Talk us through an average day in your role?
As a senior colourist, most of my time is spent in the grade suite working with a combination of directors, cinematographers and agency creatives. While I work on exciting commercial projects, I rarely work on the same advert for more than one or two days. As such, when I’m not with clients, I split my time between preparing material for marketing, troubleshooting technical issues, networking with old and prospective clients and mentoring junior members of the team.
How did you get started in the media industry?
My journey into my role today was a slow and steady evolution. I started out wanting to be a director, but I was drawn towards post production and image manipulation as I found the process more rewarding. A strong technical background, along with an interest in cinematography and colour theory, drew me towards colour grading as an art form. I started as a runner, and in the following years I worked every hour I could to learn my craft from very established artists in the industry. That allowed me to slowly build up my own body of work, honing my skills as an artist. This mindset has never left me, and I am always looking to refine and innovate my techniques and process.
What training did you have before entering the industry?
None specifically. However, I have always had a broad creative background and interest in visual storytelling. A keen interest in all visual media gives me a wealth of influences to call on when I’m working in the grade suite. The software we use is only a small part of being a colourist, it is our influences and experiences that shape us as artists.
Why do you enjoy working in the industry?
It doesn’t get acknowledged enough, but in this industry we are surrounded by people with shared passions and interests, which I love. Every day is a big day, presenting new creative challenges, and I buzz off that. In the commercial world we turn over projects quite quickly, so there is always something new and exciting to work on, and talented people to collaborate with.
What piece of advice would you offer someone looking to explore a role similar to yours?
Be patient and work hard. It’s a long road, and there is no simple trick to climbing the ladder quickly.
