For Gordon Verheul, Director of Photography, a career in film seemed destiny. Born and raised in Vancouver, his love of film and images began at the age of 12 when he started shooting photographs and had a full working darkroom in his home. By age 19, he knew that he wanted to be a cinematographer, so he entered Simon Fraser University’s Film Program, where he completed a 4 year degree program. During this time he shot short films, documentaries, and rock videos. Gordon had plans to attend UCLA for his Masters in Film, but life took a different turn.
Weeks after graduating in 1986, he was hired as a Lamp Operator on a union MOW. The DOP was none other than Academy Award winning Phil Lathrop ASC. That MOW won an Emmy for Best Cinematography. Right after, Gordon worked on a Paramount feature, shot by Academy Award winner Ralf Boda ASC. Many talented DOPs followed, and as Gordon realized, “A different kind of Masters had already begun—and I was getting paid.”
Gordon quickly moved up to Best Boy, and then on to a busy career as a Gaffer. The move to the DOP chair happened in 1997, at the same time Gordon had become a Steadicam Operator and bought his first rig. He was both DOP and Operator on many of his first shows.
Since that time, Gordon has worked in features, miniseries, MOWs, and television, shooting over 280 episodes. He has worked nonstop as a DOP for the last 25 years on projects that have taken him to Berlin, LA, and around British Columbia. He is known for his no-nonsense style and his ability to effectively and creatively collaborate with Directors on some of the toughest shoots. Gordon is able to think on his feet and “drive the bus” on the studio floor, so that the Director is able to get every shot that is needed to support their vision. His expertise in so many aspects of filmmaking brings forward a unique creativity and visual conceptuality that always feels fresh and new. Gordon has full membership in the Canadian Society of Cinematographers, IATSE 669, 891, and the Director’s Guild of Canada.
When not working long days and nights on set, Gordon’s time is filled in pursuit of his passion for world travel. Most notably the remote reaches of Iceland, Scotland and Japan, where hiking and exploring fill his days. He’s often found on the slopes of Whistler snowboarding as well. Gordon is also a passionate lover of great foods and wines and is an avid collector of rare Scotches.