Jason Heke is a camera operator who has loved movies ever since he was a kid. He has great memories of watching the classics on late-night TV and taking the bus downtown to one of the many theatres that existed then to see the latest big-screen movies. When he was a teenager, he began experimenting with VHS video cameras and making little comedies with his friends. He was also a big fan of music videos, which were new and often cutting-edge visually, and they made him want to be involved in the industry.
He came across newspaper articles about Winnipeg filmmakers and films coming to Winnipeg to be made. Film Training Manitoba and the Winnipeg Film Group were pivotal to him gaining basic skills and meeting the right people to make the beginnings of his career possible.
When and how did you start in the media production industry?
At the end of the 1990’s I started venturing into the independent film world, wanting to make music videos and films of my own. I had an interest in learning some basics and found a group of like-minded people who were doing stuff with the Winnipeg Film Group. We all spent our weekends working on each other’s short films, etc. In 2000, I started working with the unionized part of the Manitoba-made movies and TV industry. My first show was called Society’s Child.
What area of the film industry do you work in?
I am a camera operator, and I have worked in the camera department for more than 25 years.
What has been a substantial change in the industry since you started?
The transition from film to video, as well as the overall technology advances in camera systems and lighting equipment. Also, the advent of streaming services has had a significant impact on what is made and how it’s done.
If you could give yourself advice today to yourself in the past, what would it be?
Start sooner.
Why is learning and training important?
The medium and methods of movie-making are constantly evolving. Safety standards also need to grow with the industry and be adopted as required.
Is there something about you or an interesting experience that you’d like to share with your colleagues?
A career working in the film business brings together people who will spend a lot of time with each other. Colleagues can become like friends and family.
Is there someone within the film industry you would like to work with and why?
I have been fortunate to have opportunities to meet and work with some of the actors, directors, and cinematographers of many of my favourite films. There is a very long list of filmmakers whom I admire and would love to work with in the future.
Where do you see yourself in ten years from now?
Winnipeg is my home and always will be. I’ve had amazing travels working in film and always enjoy visiting new and familiar cities. But ultimately, I’m proud to be a part of the Manitoba film community, and I hope to always be.
FTM is a non-for-profit charity and member of the Province of Manitoba’s Sector Council program funded through the Economic Development, Investment, Trade and Natural Resources. FTM builds a highly skilled and adaptable film industry workforce to support the activities of Manitoba production companies. FTM collaborates and partners with members of the film industry to identify training needs to support workforce development.