Ben Gates

I'm a hard working and fast learning individual that's always looking for their next challenge. I have skills that are essential to the film and television industry. I have years of experience operating cameras and operating external microphones as part of university film shoots. I always work as effectively and efficiently as possible to get the job done to the highest level of satisfaction.

Work Experience

The Whisky Trail

• The Whisky Trail is a whisky shop chain on the Royal Mile in Edinburgh. The chain comprises of a number of different whisky shops up and down the mile. Part of my role is to staff any of the stores when needed. Primarily, my role is to sell exclusive and rare whisky to customers, primarily tourists. This role has helped to expand my communication skills and knowlege of Scottish whisky. This role has also helped to heighten my skills in time management and customer care. As the shops are incredibly busy during the summer, managing multiple sales and communicating with multiple customers (who often don't speak English) at the same time has helped me to expand these skills. 

Editor/Producer/Writer 

Edinburgh Napier University

•  I worked as video editor, producer and secondary writer for Kade Bakers 'Men On Horses' film for Edinburgh Napier University. The project was originally seen as a live game show, which I would have provided graphics for, including a title sequence and lower thirds for the presenter and guests. However, due to circumstances outside of the production teams control, the project was changed to a documentary about statues in Edinburgh. The project was filmed in only a single day and I provided on set assistance as a producer on the film. As the film was written quickly due to the change in plans, I provided information about the statues the film would be covering. I also worked on the script and added a number of comedic moments to break up the documentary. During the editing process, I worked closely with the director to ensure a finished product that everyone was happy with. The film, which was premiered at the Everyman Cinema in Edinburgh, received a standing ovation. 

Sound Operator

Edinburgh Napier University

•  I worked closely with director Kaludia Dora Csikos as a sound operator and designer for the short film 'Across the Border'. The short film required extensive knowledge of the sound recording equipment I was using as well as developing a relationship with my fellow crew members. The film received incredibly positive reviews at the premiere and I received an A for the project. 

Links for both films available upon request

Bachelor of Arts (Television)

Edinburgh Napier University- Aug 2021 to May 2023

Certificate of Higher Education (HND Television)

 Edinburgh College -September 2019 to August 2021

Craigmount High School

August 2013- May 2019