I edit both feature-length and short documentaries, as well as documentary series and trailers. My focus is on storytelling that draws the viewer in and creates an emotional connection. During the editing process, we look for the strongest narrative potential within the footage. We do this by experimenting, revisiting our choices and having many conversations about what lies at the heart of the story. But above all, by looking, listening and feeling.
As Michelangelo is said to have once remarked: “The image is already in the stone; you just have to remove what isn’t needed.” This is also how I approach documentary editing: the story is already there in the footage. Together, we discover what can be taken away and what that reveals. It is my strong belief that this method results in the most sincere immersive experience.
My interest in striking imagery, music, compelling stories and technology runs like a thread through my work. In the 1990s, I graduated in Audiovisual Media from the Utrecht School of the Arts (HKU), having first studied Industrial Design in Delft. During and after art school, I co-founded Captain Video with four friends, a multidisciplinary media production company. We were among the early pioneers of VJing, performing at countless clubs alongside artists such as Junkie XL, Leftfield and Steffi. During this inspiring period, I was already editing documentaries, driven by my love of storytelling.
I work with Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro and Avid. I also have a good working knowledge of After Effects and Photoshop. I regularly explore graphic design and visual treatments, create initial colour grades and sound mixes, and have extensive experience with the technical workflows and file exchange involved in post-production. I use AI for repetitive, time-consuming tasks, but not for developing content or creative concepts.
I am a member of the Dutch society of Cinema Editors NCE.