
Camera Operator Brett Hurd SOC: American Primeval, The Handmaid's Tale and the craft of leading from behind the lens
From Cinemapodgrapher by Lucas Tomoana SOC, Hannah Ariotti & Josh Calder
November 18, 2025 · 1h 45m · Episode 149
About this episode
Brett Hurd SOC discusses his journey as a camera operator and the nuances of his craft.
International camera operator Brett Hurd SOC joins us after a run on shows like The Handmaid's Tale, Mrs America, The Terminal List and American Primeval. We talk about the path that took him from early sports broadcasting and documentary work to operating on major dramas around the world. Brett shares how still photography shapes his eye, why mobility and body awareness matter for handheld, and how growing up skating and playing sport feeds directly into his work today. He opens up about the pressure of big opportunities, the value of being uncomfortable, and the moments that pushed his craft to the next level. We also explore leadership on set, communication with cast, and building an environment where everyone feels safe to do their best work. A grounded chat with a thoughtful operator who brings both skill and heart to every project. This episode is proudly brought to you by our technology partners Sony Hoseted and edited by Lucas Tomoana SOC Produced by Deb Van Dieren
People in this episode
Hosts: Lucas Tomoana SOC, Hannah Ariotti, Josh Calder
Guest: Brett Hurd SOC
Topics covered
- camera operation
- film industry
- leadership on set
- handheld cinematography
- sports influence
- photography
Keywords
- camera operator
- cinematography
- film
- interview
- leadership
- handheld
- sports
- photography
Sponsors
Sony
Mentioned in this episode
Books & works: The Handmaid's Tale, Mrs America, The Terminal List, American Primeval
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