Morgan Smith

Hi Morgan! What is your background, what were you doing before joining the Production Training Scheme?

My working background is in hospitality. I was a Sous Chef before changing careers and coming to DNEG for my first VFX role.

Why did you decide to apply for the programme?

I applied for the trainee scheme firstly because, come on – how cool is it to say you’ve worked on a film or TV show?! Secondly, and more seriously, I personally do not thrive when I am too comfortable in any scenario and thought a new career in a completely different industry would allow me to learn new ways of thinking, and (being the perfect balance between technical and creative) VFX production would be a great environment for that!

How would you describe the programme in three words?

Collaborative. Educational. Personable.

What is your favourite memory during the programme?

Tough question! So many good memories! My favourite memories have got to be chatting with the trainees and mentors about their experiences and cultures, what shows they liked, what games they played, what their backgrounds were, what ambitions they had… So, in short, making friends!

What did you enjoy most about the work you were tasked with during the programme?

Despite the whole experience being great fun, by far the most enjoyable aspect of the trainee scheme was working with the other trainees, tackling tasks and solving problems together. Working with and learning alongside so many talented and intelligent people has been such a pleasure.

What was the most challenging task you faced in the programme and how did you tackle it?

I personally found talking in front of many people at once (even over Zoom) quite challenging as I had never really done it before. I chose to embrace the discomfort and asked as many questions as I could, gradually becoming more confident. Listening to many of the other trainees talk about similar challenges was also inspiring and helped a lot.

One thing you learnt about yourself while doing the programme?

During the scheme I learned that I fundamentally enjoy learning how things work. What happens in the background? Why is something done in that order, in that way?

Really developing an understanding for processes and systems in the VFX pipeline has been something I have thoroughly enjoyed.

How did your trainers and mentors support your learning and growth?

Our mentors were excellent on the trainee scheme, and continue to provide support for anyone who needs or wants it. The scheme was thoughtfully structured to have both breadth and depth with interactive sessions and engaging presentations from industry experts.

What are your future ambitions for your career in Production?

One of my long-term ambitions is to adapt my favourite book into a film/series some day. On a more tangible note, one of my short-term ambitions is to discover how I can improve the efficiency of my role – possibly looking into automating some day-to-day tasks.

What would be your advice to future Production trainees?

Just say yes! Take all the opportunities that come your way and show your value to your colleagues! Don’t hide away, and don’t be afraid to make mistakes. Trust the process and fail forward.

Last question! Finish this sentence: DNEG is…

the place to be.

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