This content was submitted by James Tocher
My name is James Tocher. I have been working as a freelance PSC sound recordist for the past four years, after completing three degrees relating to audio post-production. I realised production sound was a better fit for me. I invested in all my own kit and have been finding clients through online services and Facebook groups. I really want to take my career to the next level, but it is hard for me as I have Aspergers and don't really know who to talk to. I have worked on over 40 productions to date as a PSC sound recordist, one of which has won the Los Angeles Film Awards "Best Indie Short" award.
Have you benefited from any ScreenSkills support so far?
I have not benefited from ScreenSkills as of yet, but I intend to pursue their trainee and mentorship schemes.
What is the most remarkable moment or achievement of your career so far?
Working at Black Pride in 2021 on a drag queen documentary, being surrounded by and working with so many LGBT individuals who I can identify with (as someone who is pansexual and genderqueer) made me very happy and comfortable.
If you could give advice to someone interested in pursuing your job role or a career in the screen industries more generally, what would you say?
Don't do it my way - find a trainee scheme first! Otherwise you may end up pulling your hair out wondering why you aren't progressing quickly enough.