Case studies : Freelance creative: Danae

After studying foundation in art and design at Central Saint Martins College followed by a BA in Graphic Design at Central Saint Martins College Danae has recently been freelancing for the Discovery Channel and the Disney Channel making promo videos for emerging markets.

While at Saint Martins, I learned the obvious design skills and critical analysis, but also how to be independent and determined - two of the most necessary skills when entering the creative industry. Saint Martins was not an art school that spoon fed you, but it definitely helped me to develop both technical and interpersonal skills needed for a successful career. My course worked with pathways, and I mostly concentrated on illustration, animation and audio visual. I particularly enjoyed working on projects and getting hands-on experience and exposure.

When I finished my degree, I started freelancing. I had won a couple of competitions for MTV in my second and third year, so I contacted them and asked for some work.

I was lucky enough to be paid, but unfortunately it is more common to have to do unpaid work or internships when you’re just starting out.

After MTV, I worked in a production company as a creative. I wrote treatments and scripts for television promos and corporate films. I edited footage, sometimes directed and even did some stop frame animations. Most projects had quick turnaround, which kept things interesting.

After two years at the production company, I started my career as a freelance creative. Recently, I have been freelancing for the Discovery Channel and the Disney Channel making promo videos for emerging markets. What I enjoy most is the big variation in the briefs that come in. One minute, I might be making a spot to promote a documentary on Kurt Cobain, and the other, writing a treatment for a corporate film about a mobile satellite company. What I enjoy the least is when everything goes wrong, and I am asked to make last minute changes.

A typical day involves having meetings, writing scripts, editing footage and spending lots of time in the recording studio.

My career aspiration is to get more experience in direction. I would also consider studying an MA in documentary direction. However, at the moment, my work keeps me happy as long as there is variety.

My advice to students wanting to go into this field is to enter lots of competitions when you are at university. This will help you make contacts. When looking for a job, be proactive and persistent and use any contacts you may have to your favour. Also, be selective with your portfolio.