Renato John-Paul Straume Fogliani, creative producer and presenter, NDI TV
Talk us through an average day in your role
For a producer, there is no such thing as an average day. One day I might be editing a product launch video, the next shooting an interview on location with a customer or standing in our green screen studio presenting a segment for NDI TV. My role is as a facilitator, and I must be flexible and able to jump in and out of tasks at a moments notice. It’s probably why my hair started turning grey at 30!
How did you get started in the media industry?
In the early 2000s I knocked on doors looking for a job in Soho and became a production runner working for some of the biggest facilities at the time. It was an exciting time to be in the industry, digital production was just beginning to stretch what was possible creatively. Eventually, I got my first ‘proper’ job as an associate producer working for Cartoon Network. I quickly fell in love with the entire process of ideating, scripting, directing, filming, and editing content, from start to finish.
What training did you have before entering the industry?
I was always fascinated with how TV was made. At school I started making some short skits and films with friends for a laugh. That lead on to me applying to Ravensbourne University where I got a degree in Television Broadcasting.
Why do you enjoy working in the industry?
Every project I work on, no matter how inconsequential I must fall in love with to complete. There is a journey for every idea, and I love seeing something I imagined become reality. Things don’t always turn out the way you planned but that can be half the fun!
Now, after a long and varied career across the globe in creative services, I find myself at the Vizrt Group, based in Bergen, Norway. It is inspiring to work with a company that brings together the most innovative video technology brands to create innovative solutions that empower visual storytellers to do more with video.
What piece of advice would you offer someone looking to explore a role similar to yours?
The industry has changed massively since I started out. Content production had been democratised and anyone can make amazing content with very little equipment and experience. Great creative ideas however, you still cannot download from an app. I would advise someone who is looking to get into creative producing to be open to trying every role out, learn to be as useful as possible to your colleagues as you never know what that can teach you.
Also, read a lot, watch everything – diverse kinds of content from different countries and on different mediums. Go travelling and experience what is out there because the more expansive your knowledge of cultural references, and sensibilities, the better your ability to produce engaging content that can truly impact an audience.
