Laura Seears

SAE London Film Production alumna Laura Seears has built a thriving career as a steadicam operator, working across live performance, film, music and commercial productions for some of the UK’s most recognisable artists and brands.

Graduating in 2015, Laura wasted no time in carving out her path within the film industry. Just months after completing her studies, she undertook the Gold Tiffen Steadicam Workshop – a pivotal moment that set the direction for her career. Rather than progressing through traditional camera department roles, she made the bold decision to specialise early, stepping directly into steadicam operating while assisting on higher-end productions to learn from experienced professionals.

Her early years were spent balancing short films, music videos and assistant roles, gaining exposure to different visual styles and production environments. That varied foundation proved invaluable, allowing Laura to develop a confident, adaptable operating style that has since seen her work on more than 80 productions.

Today, Laura’s credits span comedy specials, feature films, music videos and large-scale commercial work. Highlights include live shoots with James Acaster and Steve-O, music videos such as Cat Burns’ People Pleaser, and cinematic releases like Holloway. She has collaborated with respected production companies including Turtle Canyon Media, Somesuch and Aldgate Pictures, and continues to work closely with directors of photography across a wide range of projects.

While primarily based in London, Laura values the diversity of her role – moving seamlessly between large crews and smaller, more intimate productions. Nearly a decade into her career, she is proud not only of the projects she has worked on, but of sustaining a long-term career within a highly specialised field.

Laura credits SAE with introducing her to steadicam and providing the hands-on environment needed to experiment, practise and build confidence before stepping onto professional sets. She notes that studying at SAE gives students the opportunity to explore different pathways – from scriptwriting and production management to camera operating – making it an ideal time to discover what truly suits each individual.

Her advice to future SAE students:
“The most important thing you can do is focus on how you build your reputation early. Be reliable, be pleasant to work with, turn up on time, and deliver what you promise […] It takes time to establish yourself, and there’ll be quiet periods, but if you keep showing up and keep improving, the work does come.”

Study FILM production at SAE

Whether at Leamington Spa, London, Glasgow,  Liverpool or Leeds, aspiring film makers will be able to elevate their ambitions with visual media through our Film Production degree.

Get to grips with essential technical film production skills and theoretical knowledge to help you launch a successful career.

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