Videographer

With the Simonsberg, Du Toitskloof and Franschhoek mountains as backdrop, Babylonstoren's garden is majestic. Dating back to 1692, the fortunes of this historic fruit and wine farm took a turn ten years ago when it fell under the gaze of former magazine editor Karen Roos. Her passion for historic Cape Dutch style led to an authentic yet contemporary restoration that projects the farm into the future. In 1692, Babylonstoren farm was granted to burgher Pieter van der Byl by the then Governor of the Cape, Simon van der Stel. Prior to that, the Drakenstein Valley had been inhabited by the nomadic Khoisan communities for tens of centuries. And so it was Pieter van der Byl who planted the first vineyards on the farm and who altered the water courses to provide irrigation. Some of the farm's earliest structures from that time remain on the farm today, with Babylonstoren's Cape Dutch werf (farmyard) typical of the architectural style popular in the 17th and 18th centuries. As such it is considered to be one of the best preserved farmyards in the Cape today. The original buildings comprise a manor house that dates back to 1777, while the Koornhuis (for storing wheat), the old cellar, ornate fowl house, dovecote, the leaning bell tower and the historic gates, all date back closer to the 1750s. A disused cow shed was transformed into the current-day Babel restaurant. When new accommodation was added to create the Farm Hotel, every care was taken to ensure that the integrity of the original architecture and its sympathetic relationship with the landscape and climate, were reflected. And so the signature look at Babylonstoren remains whitewashed walls of thick stone or primitive brick, with ornate gables and thatched roofs but with contemporary glass boxes (to house a kitchen and dining area) seamlessly added onto the Cape Dutch cottages. The result is a modern yet authentic sensibility, that takes the farm firmly into the future. Similarly, the garden at Babylonstoren looked to the past for inspiration, taking its cue from the Company's Garden of Cape Town, which supplied passing ships to the Cape with food in the 1600s. All of the more than 300 varieties of plants in the garden are edible or have medicinal value, with everything from blood oranges to asparagus, mushrooms and persimmons supplying the farm's two restaurants: Babel and the Greenhouse. As such the garden's ever-changing tapestry and rich bounty of produce, informs every aspect of Babylonstoren.

Requirements

A tertiary qualification in photography, cinematography or related field (diploma/degree).

3 - 5 years' relevant industry experience.

Proven experience with using editing software, e.g., Premiere, Final Cut Pro, After Effects and Audition.

Familiarity with AI-driven tools for video editing, content enhancement, or automation would be advantageous.

Strong understanding of camera operation, lighting, and audio equipment.

Creative mind and storytelling skills.

Good work ethic, a positive attitude, and collaboration skills.

Strong time management and organisational skills.

Committed to continuous improvement and skills development.

Up to date with video and social media trends and best industry practices.

Experience with live streaming would be advantageous.

Good written and verbal communication skills (Afrikaans and English).

Availability to work full time and on site (working remotely is not an option).

Willingness to work flexible hours and assist the team as needed.

Own transport.

Responsibilities

Capture high quality video content for various projects, including product and campaign videos.

Edit raw footage into polished, cohesive, and engaging videos.

Work closely with the creative team to conceptualise and develop video concepts according to project briefs.

Input appropriate motion graphics, effects, dialogues, and music to enhance videos.

Continuously discover and implement new editing and filming trends and stay updated of industry's best practices to maximise efficiency.

Direct other camera operators so that the needed footage is captured.

Operate and maintain video equipment and software.

Manage video archives and organise footage.

Ensure all video content continuously improves and aligns with brand guidelines.