Tell us a bit about your organization and what your specialty is in the film and video space.

Nature Custom Media combines the high editorial standards of the Nature science journal with compelling narrative-driven storytelling.

As Chief Editor of custom (branded) video, I’m responsible for overseeing the entire production process – from concept development to producing, directing, editing, and script writing to ensure the final video meets both scientific and creative excellence.

What is your organization’s ethos and how does it set you apart from industry competitors?

We believe scientific achievements deserve to be celebrated and shared widely. Video and animation are among the most powerful tools we have to inform, educate and inspire both the global scientific community and the public.

Our team consists of experienced video professionals who specialize in translating complex science ideas into visually engaging stories. Clients benefit not only from the credibility of Nature Portfolio, but also from the opportunity to connect with Nature’s global scientific community.

How can people join or learn more about what you do?

Please subscribe to our YouTube channel.

Tell us about your Telly Award winning piece. What’s the story behind it?

This project wasn’t just a fascinating science story, it was a truly global collaboration to bring this video to life. Sponsored by MGI Tech, based in Shenzhen, China, the video was filmed on location in Cape Town and Durban, South Africa. Internally, it was a joint effort between our teams in China, the UK, and the USA.

Creatively, we felt the most impactful approach was to blend interviews with researchers leading the study and the participants themselves. This allowed us to showcase MGI’s technology, while adding emotional depth and human connection. Scientific concepts and data were brought to life through animations, and of course, we couldn’t resist incorporating some stunning drone footage to elevate the visual storytelling.

What are you most proud of about this piece? What was your biggest challenge during production and how did you solve it?

Bringing this video to life was a truly global effort. We had people flying in from around the world to support the multi-day shoot, and we navigated complex patient confidentiality requirements throughout the process. In the end, we successfully met all of our objectives, as well as those of our client, delivering a final video that reflected both the scientific significance and collaborative spirit behind the project.

Do you have any advice to other filmmakers based on your career or your team’s approach to work?

Collaboration is essential in branded video production. While clients often look to you for expertise and guidance, it’s important to set aside personal preferences and focus on what best serves the client’s goal and the target audience.

Can you share a behind the scenes story or fun fact about the making of your piece?

One of our interviewees made a six-hour round trip just to take part in the filming. He was deeply motivated by the opportunity to personally thank the researchers for their work and to offer hope to others living with the condition.

Tell us about the most memorable response you got from this work.

Our videos often highlight researchers and studies that might otherwise go unnoticed. One of my favorite comments came from a viewer who said they never heard of elite controllers before. It made them realize just how many scientists are working on research to improve lives and gave them hope for humanity.

Complete this sentence: ‘Great video storytelling is…’

… something that connects with viewers on an emotional level, creating a lasting impact.