Capturing the moment

"My passion for film began when I was about 13 but I have always been interested in media of various kinds. The BA (Hons) Media Arts course supports all factors of media, while allowing you to focus on your particular area of interest, which in my case is film making and documentary. BA (Hons) Media Arts has helped me to channel my existing skills as well as developing new ones. It has led to some fantastic opportunities and new contacts which will make a great difference to my career. 

"The course encourages you to take your work beyond the University and I engaged in a number of professional film projects during my time at Plymouth.

"My plan was always to start a freelance filmmaking business whilst I was studying at Plymouth; it seemed the best opportunity to go forward, and I was always aware that it could take time to grow. I made sure that whilst on the media arts course that I would make all the necessary contacts that would help my business thrive." 

"Since graduation I have been building my freelance filmmaking business. Each year I have not only worked in the UK, but I have travelled the world and visited some amazing and eye-opening places, people, and cultures. The beauty of being a filmmaker is that each client and job is a different experience and requires a unique approach, all of which test my skills and passions whilst practising a craft that I love.

"As a freelance filmmaker the most difficult thing I experience on a day to day basis is a level of uncertainty. There can be weeks without work and it can get a little scary at times. On the other hand, there can be too much work and you have to turn people away.

"To be a freelance film-maker, you need to be dedicated and patient. When you start off, it is unlikely that you would be making a sufficient amount of income. When studying, use your spare time to build up a portfolio, this is one of the most important things to help you get clients."

"I am a very technical and practical person when it comes to filmmaking. Whilst on the media arts course, I lacked a theoretical knowledge to underpin my strengths. The University realised this and helped me to focus on my weaknesses. Now, when I frame the shot, or cut a film in a certain way, I’m able to articulate the reasons behind my choices. It has dramatically improved the way I tell a story."

"One of my favourite memories is using the traditional 35mm photography developing suite on a module. I found the task of using an analogue film camera incredibly different to the digital process we take for granted today. Stills photography is not my passion; however, I believe practising this process is fundamental to improving the way we take digital stills or even video."