You’ve probably seen him around. If you live in South Canterbury, or if you’ve ever scrolled through those high-resolution galleries of the Timaru Soap Box Derby, you’ve definitely seen his work. Brian High isn't just another guy with a camera. He’s basically an institution in the Timaru creative scene.
Honestly, in an era where everyone with an iPhone 16 thinks they're a cinematographer, there’s something reassuring about a professional who has been doing this since before the internet was a household thing. Brian High has over 30 years in the industry. Think about that for a second. That's three decades of changing technology, from heavy shoulder-mounted tape cameras to the sleek, 4K digital rigs he uses today at his Broadway Avenue studio.
What Brian High Actually Does (It’s More Than Just Video)
Most people searching for a brian high timaru videographer are looking for someone to capture a specific event, but his scope is actually way wider. He runs Brian High Productions out of Highfield. He’s a bit of a hybrid—part old-school photojournalist, part modern digital storyteller.
He doesn’t just hit record. He does the whole lot:
- Full-scale video production and editing.
- Commercial photography for local businesses.
- Freelance media work for national broadcasters.
- Even drone work and high-end landscape captures.
One thing that kinda surprises people is his reach. You’d think a guy based in a "rural" town like Timaru would stay local. Nope. Brian has done commissions in London, Paris, Rome, and New York. He’s had his work exhibited in Paris, for heaven's sake. But he always comes back to the South Island. There’s a specific light in the Mackenzie Country and the Southern Alps that he seems obsessed with capturing.
The Storyteller Factor
Late in 2025, Brian did something that most videographers wouldn't dream of. He released a children's book. It’s called Mr Wind and the Postmen.
Now, why does a videographer write a book about old wooden fence posts at Jack’s Point? Because he sees stories where other people just see scenery. He took the resilience of those old posts—standing against the salt and the gales—and turned it into a metaphor for kids to deal with bullying. That’s the "High" style in a nutshell. Whether he’s filming a corporate promo or a local derby, he’s looking for the "character" in the shot.
Why Experience Matters in South Canterbury
If you’re hiring a videographer in Timaru, you have to deal with the elements. The wind can be brutal. The light changes in a heartbeat.
Working with a local veteran means they know the spots. They know which way the sun hits the Caroline Bay sand at 4:00 PM in November. Brian’s technical knowledge is deep. He’s not guessing. He’s using high-end edit systems and professional-grade sensors to make sure the final product doesn't look like a shaky home movie.
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He’s also incredibly patient. You have to be, if you’ve spent 30 years waiting for the perfect shot of the Southern Alps. People often mention his professionalism—it’s that "no-fuss" Kiwi attitude where the work gets done, the equipment is top-tier, and the client actually gets what they paid for.
The Reality of Commercial Video in 2026
Business is different now. A "nice video" isn't enough anymore. Local Timaru businesses need content that actually works on social media and looks good on a 4K monitor. Brian handles everything from distribution-ready media for agencies to corporate profiles that help local firms look like global players.
He’s a freelancer at heart. He works with production companies, advertising agencies, and directly with local business owners. He’s also the guy you call if you need rights to specific South Island imagery—he has an extensive library of shots that he’s collected over the years.
How to Get in Touch
If you're looking to book him, he’s pretty easy to find. His studio is at 51 Broadway Ave, Highfield.
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- Phone: 03 686 0581
- Mobile: 027 432 2618
He’s usually out on location, so a call or email via his website (brianhigh.co.nz) is the best bet.
Actionable Steps for Your Next Project
If you are considering hiring a videographer for a South Canterbury project, don't just look at the price tag. Look at the portfolio.
- Check the Gear: Ask if they are filming in 4K and what their editing workflow looks like. Brian uses professional-grade edit systems, which makes a massive difference in the final color grading.
- Ask About Licensing: If you need music or specific b-roll of the region, ensure your videographer has the rights to provide it.
- Think Long-Term: A good video should last years, not weeks. Investing in a veteran like Brian means the production quality won't look "dated" six months from now.
- Local Knowledge: If your shoot is outdoors, ask about "Plan B" for weather. Someone who has lived in Timaru for decades will already have three backup locations in mind.
Whether you need a full commercial or just some high-end stills for a website, checking out Brian High's work is a solid starting point for anyone in the South Island.