About Me – Irish Director of Photography & Cinematographer in Belfast

A person setting up a camera on a tripod inside a dimly lit cafe or restaurant, with equipment and bags on the table near large windows.

Award-Winning DOP with a Passion for Visual Storytelling

I’m Matty Killen — an award-winning Director of Photography, filmmaker, and editor based in Belfast, Northern Ireland.

With over 100 projects under my belt, my focus is always the same: crafting powerful, visually-driven stories that connect emotionally with audiences. Whether it’s a short film, a music video, or a brand campaign, I approach every shoot with intention, precision, and heart.

Cinematography That Serves the Story

My background spans drama, branded content, corporate video, and live music — but my core passion is narrative. I film for feeling, not just the frame. Every shot is a tool to deepen character, tone, and emotion. Whether I’m operating handheld for raw energy or composing something stylised and still, I make visual choices that elevate the story.

A person underwater with water droplets around, raising one hand.
Close-up of a woman lying on a bed with her arms above her head, looking upward with a somber expression, illuminated by warm lighting.
Man wearing a beige hoodie with the hood up, looking down, outdoors with blurred trees and a stone wall in the background.

Shorts & Music Videos

Goodnight Irene (Short Film) | Director of Photography

Winner: Best Comedy (x2)

Vanishing Grace (Short Film) | Director of Photography / Director

Winner: 5 awards including Best Short Film & Best Director & Screenplay

Railroad King – "Junk Drawer" (Music Video) | Director of Photography / Director

Winner: Best Music Video – Northern Ireland Music Awards

There’ll Be No Divorce (Short Film) | Director of Photography

Winner: 4 awards including Best Cinematography

Father & Son (Short Film) | Director of Photography

Official Selection: 7+ Festivals

We’ll Meet Again (Short Film) | Director of Photography / Director

Official Selection: 4+ Festivals

Drama & Feature Film

A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms (HBO) | DIT

Wildfire (Feature Film) | Camera Trainee – Dir: Cathy Brady

Funboys (BBC) | DIT

Purebred (NI Screen) | DIT

Systems: RED Komodo, ARRI Alexa, Sony FX Series, Blackmagic.

Formats: 16mm and 35mm film workflows.

Festival-Recognised Work Across Genres

My cinematography has been recognised internationally, screening at festivals and earning multiple awards: