James PEARSON

As an early teenager during the rise of YouTube 2009-2010 I found myself inspired by emerging content creators. Eager to be involved in this new world of producing online videos, I began filming and editing my own gaming content taking time to teach myself about Adobe products such as Adobe Premier Pro, After effects and Photoshop to make my own video ideas come to life. My keen interest in this area of work has likely been the root of my passion towards creativity within social media, film and video's, particularly within editing, which allows me to step into the perspective of the viewer, creating a range of emotions to convey a story or simple visualisation. I have always remained up to date on current online trends through social media and forums such as Reddit, Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), Tumblr, Instagram, (which I use as a personal photography portfolio) and most importantly the current trending videos on YouTube. My interests on YouTube have varied from gaming, comedy, visual fx, drama series, music videos, animation and technology orientated content creators such as Marques Brownlee, Linus Tech Tips and of course Mrwhosetheboss. Technology channels I particularly frequent for their informational videos that entertain my own personal interest in equipping myself with the latest technology and gadgets and within my previous work within the Technology Dept at John Lewis.

Recently graduating from Anglia Ruskin University, Cambridge with a Bachelor of Arts First Class Honours Degree in Film and Media Studies, I was able to continue and refine my passion and skill for technology, media and film, utilising my increased knowledge to pitch, plan, choreograph and make short films, animations, web designs or themed photographic shoots and other projects either on my own or as part of a team. My editing skills and the use of visual effects and sound design were put to great use and often relied upon by others, not only in the editing of projects, but also in the design of posters and thumbnails. I was approached by lecturers and fellow students requesting my time and skills to help them on small films, which included working as a sound operator and editor for a small budget short film, as well as taking on the role of First Assistant Director on an award-winning short film.

As part of my University studies, I produced written essays, which focused on film theory, analysis and marketing. I also created video essays that discussed similar themes through this alternative medium using detailed editing, narration, sound design and visual effects.

My approach to all of my work is one of commitment, excitement and a natural curiosity and interest to perfect my skills and learn through self-reflection. This commitment to my work was acknowledged when two of my films were shown at the Cambridge Arts Picture House and when I was awarded the Pat Coyle Memorial Prize for academic achievement and/or extra-curricular contribution to Film & Media Studies.

I have used my knowledge and self-motivation to pursue a career alongside my studies as a freelance videographer, which has taught me several skills from budgeting, online marketing, portfolio upkeep, time management, pre- and post-production for a film shoot and most importantly storytelling through sound design and editing for my clients who expect professionalism, excellent time keeping and a natural flare for the work that I do. I have found success in this venture with several published wedding video's, which have resulted in further offers of work through word of mouth and my online portfolio. My passion for photography has also seen success through several wedding shoots and being hired by a local firm of solicitors as their sole photographer for employee group shoots and headshots. I have also volunteered my services to conduct freelance videography and editing work at Ely Cathedral.

16mm Film: Beyond the Sea (2021) - Director, Editor, Writer, Sound Design, Cinematographer

Nominations

Best Experimental Film, Cinemagic Film Festival

Therapy (2022) - First Assistant Director

Wins

Best Entertainment/Comedy - Royal Television Society, Student East Awards

Best Short Laugh, Riservati Pictures Film Festival

Nominations

Best Comedy, Deep Fried Film Festival

Best Short Story, Cinemagic Film Festival

Best Film Inspired by Shakespeare (up to 10mins), Shakespeare Shorts

Bill Vinten University Award for Cinematography

Pat Coyle Memorial Prize (2023)

- academic achievement and/or extra-curricular contribution to Film & Media Studies.

Available upon request.