Q & A with Charlie Barker, Director of Photography

Have you always wanted to work in this industry?

No, I didn’t know what I wanted to do when I left university. I did a variety of jobs and even tried shipbroking for a year. Though it was interesting I realised then that office work wasn’t for me. I left & immediately got a job at a video conference company.  This led to me working in the TV industry, starting as a runner & working my way up to my job now.

What are you most proud of? 

On a personal level, my family. On a business level I’m proud of pretty much everything I work on – I try to give every job 100% & my satisfaction comes from lighting a beautiful interview all the way to capturing something on ‘film’ that I know will give a lot of people a lot of satisfaction. 

What advice would you give to someone keen to start a business but unsure where to begin?

Listen to advice from colleagues & elders, and learn from your mistakes. But make sure you  bring positivity & energy to whatever you’re doing plus care for your clients – they notice it! The relationship really works both ways. Also, never be late – a less stressed you is a better you and it’s rude to leave people waiting. 

Who is one of your biggest inspirations – either professionally or personally?

My parents were always my biggest inspiration personally – love & support to the max. Professionally all my colleagues along the way who I still learn from.

If you could attribute your success to anyone who gave you your big break?

Difficult question because I’ve had quite a few but I’d probably say a production manager at what was then London Weekend TV, who kept employing me when I first went freelance.  

What’s the hardest thing about your job?

The hours & the physical & mental strain. Making TV is fun but it’s also very demanding. I’m away from home a lot which can be very difficult but fortunately I have a very understanding wife.

Which part of your job do you most enjoy?

The teamwork, camaraderie & the job satisfaction 

Do you find it easy to balance work and play?

Being freelance and self employed means finding a balance can sometimes be hard – you never know when your next job is coming so it’s very hard to say no to work. It does mean I’m away quite a bit but when I’m at home I’m home .

Talk us through your dream day – from waking up to going to bed. 

Waking up with the kids, a relaxing breakfast, a long walk, lunch out, siesta, kids play, kids down, dinner, wind down tv/film, bed. THIS NEVER HAPPENS!

To follow Charlie’s photographic adventures check out his Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nomadicwanderins/