Bio

Haley Watson is a Los Angeles-based director and cinematographer.

Haley’s recent work includes directing and producing “Motorcycle Mary,” an original short documentary that premiered at Tribeca Film Festival 2024. The film was acquired by ESPN Film’s 30 for 30 series. Her producing partner is the 2-time Academy Award-winning production company, Breakwater Studios and executive produced by Formula One champion - Lewis Hamilton. Haley’s keen eye for storytelling has also been proven groundbreaking research. Haley found and pitched the original story for "The Queen of Basketball," which became the 2021 Academy Award winner for Best Short Documentary Subject.

Haley began her career by working through the ranks of the camera department. While serving as a first assistant camera, she had the opportunity to work with many notable directors, such as Lynn Shelton and David Lynch. Her technical skills earned her placement in the AFI Cinematography Intensive for Women in 2019, as well as ASC’s Vision Mentorship Program in 2020 (Paired with Marshall Adams from "Better Call Saul" as her mentor).

Amid the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, Haley joined Breakwater Studios and played a pivotal role in developing an innovative remote shooting method. She applied this method as the Director of Photography for "The Beauty President," which premiered at SXSW. Additionally, she spearheaded the establishment of Mariposa Camera, a boutique camera house in Los Angeles, demonstrating her entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to the industry.

Haley's artistic vision and technical expertise converge seamlessly in her work, characterized by compelling storytelling and innovative filmmaking techniques.

Today, Haley actively directs and shoots original narrative, documentary, and commercial projects. Her recent commercial directing endeavors have garnered notable recognition, including a Gold Telly and Silver Addy for “Clearing the Path,” a Bungie Foundation x Team Rubicon brand film, with narration from Nathan Fillion. Her DP work with Nike notably showcased the launch of Sabrina Ionescu’s signature shoe, alongside prominent athletes like Naomi Osaka, Megan Rapinoe, and Serena Williams. This work has been displayed in Nike retail spaces across the USA.

Haley has embarked on collaborative projects with other industry giants such as Microsoft, Puma, Amazon and Subaru.