Today’s blog post is a first on our site – we have interviewed both the photographer and the actress of the same shoot. We wanted to find out how they found the studio and what they enjoy most about what they do. Eugene Doyen is a lecturer in Film Practice. He teaches filmmaking and screenwriting, focusing on storytelling across a range of media. Amy Coutts is an Australian actress who has previously trained at QUT, FTVSI, Impro Melbourne, The Second City and Impulse Company. She has 16 years of experience spread across theatre, film, voice over, corporate projects and commercials. Let’s see what these two talented people have been up to in the Copperdollar Studios, as well as see the photos taken, of course!
Thanks so much for your time, Eugene. First of all, what do you enjoy most about teaching filmmaking and screenwriting?
Teaching screenwriting is creative, so its constantly engaging and enjoyable.
And, in your opinion, what makes a good story?
A story where the audience can invest in the characters and share their experience.
What do you like most about the Copperdollar Studios and what would you say makes it different from other studios you’ve used?
With its brick walls, windows and natural light the hayloft a space has character rather than a flat white or matt black studio with artificial studio lighting. The room offers a sense of place. We didn’t need to bring any lighting which made filming quick and easy. The studio is in a very quiet area, and is south facing: both good for filming!
Find more from Eugene here – eugenedoyen.academia.edu
Thank you for your time, too, Amy! Those shots are beautiful. Can you tell us a little bit more about what you’ve worked on recently at the Copperdollar Studios?
I used the space for the purposes of self taping in order to market myself better with up-to-date footage that shows my skills and roles that I would be suitable for.
How did you hear about the studios?
I saw a post a few months back in the Brighton Actors Networking Facebook group!
What do you like most about the Copperdollar Studios and what would you say makes it different from other studios you’ve used?
To be honest I am still relatively new to Brighton (moved here from Australia back in June) so I haven’t worked in any other studios in Brighton, but I suppose I appreciated the affordable rate of hire offered for actors or performers. Self tapes are an essential part of marketing for actors today given that you can be considered for jobs in London and abroad without always needing to be in those locations, which is a wonderful thing. I need to get skilled at this aspect of my career and do this regularly but this can be quite expensive so an affordable space in a quiet area is extremely helpful.
What has been your most exciting role so far and why?
Back in Melbourne I was in a play called ‘Chapter Two’ by Neil Simon. It was the perfect role for me and I believe I gave my most truthful performance. I love theatre, especially American theatre.
What advice would you give to young actors trying to pursue their dream career?
Take care of your mental health and wellbeing as much as possible. I was once told by a great teacher that the character can be out of control but the actor shouldn’t be and I interpreted that to mean that stability in one’s own life is important. It’s tough to break into this profession and you will get many rejections so you have to take care of yourself to remain resilient in the face of this. I started meditating about 3-4 years ago and I wish I had started when I was 18. So meditation, hypnotherapy ( I know this works as I’ve done a lot and am now a trained hypnotherapist myself! 😊), regular exercise, enough sleep and good eating are just so vital. Boring maybe, but vital!
Where can we see more of your work?
Right now I’m mostly focusing my attention on the marketing and business side of things by networking and recording footage etc., but fingers crossed you will see me in a gritty two-hander in Brighton Fringe next year so watch this space! You can also find out more about what I’ve been doing down below:
Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/amyscooter29/
Spotlight – spotlight.com/2694-5640-2552
Starnow – https://www.starnow.co.uk/amycoutts3