moving from Jefferies Bay to the world’s largest landlocked city. After becoming an active member of the skate community as a filmmaker. In 2006, Familia Skateboards released South Africa’s first-ever independent full-length skate film, which gained cult status. As the film’s biggest contributor, Jess proudly says, “I made that thing.”
Still skateboarding thirty-three years later and enjoying it more than ever, Jess is currently working on two independent projects that have sparked excitement in the industry. With 20 years of experience operating on a skateboard, he offers directors and productions the unique ability to shoot meticulously lit sets while roving on his board.