This week we talk to the wonderful Gabrielle about her role as Graphic Designer and Researcher, her professional path and some advices for younger graphic designers!
– Hi Gabby (or do you prefer Gabrielle), thanks for taking some time to discuss with us today! What would you say a Graphic Designer role entails for working in Film and TV?
Heya, Gabby is fine thanks!
I’m a bit of a jack of all trades when it comes to design, and have been transitioning from the “real world” of branded graphics into the far more fun world of Film & TV, so my work with PP has been a bit of image research, koora creating pitches and presentations as well as some graphics to be used in concept art. So far what I’ve learnt is that the most important things are a great working knowledge of your craft, be it hand drawn or digital, fabulous research skills, a positive attitude and the ability to work to a deadline, no matter how tight.
– Yes deadlines… everyone’s favourite thing! How did you come to be in this position today, was it something that was pre-
planned or did you also have to work on different roles to get where you are today?
I spent the first 8 years of my career working as a multi-disciplinary designer, both in house for brands, in design agencies and as a freelancer, and it’s those skills that help me get into working with PP. That and a great contact, Erica, who has been an amazing friend, mentor and resource in helping me get into the industry. Right now I’m still working towards doing graphic design for film & TV; doing research, learning the skills and safari building my network, but I have been lucky enough to work on some sci-fi shorts which should be coming out later this year, as well as some adverts here and there!
– Which show/film or general project have you been on makes you the most proud of your work/you like the most?
I am loving working on His Dark Materials, even though none of my contributions are in the show yet. It’s amazing to see how the team all works together to build such a massive world that is so detailed and immersive.
– Do you have any advice for people wanting to follow in your steps?
It’s never too late to change careers! Just because you didn’t start working in film & TV when you left art school (or never went to art school) doesn’t mean it’s not for you. But also that it’s all a process, you can’t expect to arrive in your dream job without a bit of hustle, a lot of hard work and some patience.
– Thank you so much Gabby, I know you’re quite busy and we appreciate you taking the time!