Kicking off our new blog series, 'Meet the Gate', we're beaming our spotlight on the marvellous, the exceptional, Kayleigh Hutchinson. We caught up with Kayleigh over a brew, make one yourself and step inside her role as Assistant Producer at The Gate Films.
TGF: Tell us about your journey to get here, Kayleigh.
KH: I've always been interested in production and sought out work experience and running experience to learn more about the industry. I continued this throughout my time at university and balanced working as a part-time lifeguard too. With all this experience under my belt, as soon as I graduated, I was over the moon to be offered a role with The Gate as Production Assistant. I've been with The Gate just under two years now and have progressed to Assistant Producer.
TGF: What's the best advice that you've ever been given?
KH: "If you don't try, you'll never know."
TGF: What's your go-to advice to help others?
KH: "If at first you don't succeed, try again."For me, a positive mindset attracts positive outcomes.
TGF: Tell us about your ambition in life.
KH: I want to explore film production for humanitarian documentaries. I find people, cultures and lifestyles that are under the radar fascinating - I want to shine a positive light on them. Even though the world feels small in our digital age, there's still so much on our planet that's waiting to be discovered and with each and every moment that goes by, its evolving. I want to share these insights for the greater good - helping to break down boundaries, reduce stigma and make people think. I want to be part of creating something meaningful that will have a positive impact on the lives of others.
TGF: Is there an unforgettable project that shaped your way of working?
KH: Working on the Firetrap production in Spain with Rhiannon was incredible. It was such an eye-opening experience and I soaked up so much knowledge about working with overseas production facilities. It also gave me the opportunity to work a lot closer with the clients than what I would on a shoot in England, which gave me more of an idea of what it takes to be a producer. Loved this job.
TGF: Who would be your dream client?
KH: I'd love to work with Patrick Mavros - a luxury African jewellery brand that has the most gorgeous pieces of jewellery inspired by the African environment and wildlife. One of their recent collections - The Pangolin Collection - contributes to raising awareness of the Tikki Hywood Trust, which is a charity that focuses on rescuing and rehabilitating endangered mammal species in Zimbabwe, such as the Pangolin. Being a massive animal and jewellery lover, this would be my idea of a dream client.
TGF: What advice would you give those wanting to work in film production?
KH: Work hard, meet as many people as you can and be prepared. Each day and each shoot is different.
TGF: Thank you for sharing your insights, Kayleigh.
Meet the Gate.
We hope you enjoyed this first instalment of 'Meet the Gate', keep your eyes peeled for our next interview with the Gate's Production Manager, Lindsay Cowan.
