Meet Eleanor, a 24-year-old former student of London Film Academy who is now working as a camera trainee in the film and television industry.
With an unwavering passion for filmmaking and a burning desire to gain hands-on experience behind the camera, Eleanor shares her inspiring journey from an aspiring filmmaker to working on productions such as the BBC drama 'Silent Witness'.
Choosing LFA for Hands-On Experience
Eleanor's decision to enrol in the Filmmaking Certificate course at LFA stemmed from her previous experience with theory-heavy coursework during her undergraduate studies at another university.
Yearning for a more practical approach to filmmaking, Eleanor was drawn to LFA's immersive and hands-on learning environment, which she found to be a perfect fit for her aspirations.
Eleanor found access to industry-standard equipment such as Arri Alexa, Alexa Mini, and various lenses an opportunity to create tangible work she could be proud of.
This immersive experience equipped her with technical skills and instilled confidence in her ability to navigate the industry. In the process, she mastered essential aspects like lighting and camera features.
Navigating the Industry After LFA
After completing her studies at LFA, Eleanor leveraged the connections she had made and tapping into resources provided by the Screenskills Trainee Finder.
Joining various Facebook groups recommended by LFA, she immersed herself in the industry, starting as a runner and gradually working her way up.
Eleanor's determination to pursue camera-based positions led her to secure multiple production roles, including work on the show ‘In for a Penny’ and 'Tell Me Everything' for ITV and her current position on a BBC drama.
Her work on these projects has been highly praised, further solidifying her efforts.
These have played a pivotal role in facilitating these opportunities, allowing Eleanor to thrive in her desired field within the film and television industry.
Support and Growth Opportunities at LFA
Reflecting on her time at LFA, Eleanor emphasises the importance of the support she received from Filmmaking Certificate course leader, Lincoln Ascott, who shared invaluable industry experience and guidance.
As well as Lincoln, Eleanor appreciated having an array of lecturers who actively worked in the industry, as it provided a realistic understanding of what to expect.
Engaging with fellow students also allowed her to expand her network and collaborate on various projects, reiterating the supportive and friendly atmosphere within LFA.
Investing in Yourself and Upskilling
Eleanor's commitment to continuous learning and growth within the industry means she's continually investing in herself and upskilling. This keeps her updated with the latest industry trends and technologies and enhances her versatility and adaptability, making her a valuable asset in any production.
Looking towards the future, Eleanor contemplates joining another short course at LFA to refresh her knowledge and gain insights into the nuances of camera operation and settings.
Emphasising the value of practical experience in mastering the craft and the importance of taking the time to observe and learn from experienced professionals.
Advice for Aspiring Filmmakers
What's Next for Eleanor?
Currently working as a camera trainee on 'Silent Witness,' Eleanor aims to become a Director of Photography (DoP). She plans to continue developing her skills by working on independent projects and taking on more challenging roles in her current job. She also intends to build relationships within the industry by attending networking events and reaching out to professionals, as she believes these connections will play a crucial role in her career advancement.
Eleanor's journey from film student to camera trainee exemplifies the importance of passion, perseverance, and seizing opportunities in the competitive world of filmmaking.
With determination and dedication, she is well on her way to achieving her dreams in the filmmaking world.