OFF THE BEATEN PATH
My name is Olaf Hamelink. I was born in the Netherlands and have been traveling the world for most of my adult life. I lived in Africa, Asia, Europe and North-America. Growing up in a very industrialized part of the Netherlands, I consider myself fortunate to have had these experiences that continue to shape my perspective as a human and filmmaker. At heart, I’m an adventurer—if you fly me there, I'll film it.
I’ve worked as a cinematographer for various documentaries, corporate work and somewhere along the way studied documentary filmmaking at the San Francisco School of Digital Filmmaking. I captured some truly unique places and events. I filmed a open-heart surgery on a 14 month old girl in Port-au-Prince, a frozen lake at 4,919-meters in Nepal, flown my drone over the largest refugee camp in Europe, and captured ritual burnings in Varanasi.
Off the beaten path is where I thrive.
CAMPFIRE TALES
Film has the unique power to connect people across the world. It’s a visual language that transcends boundaries, allowing us to amplify stories that otherwise might go unheard. Whether it's putting a face to abstract issues or humanizing global challenges, film can make these large, complex problems accessible to everyone.
Storytelling—whether around a campfire, through music, or on screen—has always played a big part in my life. It gives us insight into what it means to be human and helps us connect with each other. I started out idealistic, always looking for the most unique story to tell. Today, I realize every story is worth telling.
RICKSHAWS AND BOATS
I’ve worked on a wide range of projects, from documentaries and musicvideos to corporate films. I’ve directed, shot, flown drones, edited and shot on more boats, trains, cars, motorbikes and rickshaws I can remember. Whether it's running-and-gunning as a one-man-band or collaborating with a larger crew, I’m always open to trying new techniques to fit the narrative.
At the end of the day, I’m driven by storytelling in all its forms. I want to make films that engage and inspire, but also deliver for clients. So if you're looking for a filmmaker who’s as adaptable as he is passionate, I’d love to collaborate on your next project.