BA (Hons) Film & TV Production
Graduated 2018
I’m Daniel James, an alumni of Bucks New University. I studied Film & TV Production from 2015-2018. 20 days after graduating in the September of 2018 I began my career in the industry as a Junior Digital Producer at a production and distribution company, Banijay. I created social media content for shows like MasterChef and Hunted. After five years I took the leap to being a freelancer and for two and half years now I’ve been working on a range of films and television shows as a Digital Content Producer.
What are your memories of being a student at BNU?
The first thing that comes to mind are the events the Students’ Union had on Fridays. Work-wise, hiring equipment from Media Resources to create short films for our assignments and also extra-curricular.
What advice could you give to recent graduates who want to get ahead?
You will receive a lot of no’s and sometimes you won’t even hear back from jobs you’ve applied for. Don’t be disheartened. When you do get that job, do it with the biggest smile on your face. Be personable and be kind because the people you work with will be the ones who can determine your future in the industry.
How did your degree at BNU impact on your career?
We were very lucky to have modules that involved real-life experience. I did an Outdoor Broadcasting module so having the experience of filming Reading’s football matches and being on a set for BBC Introducing put me ahead of lots of other people as I had that industry knowledge.
Why did you join the course?
I love films and I love television. I wanted to just learn more about films and BNU offer that theory side but also the Outdoor Broadcasting module really hooked me. I love being on a set and this opportunity excited me. Learning the etiquette as well as feeling the pressure of a live environment is exciting and you’re lucky enough to get that at BNU.
What aspects of your studies did you enjoy the most and why?
The practical side, gaining the experience of working with cameras and lights. The Film and TV industry is all about how you can cope under pressure and how you work within a team and I loved working with different people on the different Outdoor Broadcasting shoots and learning from industry professionals too.
Which parts of your student experience were the best preparation for your job?
Working on sets. I’ve had feedback from jobs that have said they went with me because of my experience on a set and in a live environment.
What are your major careers milestones since completing your studies?
I’ve been lucky enough to be on the Digital Team for the relaunch of Big Brother, travelled to South Africa to work on Love Island: All Stars and most recently been a Digital Content Producer on two upcoming Prime Video films; Your Fault: London and Our Fault London. Although the major milestone for me is getting that first recommendation for another job after just going freelance. Going freelance is always daunting due to the uncertainty on where the next job is coming from, however after securing that first job and then being recommended for something else always makes me proud knowing has that belief in me, it feels like they’re saying “I trust him and he’s good at what he does”.
What are your future ambitions?
I’d like to work on some more films creating content. I’ve done lots of reality tv, but making bespoke content with talent is always exciting. Producing, filming, editing and then seeing it on digital platforms is always very rewarding so more of that will be enjoyable!
What advice would you give to a student considering the course or looking to get into a career in your sector?
If you want a career where you wake up everyday excited to go to work, take that jump. You’ll have long hours and won’t always know the answer, but if you show you’re willing to work hard and learn people will believe in you.