Beth Roberts - Editor
Job title - Editor
Experience - 5+ years
“I originally trained to be a dancer, which is where I think my approach for editing comes from in terms of rhythm and pacing and my obsession with movement and how things feel to watch. ”
Tell us about your job role and the kinds of projects you work on;
Oh HEY edit girls, nice to see you again! I’m Beth, I’m an editor, signed to Nomad in London. I work on music videos, content and commercials as well as the occasional short film.
What does an average day look like in your post-production working world?
An average day for me of course depends on where I am in a particular project but usually has me looking through all the rushes, making selects, and writing notes of my ideas or any immediate thoughts I have on paper. I usually have an edit building in my mind in its rough stages as I’m working through the media so I like to put pen to paper on anything that stands out. Once I’m familiar with the material I like to discuss with the director the overall feeling of the piece, the emotion we are trying to create/portray so I can keep it in mind the whole way through the project. I also like to show things early doors so I can get a sense of whether we’re going in the right direction early on and build that trust.
How did your career in post-production begin?
I started out as a runner whilst studying at Ravensbourne University. I had no contacts/no prior connections to the film industry so I interned all over the place to get my foot in the door. I then went on to work for Vice and Buzzfeed and ended up at Marshall Street Editors for a few years as an assistant before I went to Agile Films as an in-house editor. I originally trained to be a dancer, which is where I think my approach for editing comes from in terms of rhythm and pacing and my obsession with movement and how things feel to watch. I think if you can move somebody with a piece you’ve created, the story you are telling becomes more memorable, so that’s always my aim.
Tell us about a career highlight;
This is a tough one, I’ve had a fair few already. Getting to assist Jinx Godfrey was pretty awesome. Being nominated for best edit at Kinsale Shark feels like it should get a mention too, that one kind of blew my mind and of course getting signed to Nomad is my most recent highlight.
What has been a pivotal moment in your career?
My signing to Nomad. Having that support and having someone else believe in who I am and who I’m trying to be as an editor, it feels like a huge win. I’m honoured to be a part of their fantastic roster and I’m just really excited to have the opportunity to show people what I’m really made of.
Which women in post do you admire?
Honestly, the list is far too long. Being a woman in this field poses all kinds of difficulties so I think all of the women working in the industry deserve an extra big pat on the back. I will say though, I’m probably Ellie Johnson’s number No1 fan.
What are your stand out pieces of work?
Adidas Messi 15 years spot, OnePlus Earbuds, Eli Brown Trouble music video and the Grief Encounter spot, bit of a tear jerker that one.
What advice do you have for other women wanting to start a career in post?
My advice would be to trust your gut, work hard, keep learning and ultimately, be yourself, that’s the one USP no one else can offer. Oh and try and get some work life balance, I’m still working that one out myself. It's my biggest failure but keeping the industry's burnout culture alive isn’t something we should be feeding into, it’s about time for a big industry-wide shake-up to change that.