MJ is of Scottish and Maori lineage, which means he is the direct descendant of men who wore skirts and sported funny accents. More importantly, it means he comes from a long line of visual and oral storytellers. This heritage has served him well in his chosen career as a director/cinematographer.

MJ has lived in four countries and weaves the influences of each into his work. Whether capturing the essence of an Alsakan dive bar or Australia's egalitarian culture, he brings skill, intelligence and insight to all of his projects.