When a filmmaker pops in for coffee…

and asks if they can do some filming for a documentary, what did we say?

Jake from Clixo Media stopped by the Bistro asking if he could shoot some footage for a documentary with his client, and before we knew it, he was capturing some fantastic B-roll. Jake created a video that was perfect for us to use on our newly launched website, we thought we would catch up with him and find out what inspires him, and why he thought Llanelly House would be a great location to film.

Can you tell us a little about yourself and how you became a videographer?

I’m a videographer and filmmaker with a real passion for storytelling. I originally got into videography through a love of creativity and wanting to capture things from a different perspective. Over time, that developed into a business, but more recently I’ve found myself drawn towards documentary filmmaking. For me, it’s become less about simply creating videos and more about telling stories that people can connect with. 

What inspires your creative approach when capturing historic places like Llanelly House?

I think it’s about looking beyond what’s immediately in front of you. Every historic building has a story, and I love trying to capture the little details that people might otherwise overlook. It’s about combining the architecture, atmosphere and surroundings to give people a sense of what it might have been like to experience that place hundreds of years ago.  

What do you look for when filming a location for the first time?

I like to take a step back and take everything in before I even think about picking up the camera. I look at the lighting, the surroundings, the small details and anything that makes the location unique. I think the best stories often come from things you wouldn’t necessarily notice at first glance.  

What has been your favourite moment filming at Llanelly House?

For me, it’s been the opportunity to explore the building and appreciate the amount of history contained within its walls. There’s something quite special about being able to capture a place that has stood for generations and give people a fresh perspective on it. It’s a reminder that sometimes the location itself has already done most of the storytelling.  

Can you share a top tip for aspiring filmmakers?

Don’t get too caught up in having the most expensive equipment. Learn how to tell a story, understand light and composition, and really think about why you’re capturing something. You can have the best camera in the world, but if there’s no story behind the footage, it doesn’t mean much. Get out there, make mistakes and keep creating.

We would like to say Diolch yn fawr to Jake at Clixo Media for capturing Llanelly House so beautifully. Your creativity, attention to detail, and ability to tell a story through film have helped showcase not only the stunning architecture of the House but also the warmth, history, and community spirit that make it such a special place. We are incredibly grateful for your work on the project, professionalism, and passion, and we pleased to be sharing your fantastic work with our website visitors!