A globe-trotting Norfolk cameraman has been awarded an Emmy for his part in shooting a landmark wildlife series.

Jonathan Jones travelled to America and Costa Rica to capture stunning footage of Monarch Butterflies and jungle ants for the National Geographic Channel's Great Migrations.

The prestigious honour – the television equivalent of the Oscars – comes as the 30-year-old launches a new website for his own digital production company, Ember Films, based at Hingham.

Jonathan, who lives in Carbrooke, near Watton, said he hopes to instigate a forum for the county's media agencies and workers in a collective bid to highlight talent in Norfolk.

He and his team, which include directors, editors, graphics, sound and lighting experts, are also keen to provide training and advice to young people looking to follow in their footsteps.

Within their possession are some of the world's most technologically advanced cameras, including specialists in slow motion and 3D capture, which they believe no-one else in the region currently has.

He said: 'I remember how hard it was to get into this business. It's very difficult and with the amount of university courses churning out media graduates there are not enough jobs to fill the volume. We want to hear from anyone looking to do this kind of thing.'

Jonathan, who is originally from North Elmham and attended Northgate High School in Dereham, studied editing and photography at Exeter University. Following graduation, he moved to Bristol due to its reputation as a hub for natural history film-making.

After persistently approaching contacts within the industry, he began to forge a career as a wildlife cameraman and believes he is one of the youngest people in world to be successfully employed in the field.

His filming has taken him around the world and has branched out into other work, such as shooting documentaries, music videos and high-end television commercials.

He moved back to Norfolk with his wife Emma, 31, in order to be closer to their two families.

Wildlife filming can lead to weeks working away from home, long hours in extreme locations and having the odd creepy-crawly scuttle through your clothing – Jonathan was stung 21 times by bees during one shoot.

But he added the elation of capturing the perfect shot makes the job worthwhile.

'It's a vocation, it is not a job. The whole team is completely passionate about what we do. It's not a matter of working nine to five, we will keep going until it's right. But it's brilliant – it's an adventure,' he said.

For more information, visit www.emberfilms.co.uk