Sarah Ball: Director
In your own words, briefly describe your job.
''I direct a stopframe model animation series (Bob The Builder) and am involved in all aspects of the production - directing the voice over artists, cutting the dialogue with the editor, seeing the show through the studio with a crew of four animators then fine cutting the picture and dubbing and online editing it.''
How did you get into the industry?
''I got into the industry though lots of pestering! I did an animation degree then went on to the National Film and Television School. I started out model making and animating but carried on making my own films in my spare time and eventually got a break directing.''
What advice would you give to someone whose career needed a kick-start?
''Give your all and believe in yourself! People always respect hard workers and eventually you'll get recognised.''
What advice would you give to someone wanting to broaden the range of work they are getting?
''Some more advice - experience is much more important than money.''
What impact will developments in New Media technology have on your career?
''People think that eventually all 3D animation will be done on computers and there won't be a need to use puppets but I think there's room for both. Model animation is still very much a craft-based industry with deep traditions and although computer animation is getting more and more impressive, you can't beat being able to pick a character up or walk round it on a set. There will probably come a time when we won't shoot animation on film, but we'll hold out till the bitter end as film is so much more forgiving!''
How do you balance the demands of your professional life and your personal life?
''Balancing the demands of your personal and professional life is difficult! Work tends to take over and I have to remind myself there's a world out there! I'd recommend not taking work home with you (she says stuffing a load of scripts in her bag!)''
