Chris Howard BSC began in the camera department as a focus puller and focus operator, working on feature films including International Velvet (1978), Brass Target (1978), Breakthrough (1979), North Sea Hijack (1980), The Sea Wolves (1980) and The Monster Club (1981). He also worked as a camera operator on North Sea Hijack.
Howard moved into cinematography during the 1980s, initially working on short films and television. His early television credits included Smith & Jones and Murder Most Horrid, followed by Minder, Chef! and Hamish Macbeth.
He went on to photograph a substantial amount of British television, including Peak Practice, Soldier Soldier, Insiders, Heat of the Sun and Bugs. His work also included The 10th Kingdom, CI5: The New Professionals, How Do You Want Me? and Best Friends.
Howard became particularly associated with long-running television series. He photographed 21 episodes of Doc Martin between 2004 and 2007 and 14 episodes of New Tricks in 2007. His other credits include At Home with the Braithwaites, Mad Dogs and Beauty.