One of the world's leading cinematographers, Philippe has worked with directors such as John Boorman, Robert Redford, Neil Jordan, Stephen Frears, Tim Burton, and Guy Ritchie, in a wide variety of photographic styles and genres, from intimate dramas to fantasy to blockbusters. He is both an Oscar and a Bafta winner.

His films include: Hope and Glory, Interview With The Vampire, Dangerous Liaisons, Planet of the Apes, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, Sherlock Holmes, A River Runs Through It, and more recently the two Fantastic Beasts films.

As a film director, Philippe made the feature film The Serpent's Kiss in 1997.