Media Parents

Grierson Awards Open for Entries

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Entries for Grierson British Documentary Awards 2024 are now open! With 15 categories to enter, the Grierson Awards (brought to you by The Grierson Trust in association with All3Media) celebrate excellence across all documentary genres.

Documentaries and factual programmes that have been available to a UK audience with the first screening between 1 June 2023 – 31 May 2024 are eligible.

Enter by 31 May 2024: https://bit.ly/3v8TlMy

www.mediaparents.co.uk - the jobs and social networking site for short term, part time, job share and regular hours jobs in media. We offer free CV advice for subscribers

April 23, 2024 @ 10:53 am Posted in News Comments Off

5 minutes with PD Dave Baker

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I’m a Creative Producer Director, writes Dave Baker, with 14 years’ experience in factual,  (The One Show, A Place in the Sun, Watchdog). I’ve worked in factual entertainment (Strictly, Come Dine with Me, Cash in the Attic), sport (MOTD, the Paralympics – I came into TV via BBC Sport), children’s, cookery (I had a previous career as a chef), corporate and online promotional films. I’ve diversified to get work!

Dave Baker is available now https://www.mediaparents.co.uk/freelancers/12141/dave-baker

At the moment, like most of the freelance TV workforce, I’ve kind of had it with television. Whilst I don’t want to give the impression I’m hard work, or hard to work with, I feel let down by the broadcasters’ approach to this go-slow, it’s apparent that they haven’t supported the freelancers they usually can’t survive without. Where’s the reassurance? The outreach? The suggestion of any kind of plan? Is it any wonder that TV Mindset is overflowing with freelancers at this stage of the game, to the point that they are broadcasting video messages from beleaguered freelancers? (I mean something stronger than beleaguered).

I’m currently looking for work in TV or out of TV, because whilst I’m experienced, my family can’t survive on nothing. I’m a confident and effective self-shooter on FS6, and I direct crew and talent.  I live outside the M25. I have substantial edit time (Watchdog, The One Show) and the ability to write tight and engaging scripts. (See?)

Dave Baker shoots, directs, edit produces and much more

I’ve updated my CV with invaluable advice from Media Parents Director Amy Walker but despite that it’s not yet secured me work. In addition to self-shooting, directing and edit producing, I’m also an effective contributor finder and casting producer. And I have fast turn-around edit and international shoot experience. What’s a freelancer got to do to get a gig these days?

To contact Dave Baker, log into Media Parents and click here. Dave is available now.

www.mediaparents.co.uk - the jobs and social networking site for short term, part time, job share and regular hours jobs in media. We offer free CV advice for subscribers

April 19, 2024 @ 1:46 pm Posted in Freelancer Profiles Comments Off

5 minutes with Offline Editor Daren Tiley on a fast turnaround doc

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When Offline Editor Daren Tiley hadn’t worked in a while, he chucked Easter under a bus and worked through it on a fast turnaround doc – in fact two in a row. So was it worth it?

Offline Editor Daren Tiley working on C5's fast turnaround doc Kate and the King https://www.mediaparents.co.uk/freelancers/9614/daren-tiley

I’ve worked on two fast turnaround docs commissioned by Federico Ruiz at channel 5 in the last month for Mentorn Media part of the Tinopolis group, writes Daren Tiley. “Wonka: The Scandal that Rocked Britain” and “Kate & The King: A Special Relationship”.

Both productions worked on an unusual fast turnaround of 11 days from production start to channel delivery with TX on Saturday night primetime viewing. So 12 days to TX for a 45 min Channel5 hour.

Production starts on a Tuesday, with interviews shot on Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and some at the weekend. Staggered edits start Friday to Wednesday through the weekend at MSV post in Hammersmith, with 5 editors and EPs working for 5 days to get to picture lock by end of day Wednesday. Each editor takes on a part each with the 5th editor cutting pre titles and any extra bits and bobs. I cut part 4 on both Wonka & Kate myself.

Then voiceover, dub, grade and online all on the same day for channel delivery on the Friday lunchtime for Saturday primetime TX. Phew!

Daren Tiley right and the fast turnaround production team at Mentorn Media

A great team of experienced editors and edit producers worked between 10 & 12 hours a day to make the shows. The calm and collected nature of SP Stuart Strickson on both productions meant a pleasant working experience. Tayte Simpson Execed Wonka and Nicolai Gentchev on Kate also perpetuated the calm.  When working at such speed for delivery you need a great unflappable team behind you.

These fast turnarounds are becoming more popular with Channel 5 commissioners these days and although I don’t think it’s great to see 11-day turnarounds as the norm, it is getting us telly folk back to work on some commissions at least. And the viewers are over all liking the speed of reacting to a breaking news story! Wonka pulled in an audience of 800k, peaking at nearly a million, and was the most watched programme of the day, as was Kate & The King.

Having had no work for the last 6 months it was nice to get five days on Wonka and four  days on Kate. To be back as a team all working together was helpful for my mental health as the last year or so has been and continues to be so hard for so many of us in the TV world! The pace and last-minute nature of this work isn’t sustainable on a single, TV income, so whilst I am grateful for it, I hope it’s replaced by programming that’s scheduled further in advance.

Daren Tiley is available for offline editing work either remotely or from London post houses. https://www.mediaparents.co.uk/freelancers/9614/daren-tiley

www.dtediting.com

www.mediaparents.co.uk - the jobs and social networking site for short term, part time, job share and regular hours jobs in media.

April 11, 2024 @ 2:33 pm Posted in Freelancer Profiles, How To, News Comments Off

5 minutes with Lorraine Molloy PD Edit Producer

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I love trees, writes PD and Edit Producer Lorraine Molloy. My love of trees took me on a 500 mile round trip from Cornwall to London last month. It was my first ever visit to the Royal Courts of Justice.

I was there supporting an amazing group of people from a campaign group called STRAW (Save The Trees of Armada Way). They had successfully called for a judicial review into Plymouth City’s Council handling of the felling of more than 100 trees in the city centre.  The felling took place back in March 2023 causing public outcry and it received national press coverage. My own personal reaction was to create a short film (https://vimeo.com/924892037) and I was fortunate enough to have it screened as part of Plymouth’s first ever Urban Tree Festival! I called on some good big hearted people who kindly gave their time and talents for free. My next step is to get it pitched….any ideas are very welcome. Media Parents has had a commission before I know – lightning can strike twice.

A year ago I was in a position to be able to create a film with no budget. But we all know how quiet it’s been over the last year and now though I really do need to earn some money – as much as I’m a huge believer of IMPACT OVER PROFIT!! Being a single mum to a 14 year old daughter, along with the juggle of self employment has made me even more tenacious, patient and tough (with a soft centre). I can deal with a teen so bring on the next challenge!

Over the last 20+ years I have producer credits ranging from Channel 4’s Location, location location to the BBC’s Great British Menu and Channel 5’s Hotel Inspector. I edit produced remotely on STV’s Great Auction Showdown in 2022 and more recently I have picked up location scouting work for film and commercials, and music videos. I’m based in Cornwall so it’s not surprising that the locations around me are frequently on screen.


Storytelling is my fascination and I love being involved in whatever form it takes. I’m open to work, shared roles, part time, full-time, adhoc and it doesn’t need to be in the south west, I’m very flexible. To contact Lorraine about the film or work go here: https://www.mediaparents.co.uk/freelancers/5872/lorraine-molloy

www.mediaparents.co.uk - the jobs and social networking site for short term, part time, job share and regular hours jobs in media. Next event at midday 28th March online. Mail us a CV for more details


March 27, 2024 @ 10:04 pm Posted in News Leave a comment

EVENT – TV to Corporate: Is it for Me?

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Telemetry Media’s Matt Ralph in conversation with TV Switch Up about leaving TV for corporate work. Matt kindly got in touch to suggest sharing his experience with freelancers and to say thanks to Media Parents for helping him relaunch in TV when he returned to the UK from Australia. Our pleasure, thanks for paying it forward!

Matt Ralph from Telemetry Media

Matt’s creative career began in television production in the late 1990s. Since then, he has had the opportunity to develop, write, produce, shoot, direct and edit programmes and series, for international broadcasters, including the BBC and the Discovery Channel.

A founding member of the senior management team at the UK’s multi award-winning digital channel, BBC Three, Matt specialised in multi-platform content strategy working closely with social, marketing, production, development and channel scheduling teams to ensure maximum audience engagement.
Matt joined Anglo American in March 2020 from Brunswick Creative, where he worked on client accounts ranging from Nokia to HSBC. Matt lives in South-West London with his wife, two daughters and a Sprocker-poo called Monty, he is an Australian dual citizen and holds a First-class honours degree in Fine Art Sculpture.

How can I present my CV and skills? How can I get connected? Is it a one way street?

SWITCHING UP YOUR CAREER – WITH MATT RALPH
Thursday 11th April 2024 – 6pm
**Transitioning from Long Form to Short Form Filmmaking: Navigating Corporate Opportunities**
In this session, Matt will be sharing insights gained from his extensive background in television spanning from 1998 to 2015. He will delve into his journey of transitioning from long-form content creation to the dynamic world of short-form filmmaking, including experiences with branded content and projects for BBC Three.
He will also discuss the pivotal moment when he made the shift into corporate filmmaking and how he secured his first break in the industry. He’ll explore the nuances between working on the agency side versus the client side, uncovering key differences and insights to navigate both landscapes successfully.
Throughout the webinar, Matt will be providing practical tips and tricks, accompanied by slides, to empower you in your own transition and help you thrive in the corporate filmmaking realm. Get ready to embark on an insightful journey as we navigate the exciting opportunities and challenges of transitioning from long form to short form filmmaking in the corporate world.
Matt’s creative career began in television production in the late 1990′s. Since then, he has had the opportunity to develop, write, produce, shoot, direct and edit programmes and series, for international broadcasters, including the BBC and the Discovery Channel.
A founding member of the senior management team at the UK’s multi award-winning digital channel, BBC Three, Matt specialised in multi-platform content strategy working closely with social, marketing, production, development and channel scheduling teams to ensure maximum audience engagement.
Time: Apr 11, 2024 06:00 PM London
Join Zoom Meeting

By TV Switch Up – A Telly Mums Group

www.mediaparents.co.uk - the jobs and social networking site for short term, part time, job share and regular hours jobs.

March 21, 2024 @ 3:09 pm Posted in Events, News, TV Training Comments Off

5 minutes with senior producer Jodie Chillery

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Sheffield’s iconic and longest running music venue, The Leadmill, was the location, writes Producer Jodie Chillery. It was a hot summers eve, I’d just watched Doc Fest’s screening of Joe Cocker: Mad Dog With Soul. Engaging in what I was sure was an important and career enhancing conversation with its director, my enthusiasm fuelled by Guinness and the heady excitement that doc fest induces, I thought; “If these guys can make successful feature docs, so maybe, one day can I!“ I even put this in a text and sent it to my series producer. Because of course, then, I was gainfully employed. We all were. He replied with equal enthusiasm telling me that indeed it is “a privilege to work in this industry, full of so much opportunity“. I don’t know what he’d been drinking!

https://www.mediaparents.co.uk/freelancers/4945/jodie-chillery Jodie Chillery working with Richard Hammond on his Workshop for Discovery+ 2022

Six years later in 2023, and the industry was on its knees in crisis, with writers’ strikes, actors’ strikes, commissioning and advertising freezes. We’ve been told to “hold our nerve” we’ve been assured it will “pick up by September”, yet BECTU confirmed 70% of respondents to an industry survey were still not in work. But most appallingly neither was I. In 20 years I’d only had 6 weeks out of work, unless for childbearing reasons or choice. May 2023 was my fifth consecutive unemployed month and that of my 40something birthday: enough to bring on a midlife crisis and mild depression. I did not feel much of that afore-mentioned privilege right then.

Finally, an opportunity arose, at a fledgling company I’d never heard of, for a project seemingly shrouded in mystery. I arranged to meet the exec. I arrived on my bike in the pouring rain. I dripped all over the very obviously new rug in their basement meeting room, and had to keep removing my glasses to wipe my persistent steam.  None of this was the look I was hoping for at my first job interview in months.

That mystery project, it turns out, is possibly the most career-enhancing film I’ve ever worked on, without doubt it’s been an incredible privilege, and a feature doc to boot!

Jodie Chillery, Producer on location for Cop Car Workshop, UKTV

I’ve gained a gaggle of new best friends aged between 7 and 15 all facing huge crises of their own. I’ve laughed and cried with them in equal measure, as they allowed us into their lives to share their most vulnerable, and most resilient moments. I’ve laughed and cried even harder with the crew at the end of long shoot days from hotel Beefeater bars in Fife, Scotland, to gun slinging saloon bars in Fort Worth, Texas.

It’s a cliche, but it’s been a journey. One I never imagined possible back in midlife-crisis-may. And perhaps that’s fate. However bad the hardship freelancers of the unscripted TV crisis face, nothing compares to my new “BFFs” who have been dealt a seriously shitty hand.

My band of cheeky contributors have in common a cruel experience of childhood cancer. A brutal disease that is alleged to be rare in children. But it’s on the increase, and the need for new research into kinder, age-appropriate treatments never greater. Only 2% of funds raised for research into cancer treatment goes on the cancers that attack children. This is horrific of course, but I can sense you’re thinking; “Who on earth would choose to watch a feature doc about kids with cancer?” Well, wait till you meet the kids. The narrative is led by them, and shot from their POV, this film is not what you might have come to expect from a cancer doc. (Is that even a genre?!)

It’s about children, about their experiences, and all the madness of life.

Yes there are some devastating scenes, but there are many more uplifting ones. As with any 7- or 15-year-old, there’s friends, school, annoying siblings, pets, parents and piano practice, and then unlike the rest, there’s cancer. There’s no end to their stories, the impact continues for everyone and that is the overarching point this film makes. Cancer never leaves, in-fact remission is perhaps just the start.

It’s a compelling and important watch. I would say that. As I’m plunged back into this ongoing uncertain TV jobs market, at least this time, I’m safe in the knowledge I did produce a successful feature doc, and it was indeed a privilege. However bad my midlife crisis, its child’splay compared to the adversity faced by these kids. If they can carry on with smile, then so can I.

Jodie was the Senior Producer and additional Director on this new feature doc which is due to be released this summer, when we will be able to share all the TX details, watch this space to find out more. To contact Jodie log in to Media Parents and click here: https://www.mediaparents.co.uk/freelancers/4945/jodie-chillery

www.mediaparents.co.uk - the jobs and social networking site for short term, part time, job share and regular hours jobs in media.

@ 1:06 pm Posted in News Comments Off

5 minutes with development exec Chris Monk

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I’ve worked in unscripted development for 15 years, writes Development Exec Chris Monk.

Chris Monk: https://www.mediaparents.co.uk/freelancers/17745/chris-monk

During that time, I’ve held senior positions at some of the UK’s most highly regarded production companies including Optomen, Hat Trick, Boundless and Expectation. My credits encompass premium documentaries (One Shot: The Football Factory, House of Maxwell), returning formats (Rich House Poor House, Grand Designs: The Streets), and specialist factual programming (Pride and Prejudice: Having a Ball, Uncle Vanya).

In recent years, I’ve established myself as a freelance development consultant, available to provide creative advice to start-ups as well as established companies, while continuing to originate and develop my own ideas with support from collaborative indies.

I’m looking for a part-time position in which I provide general consultancy services, or work on specific projects. I am equally comfortable working as a one-man band -  conducting my own research, writing and designing my own treatments using Keynote and Canva, edit-producing sizzles – as I am managing teams of researchers, APs and producers.

At present, I have capacity for two days per week, but I would also be open to one day per week, or perhaps more ad-hoc, occasional work. So, if you’re looking for someone to refresh your existing slate, provide strategic advice, write a top-notch proposal, or collaborate on ideas for a specific brief, then please get in touch.

https://www.mediaparents.co.uk/freelancers/17745/chris-monk

www.mediaparents.co.uk - the jobs and social networking site for short term, part time, job share and regular hours jobs in media.

March 20, 2024 @ 10:43 pm Posted in Freelancer Profiles, News Leave a comment

5 minutes with PC Emma Bellars

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Hi All, writes PC Emma Bellars
Looking for some help? I’m currently on mat leave before returning to full time PC role in mid April. I have absolutely no money coming in until then and desperately looking for anything whilst I’m home.

Emma Bellars https://www.mediaparents.co.uk/freelancers/17828/emma-bellars

I have 3 days a week I can dedicate to absolutely anything- admin/research/secretary/coordinator work. With credits on Great British Railway Journeys, Afghanistan: No Country for Women and Dispatches: Vaccine Wards, I’m proficient in Albert and sound mouse too.
I have my own laptop, just looking to help in any way possible, whilst earning a little bit of money and not going crazy in the last few weeks! Please get in touch!
Thank you,
Emma
P.S. The photo is myself and Maxwell, the little bean who’s my current sidekick!
Log in to Media Parents and click here to get Emma’s contact details.

freelancers finding it tough out there contact the Film + TV Charity for support here: https://filmtvcharity.org.uk/get-support/

www.mediaparents.co.uk - the jobs and social networking site for short term, part time, job share and regular hours jobs in media.

March 6, 2024 @ 9:55 pm Posted in Freelancer Profiles, News, TV Returners Comments Off

5 minutes with Producer Stephanie Carpanini

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Hi there! writes Producer Stephanie Carpanini. I’m a first time mum and long time Producer looking for a job share. I have worked in casting (C4’s Secret Life of the Safari), location and story (A&E’s Prison Brides), studio (BBC’s MasterChef), as well as commercial and branded content projects (Southampton FC’s 23/24 kit launch).

Producer Stephanie Carpanini is looking for a job share or part time work. https://www.mediaparents.co.uk/freelancers/17704/stephanie-carpanini

I’ve been in TV for over 13 years working across fact ent, obs docs and some reality. I would like to gain edit and welfare experience, and work on varied content jobs.

If anyone at a similar level with a similar CV would want to chat about a job share then please get in touch!

https://www.mediaparents.co.uk/freelancers/17704/stephanie-carpanini

I am looking to return to work in April/May either in a part time (3/4days a week) or job share capacity. Then build back up to full time, as my daughter settles into nursery. I am happy to do recces or location shoots in the UK, for short periods of time whilst my daughter is still young.

Producer Stephanie Carpanini is looking for a job share or part time work. https://www.mediaparents.co.uk/freelancers/17704/stephanie-carpanini

If anyone at a similar level with a similar CV would want to chat about a job share then please get in touch! Log in to Media Parents and click here for Steph’s contact details.

Join us for Media Parents jobs, events and training at www.mediaparents.co.uk.

March 4, 2024 @ 4:06 pm Posted in Freelancer Profiles, News, TV Returners Comments Off

5 minutes with PM Bella Gregory

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Who Am I?

writes Production Manager Bella Gregory.

Bella Gregory, PM https://www.mediaparents.co.uk/freelancers/11003/bella-gregory

Imagine Liz Lemon, with her endless supply of quirky quips and snack foods, meets Olivia Pope, with her unshakeable resolve and impeccable wardrobe (okay, maybe just the resolve part). That’s me, Bella Gregory, striding through the world of production management with my trusty notebook in one hand and a bag of cheesy blasters in the other (to my absolute horror these have actually become a thing that people consume – hot dog, rolled in a pizza, covered in so much cheese).

From managing complex international shoots to negotiating with demanding crew, talent, vendors etc. I’ve done it all with a blend of humour, strategy, Kindness, compassion and an unwavering commitment to excellence.

Why I’m the Gladiator in a Suit You Need:

International Fixer:

I’ve tackled production challenges across the globe, from the bustling streets of London and New York to the remote reaches of the Congo, all while keeping my sense of humour intact.

Budget Wizard:

Crunching numbers while I find the best deal on night cheese, I maximise every penny of a budget, ensuring the show goes on without a hitch.

Crisis Avenger:

When production snafus arise, I channel all my energy handling each crisis with a “consider it handled” attitude and a side of Lemon-esque quips.

Team Leader Extraordinaire:

Leading with a mix of compassion, humor, and a no-nonsense approach, I inspire the team to achieve the impossible, proving every day that “there’s always a way.”

What’s Next:

I’m looking for my next big challenge, a project that requires a unique blend of creative problem-solving, steadfast leadership, and the ability to laugh in the face of adversity (and occasional danger). If you’re in need of someone who can navigate the complexities of production with finesse and relatable humanity, let’s make TV magic together.

Let’s Connect:

For a brainstorming session, a crisis consultation, or just to share your favourite “30 Rock” quote, reach out. Let’s create something memorable.

Bonus Fact:

I am an actual New Yorker from NY, who holds dual UK/USA Citizenship. (I have jumped on many a red eye to LA to just deliver rushes).

Log in to Media Parents and click here to see Bella’s CV

Join us for Media Parents jobs, events and training at www.mediaparents.co.uk.

@ 2:37 pm Posted in Freelancer Profiles, News Comments Off