Charlie Harvey - Editor
Job title - Commercial Editor
Experience - 10+ years
“When I started out the boys were so self-assured about their abilities that I just assumed they were all better than me. They were just much better at bullshit. Be confident, but stay humble, you never stop learning.”
Tell us about your job role and the kinds of projects you work on;
I’m a commercials editor living in LA and I don’t really know how to describe the kind of work I do but I suppose its visual storytelling usually cut to music and occasionally amusing. I used to fly around the country a lot but now I mainly sit in my bedroom on my laptop.
What does an average day look like in your post-production working world?
During covid? I make sure I’m dressed appropriately from the waist up but likely still in PJ’s or shorts any lower down. Other than that so long as I’ve showered and have a half decent internet connection I’m all good. I’ve also perfected how to make a sandwich myself and eat it in 30 seconds without lots of people staring at me on Zoom.
When its not Covid? I cant remember anymore, but I know I used to drink cappuccinos. That was nice.
What’s been the highlight of your career so far?
A career highlight for me was probably booking my first job in America. I mean… kinda cool being flown to LA because people like what you do.
Which women in post do you admire?
I admire any female that has made a name for themselves in post or production, especially when I first started out (16 years ago!!!!!).
When I was an assistant, Lisa Gunning and Andrea Macarthur were stars in a time when it was even harder to break through that barrier and get respect as a female editor. It was so important for me to see those guys so I could see what was possible.
What advice do you have for other women wanting to start a career in post?
Play your own game but learn from as many people as you can. Don't work with one person and think you have to be that person to be successful. Don't buy the confident attitude that boys find it easier to project.
When I started out the boys were so self-assured about their abilities that I just assumed they were all better than me. They were just much better at bullshit. Be confident, but stay humble, you never stop learning.
Tell us about your favourite pieces of your work;
There’s a story and experience behind every job you cut. If you get a great script, director, agency and brand then it doesn’t get much better.
Nike ‘Run it’ is my favorite piece of work. I adore We Are From LA at Iconoclast, and the creatives on the job are insanely talented people I would do anything for. Good times.