Ken Dawson
- tcollins66
- Mar 31
- 3 min read
Updated: Apr 22
Shining Behind the Lens: The Legacy of Jamaica's Visionary Videographer
In a career spanning over four decades, Ken Dawson left an indelible mark on Jamaica's media landscape, shaping the country's visual narrative and inspiring generations of videographers, photographers, and media professionals. As a pioneering figure in the field, Ken's dedication, creativity, and technical expertise earned him a reputation as a master videographer, with his work continuing to captivate audiences and influence the industry.
Early Beginnings: A Life of Photography and Passion
Born on January 13, 1938, in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, Ken Dawson would go on to forge an extraordinary career that defied geographical and cultural boundaries. Ken's father, Eric, brought his young family to Kingston, Jamaica, where Ken would grow up surrounded by the city's vibrant energy and cultural richness. At school, Ken's fascination with photography began to take shape. He honed his darkroom skills in his father's photo studio, learning pioneering techniques like colour printing for still images – a skill that would become a hallmark of his videography work. Ken's talent did not go unnoticed, and his father's role as head of the Photography Unit at The Gleaner newspaper provided invaluable experience and opportunities for growth.
Journey to the Camera
Ken's transition from still photography to videography was a natural progression. In 1963, he joined the Jamaica Broadcasting Corporation (JBC) as a photojournalist, where he quickly discovered a new passion for capturing moving images. As he progressed to the Film Unit, Ken became chief cameraman and go-to professional for visual and moving images.
The JBC's commitment to Ken's development was evident in the training and courses they provided, allowing him to refine his skills in cinematography, lighting, and sound. This expertise was instrumental in shaping the early days of JBC-TV and creating a repertoire of local television productions that showcased Ken's versatility.
Groundbreaking Productions and Iconic Moments
Ken's work at the JBC was marked by numerous groundbreaking productions, including recordings of Oscar Wilde's poetic drama "Salome," performances by Jamaica's National Dance Theatre Company (NDTC), and episodes of the Music and Youth TV programme series, under the guidance of acclaimed TV producer Wycliffe Bennett.
The Videography Prize: A Tribute to Ken Dawson's Legacy
The Press Association of Jamaica (PAJ) recognised Ken Dawson's invaluable contribution to the field by establishing the Videography Prize in his honour. This esteemed award serves as a testament to Ken's mastery of the craft and his influence on generations of videographers. Throughout his career, Ken remained an approachable and accessible professional, sharing his expertise and assisting peers in need. His humility and willingness to collaborate earned him respect and admiration from his peers, cementing his status as an icon in the field.
A Legacy that Shines On
Ken Dawson's impact extends beyond his remarkable career. He has inspired a new wave of videographers, photographers, and media professionals in Jamaica, demonstrating that creativity, dedication, and innovation can overcome any obstacle. As the country continues to evolve and grow, Ken's legacy serves as a reminder of the importance of storytelling, visual arts, and the role of media in shaping our understanding of ourselves and the world around us.
As we mourn the passing of this media legend, we remember Ken Dawson's unwavering passion, his boundless creative energy, and the countless contributions he made to Jamaica's cultural narrative. His work will continue to captivate audiences, inspire new generations of media professionals, and serve as a shining example of the power of vision, dedication, and artistic expression.
Ken Dawson's Legacy Lives On: A Timeline of His Achievements
1938: Born on January 13 in Port-au-Prince, Haiti
1943: Returns to Jamaica with his family at the age of six
1956: Graduated from Kingston College
1963: Joins the Jamaica Broadcasting Corporation (JBC) as a photojournalist
1970s: Develops skills in cinematography, lighting, and sound through JBC training courses
1976: Conducts and records the TV interview with Bob Marley after the attempted assassination
1970s - 80s: Covers major news and public affairs assignments, including campaign coverage
1990s: Establishes his own freelance videography business
Ken's remarkable journey is a testament to the power of creativity, perseverance, and dedication. As his legacy continues to shine behind the lens, we honour his memory and celebrate the impact he has had on the media landscape in Jamaica and beyond.
