Charlie Key

Charlie Key is a director of photography and self-shooting director working across commercial, documentary, and narrative film. Intrigued by long-distance journeys and the resilience of the human mind, he most enjoys working in demanding environments – from Nordic ski expeditions within the Arctic Circle to high-altitude treks and remote underwater shoots. His degree in marine biology has deepened his understanding of the natural world and continues to inspire the subjects he pursues. Commercially, he has worked as a DOP for Dior, Nike, Speedo, EasyJet, Next, Ffern, Spy Optics, Ted Baker, Environment Agency, Textile Exchange, and more. His first narrative short as a DOP, Circle Hook, was recognised at the Cornwall Film Festival. Filmmaking, for him, is a privilege and a craft he continues to enjoy deeply.

Select Press:
Best of the West - Runner Up, Cornwall Film Festival: ‘Circle Hook’, 2025
Best Environmental Film, Banff Film Festival: ‘The Eagle With The Sunlit Eye’, 2023 (Charlie was camera operator and spent 10 days in a hide, in Scotland, filming white tailed eagles)
People’s Choice Award, Kendal Mountain Festival: ‘The Eagle With The Sunlit Eye’, 2023
Official Selection, London Surf Film Festival: ‘It's Still Sunny in Winter’, 2023