Arrows in Flight with Production Designers Dan Betteridge and Giorgia Lee Joseph

The YOUNG ARROWS awards for emerging talent in the UK moving image advertising industry are free-to-enter for the first time this year.

This year’s Young Arrows awards have closed, and with a record-breaking number of entries received in our first free-to-enter year, it’s set to be an exciting awards show. Why not join us, and see work by the next generation of moving image advertising talent and celebrate alongside the community. Hosted by Reggie Yates, winners will be announced at the ceremony taking place on October 22nd at HERE at Outernet, London. Tickets are on sale and can be purchased here.

Find out more here

We’re hearing from past award-winners to get their creative take.

Our YOUNG ARROWS winner Giorgia Lee Joseph interviews BRITISH ARROWS winner Dan Betteridge to find out more about his career journey, highlights and techniques for success.

Giorgia: What was the turning point in your career? When did you start feeling like you were stepping up?

Dan: I’m not sure about having a specific turning point, as I have always loved what I do and every so often there has been an opportunity to build something a little bit bigger, better, or with more character and detail.
So although it sounds a little trite, it was never just one step.

Giorgia: How did you manage to get to that turning point and work on bigger, high end productions?

Dan: I hope that I try to give more than is allowed for or expected on every production, enjoy the project and try and not go over budget….

Giorgia: What are your most used programs to show concept designs to clients?

Dan: Sketchup, Vray and Photoshop are my go to programmes, I’m still learning all of them….

Giorgia: In Flip, you had a big built and rotating set, how do you approach a design and build like that?

Dan: I had built various rotating and moving sets and rigs over the years (one of my favourite things to do) and this was an extension of those. Understanding the physics and loading on a level was important when drawing the initial design but much much more important was trusting the extremely talented Engineers, SFX and Construction crew who built and operated the mechanism.

Giorgia: Do you have any advice on how to progress in my career?

Dan: Keep stretching yourself and being a little uncomfortable with your next job. I didn’t attend Art School or Uni and went in as a runner on Music Videos, but there are many paths to choose from, and you don’t necessarily need to stay on the same one.

Dan: I was thinking about this and it is one that I ask myself… I think that my question for you is “What would make you happy from your career and life when you look back in 40-50 years” This can be a great industry and I love it but it is easy for it to be all consuming at times……it would be interesting to hear it from your perspective starting out.

Giorgia: This is a tough question!

A straightforward, simple answer would be - engaging in interesting projects, being part of compelling stories, and connecting with other creative and talented individuals.

I often contemplate what the ultimate goal might be. However, it seems there will never be a final goal; we'll always be striving for the next step. As we learn and explore more, our perspectives and aspirations evolve. Is this goal what would bring us happiness?

The concept of a final goal might be elusive. Happiness often comes from a blend of meaningful work, personal growth, positive relationships, and the ability to adapt and embrace new challenges. Instead of a single end goal, it’s probably a series of evolving milestones that contribute to a fulfilling life. In fact, this is what currently makes me happy. I suppose it’s about the journey and not destination? Or both?

Creating interesting collaborations brings me joy. Finding and working with similar creative people, developing strong working relationships—these experiences make me happy and wanting to keep going, even when it gets rough. And I hope it will continue to bring me happiness in 40-50 years too.

When I try to envision myself 40 years from now, looking back at the memories I've created. Ultimately, it comes down to the achievements I desire:

• Telling an important story to the world
• Collaborating with talented individuals
• Satisfying a creative and aesthetic craving
• Working on significant projects and big features
• Traveling the world while working

So, is it the goals or achievements in our careers that brings us happiness? Is it the fulfilment of our creative cravings?