Dean Massey

How did you get your role as a camera operator editor at Sky?

In the December before I graduated, I managed to secure a job in a trainee position at Sky News which was part of a bursary scheme. That was to start in July, so I graduated and went straight into the position where I had the opportunity to move around some of the different production departments. I received training in sound, editing, lighting, and camera work. I was in that role for almost a year, and then a position came up in what we call a ‘shoot edit’ which is a camera-operator-editor – I managed to get that and that’s what I’ve been doing now for the past two years.

Did you always know you wanted to be a camera operator?

I decided I wanted to be a camera operator while I was at uni. Originally I wanted to work in video production and was doing lots of work through Solent Creatives making promo videos for businesses and filming live events, such as Glastonbury, through Solent Productions. From those experiences I decided that behind the camera in TV was really where I wanted to be.

How do you feel your studies at Solent helped prepare you for your role?

Solent provided so many opportunities for work experience through Solent Creatives and at events like Glastonbury – it seemed like every week I was able to do something new, which really helped to push me further. Also having all the equipment loans was incredible to build upon my skills; I made big use of it and had the most loans out of the hatch in my year! Without the opportunity to do that, I don’t think I’d be where I am now.

What advice would you give to those wanting to follow in your footsteps?

My advice would be to keep creating videos as much as you can, and experiment as much as you can. Take every opportunity that Solent offers through Solent Creatives and Solent Productions and fill your free time at University with being creative – making your own videos and getting feedback.