Jon Hughes

I'm a senior broadcast camera journalist and director of photography with nearly 30 years' experience in international news, conflict zones, and investigative journalism. I've spent the majority of my career working for BBC News, BBC Newsgathering, and BBC Newsnight, covering major global events including the Ukraine war, Israel-Gaza conflict, Libya's Arab Spring, Haiti earthquake, Japan's tsunami and Fukushima crisis, and numerous other breaking news stories across more than 50 countries.

Since 2014, I've worked as a freelance camera operator and DOP for BBC News, Newsnight, Al Jazeera English, ITN Productions, and various independent production companies and NGOs. I specialise in hostile environment journalism, shoot/edit capability, and high-end lighting for documentaries and investigations. I'm also a CAA-certified drone operator.

Prior to the BBC, I worked in international news production roles with APTN and NBC News in Mexico City and London, gaining experience as a producer, camera operator, and editor. I hold Hostile Environment Training certification and am trained in BBC editorial standards and safety protocols. I'm fluent in Spanish and regularly deploy internationally for breaking news and long-form documentary projects.

Postgraduate Diploma in Broadcast Journalism – City University London

BA in Philosophy – University College London

I also hold professional certifications including BBC Hostile Environment Training (valid until December 2028), BBC Editorial Policy training, and CAA GVC certification as a UAV/drone operator.