Carla Wright, Shooting Producer and Director

What are some recent projects that you've worked on in Yorkshire?

Earlier this year I finished a Channel 4 series called The Yorkshire Jobcentre – an observational documentary about a Jobcentre in Leeds. I’d been working on the access, on and off for, about 4 / 5 years so it was amazing to see it finally on screen.

Since lockdown I’ve been working on Steph’s Packed Lunch – C4’s new Leeds-based live show. It’s not my usual type of work, but it’s been brilliant to be part of such an exciting new production in the region.

When lockdown lifts I’m heading to Candour Productions (also in Leeds), to make a single documentary for the BBC.

What was your path into film and TV?

I studied Broadcast Journalism at University, and at the end of my course was offered an unexpected break into Trisha, which was the precursor to Jeremy Kyle. It wasn’t the area of television I wanted to work in but the credit later allowed me into a researcher role at a factual company.

Tell us about any particular highlights and any notable challenges that you have overcome during your career in the industry?

My highlights are definitely the experiences television gives you .I’ve been all over the world with my work, often inside privileged spaces that would never have allowed me in without a camera. I’ve met countless extraordinary people and had the honour of helping many of them tell their stories. I’m fascinated by people, so I love asking the questions that help them really think about who they are.

The challenges are always the long hours, time away from home and all-consuming nature of the job.

What do you love about working in Yorkshire? What makes it different to filming in other regions?

Yorkshire people are my people! I grew up in the region so I have an affinity with the area, and I think that allows me to be an authentic voice.

I personally find Yorkshire folk more laid back and friendlier to work with, but obviously I’m biased!

Shooting Producer & Director Carla Wright has worked on productions including Channel 4's 'Steph’s Packed Lunch '

Do you have any advice for people starting out in your department?

I’d say that attitude is key. People have to want to work with you, so you need to be good company on those long drives and trips away. Of course there are other specific skills you’ll need to develop but that’s a crucial start point, and translates into a work skill too. You’ll need the contributors to warm to you too. If they don’t, then you’ll never get the best from them.

How do you think the production landscape has changed in the region over the past 5 years?

I think it is a really exciting time for television in Yorkshire. A few years ago to work in documentary I had to base myself in London a lot. Now there is more and more happening up here and that can only be a good thing for everyone.

There are new production companies springing up all the time making a great range of different programmes, and the Channel 4 move feels like an endorsement for the region as a whole. I’m really hopeful that the industry here will continue to grow and grow.

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