Pete's Life-Changing Injury - RNIB — Adam Hudson | Director of Photography

Pete’s Life-Changing Injury

Royal National Institute for Blind People - Commercial

THE BRIEF

Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB) is a UK charity dedicated to supporting people who are blind or partially sighted, while also raising wider awareness of the realities of living with visual impairment. The brief for this film focused on sharing an authentic personal story that could help audiences better understand those lived experiences.

As with many charity-led narratives, the production required a careful tonal balance. The film needed to acknowledge the genuine challenges faced by those with sight loss, while also highlighting the support, community and guidance available through RNIB. Working with contributors whose experiences are deeply personal requires sensitivity on set, and the approach to filming prioritised patience, respect and collaboration to ensure the environment felt comfortable and supportive.

The story centres on Pete, who had previously worked as a gardener and caretaker on a family estate. Following a serious accident, he lost all sight in his right eye, a life-changing event that left him feeling isolated and uncertain about the future. Through RNIB, Pete was able to access guidance and support that helped him navigate this new chapter of his life, forming the emotional core of the film.

THE VISUALS

The visual direction for this film was shaped primarily by Pete’s emotional journey — a narrative that weaves together tragedy and optimism. I wanted the cinematography to evolve in step with those tonal shifts, ensuring the imagery supported the story’s emotional cadence rather than simply illustrating it.

I developed a colour palette rooted in warmth, with a subtle filmic vibrancy that allowed emotion to surface through tone rather than overt stylisation. Shadows were intentionally kept lifted to preserve detail and approachability, while natural hues were allowed to lead the frame. This was particularly effective in the exterior sequences, where I relied on the inherent colour and texture of the environment to carry the visual weight. By resisting the urge to over-light, the film retained an honesty and lived-in quality that felt true to Pete’s experience.

Lens choice played a key role in reinforcing that authenticity. I selected Lomo Super Speed lenses for their organic texture and nuanced skin tone reproduction. They offer a softness and depth that feels inherently cinematic, while maintaining clarity without the distraction of excessive stylised elements. The result was an image that felt intimate and grounded, yet visually elevated.