Sam Hopkins - Film Production
Sam Hopkins is an Encoder and Video Technician at an Oscar-winning production company. He spoke to us about his career to date and gave us his tips to succeed – and on where to find the best jobs in broadcasting and film.
By Martyn Lobar
What made you want to get into the media industry Sam?
For as long as I can remember I have wanted to work in film and television. I saw the impact that these media have on their audiences and wanted the chance to create my own vision for people. I find being creative and imaginative extremely fulfilling.
What did you do at university?
I took Screen Production at Winchester University. It was a practical degree, which is what I wanted. I learnt about directing, editing, camerawork and sound, film, television and documentary making. The course gave me the opportunity to expand on some of the skills and knowledge I already had.
Did you get any work experience before university?
Yes – I’ve always tried to do as much as I can. I went to the film school in Brighton during a summer break and got my first job in the industry with a post-production company called Dubbs. I started as a Runner and then became a VT [video tape] Operator before I went to university.
And since you graduated?
Since leaving university I have continued to gain work experience wherever I can. I have travelled to Turkey, to film the World Youth and Student Travel Conferences – I was a cameraman. This was with a small production company called Gas Productions.
What was your first job after you graduated?
At APTN [Associated Press TV News].
How did you get it?
Through a website called www.broadcastnow.co.uk which carries broadcasting and television-related jobs. Other good websites are www.mandy.com and www.grapevinejobs.com.
Did it live up to your expectations?
It was a great place to start my career and was an invaluable experience. APTN gave me confidence and also provided me with expertise in broadcast technology. It is important to learn as much as possible from every role you take.
What is your current job role?
I have recently started working for The Mill. This is an Oscar-winning post-production company. I work in a department called ‘Media Transfer’.
What’s that?
We’re the last port of call in the post-production line. Once a film/advert/documentary has been completed, our job is to get the pictures up to all the correct specifications for broadcasting and either duplicate the pictures on to the various tape formats (VT operating) or make files of the picture for use on the internet (encoding).
What is your ultimate ambition?
I want to be a Film Editor/Director because these are the most creative roles. I’ve also always wanted a career where I go to work happy and contented.
Will your current role help?
Yes. It is helping me to develop my editing skills for film making. I aim to learn as much as possible in this role and apply myself 100 per cent – then see what doors open for me.
What advice would you give to other graduates who are looking to break into your industry?
It depends on what you want to specialise in. The main thing to remember is that experience in the industry is just as important as qualifications gained. Throw yourself into as much as possible and be pro-active. Whatever your passion is, you can always help yourself by building up a portfolio of your own work.
Anything else?
It is also worth remembering that you will get breaks but also knock-backs. Nevertheless, treat it all as character-building experience. If you’re determined, passionate and driven to succeed, then you will. Believe in yourself and believe in your goals.
