Ollie Downey BSC is a British cinematographer and director of photography whose work spans television drama, feature films and commercials. He is a full member of the British Society of Cinematographers and has worked on productions for major British and international broadcasters and streaming platforms.
Downey developed an early interest in visual art, painting and photography. He initially considered studying fine art before undertaking a film and television course. After completing his studies, he entered the film industry as a runner on a low-budget feature film and subsequently progressed through the camera department, working as a camera trainee, second assistant camera and focus puller. Alongside these roles, he filmed short films and promotional projects, developing his experience as a cinematographer. After approximately ten years combining camera-department work with independent shooting projects, he began working predominantly as a director of photography.
His early screen credits include the television series Fresh Meat and the feature film Inbred, both released in 2011. He went on to work on productions including Banana, The A Word, Harlots, Philip K. Dick’s Electric Dreams and Britannia. His subsequent television credits include the second season of Hanna, the series The Power and Apple TV+’s science-fiction drama Silo.
In 2024, Downey worked on Netflix’s One Day, collaborating with director Luke Snellin on the final four episodes of the series. His feature-film credits include The Fires (Eldarnir), an Icelandic drama directed by Ugla Hauksdóttir, which involved filming in Iceland’s volcanic landscapes and challenging weather conditions.
Alongside his film and television work, Downey has photographed commercials for brands and organisations including Honda, Tesco, Babybel, the NHS and BT Sport. His experience encompasses both film and digital cinematography across a range of production types and locations.
Downey received a British Society of Cinematographers Award for his work on the BBC drama Reunion at the 2026 BSC Awards. He was also nominated for an Icelandic Academy Award for his cinematography on The Fires. His career reflects a progression from entry-level camera-department roles to cinematography across television drama, feature films and commercial productions.