Phil Harrison

Halifax-based documentary cinematographer with extensive experience across feature-length documentaries, television series, and long-form factual storytelling.

I’m an award-winning Director of Photography known for strong visual storytelling, adaptability in complex real-world environments, and a collaborative, director-first approach. My work spans broadcast, streaming, and independent productions, with a focus on character-driven narratives, social impact stories, and naturalistic visuals.

Feature Documentary Credits (Selected):
Director of Photography on Help Is on the Way (feature-length documentary), Global Warning (Amazon Prime, Super Channel — Rosie Award for Best Cinematography), Last of the Fur Traders (AMI, Telus — Rosie Award Winner), The Salvation of Todd Bentley (Super Channel), and Dark Cloud (Telus Optik). Camera Operator on No Roads In (CBC — multiple international awards) and Goalie: Life and Death in the Crease (Super Channel).

Television & Series Work:
Director of Photography on Bush Wreck Rescue (Crave, CTV), Rodeo Nation (APTN, Lumi — Rosie Award Winner), This Is Your Story (YesTV), CTV’s W5, Cultureville, Culture Secrets, and Outlaws and Superheroes: 100 Years of Alberta Film (CBC). Camera Operator on Rust Valley Restorers, Backroad Truckers, Ancient Aliens, Best in Chow, Dangerous Breed, and numerous factual and reality series for History, Peacock, Reelz, Netflix, Discovery+, and Amazon Prime.

Documentary Shorts & Festival Work:

Director of Photography on projects premiering at Hot Docs, TIFF, and international festivals, including Cafe Nation, Queer Hutterite (Canadian Screen Award nominee), Unnatural Enemies, Caregivers in the Wild (Rosie Award Winner), Queen of the Oil Patch, Red Earth Uncovered, and Why I Love (Rosie Award Winner).

Commercial & Branded Content:

Director of Photography on Light the Way Home (Calgary Drop-In Centre), and 2nd Camera on national campaigns for WestJet and Travel Alberta.
Currently based in Atlantic Canada and working nationally on documentary, factual, and premium unscripted productions.