National Paddling Film Festival 2026

David Gladstone is an award-winning cinematographer and producer with more than three decades of experience documenting the defining stories of our time around the world. A two-time Peabody Award winner, his work spans every major visual format—from 16mm film to 8K digital cinema—and ranges from large-scale network productions to deeply immersive, independent storytelling. Known for his calm leadership in high-risk environments and his collaborative approach, Gladstone has spent his career earning trust, capturing truth, and mentoring the next generation of visual journalists.

Gladstone recently retired from NBC News, where he reported extensively from Ukraine, Israel, and on social upheaval in America. His work includes international conflict coverage, long-form documentaries, and embedded assignments with U.S. military units in Iraq and Afghanistan, as well as projects for HBO, PBS Frontline, Netflix, and CBS News. His work has been recognized with Peabody, Emmy, DuPont, and Gracie honors—reflecting a lifelong commitment to powerful visual storytelling and journalistic integrity.  This approach to filmmaking is rooted in trust, patience, and collaboration, often in environments where access is earned and the stakes are high. Railroaded, premiering at the NPFF, explores post-disaster rebuilding priorities and whether business is the only interest that matters.