WORK AND PLAY SERIES : NINA CONSTABLE
Documentary Film Maker / Photographer
Nina believes in the power of film and storytelling, and has honed her knowledge and skills to specialise in conservation and social documentary. With an inquisitive and passionate nature, she travels extensively for her work to educate and inspire audiences to act.
Nina has a vivacious appetite for life in Cornwall, in the time between juggling filming, photo shoots, editing and writing, she escapes to the coastlines to de-stress, surfing, running and swimming.
To learn more about her amazing work with The Wildlife Trusts, AptART, Marine Megafauna Foundation and more, visit http://www.ninaconstable.co.uk/
An image by Nina Constable from her 'Meet the Fisherman' series
Why did you start crafting / making things?
I spent a large part of my childhood without a television so we were always encouraged to make and do. My mum used to buy these big sacks of clay and we would sit there for hours making strange shaped things. My sister was always amazing at making and definitely encouraged me. She had these string puppets at one point, and I remember making these elaborate set designs and then putting on a puppet show for our neighbours. When making is so ingrained in your childhood, it’s hard to not want to carry on. I love the process of making. Of having that first initial idea and then seeing it evolve, until finally you have something tangible at the end of it.
What does it mean to you?
Making films combines everything I love. It means everything to me.
Why are you self-employed?
Although it can be stressful, there is a freedom in looking ahead and not knowing exactly what I’ll be doing this time next year, the projects and stories that will emerge and the people I have yet to meet. That’s exciting. I also couldn’t imagine not being in control of my own hours, not being able to get outside when I need to.
What are you most scared of in your work?
When I press send on the very first rough cut to a client. I immediately feel very exposed.
What keeps you motivated?
The people I meet and wanting so much to do their story justice.
What has your work revealed to you about yourself?
My work has taught me a huge amount about my own capabilities, but it has challenged me too. I am still learning how to switch off from work when I need to, and to be more confident in my output. I have yet to make a film that I am completely happy with, there is always something I find that I think I could have done better.
Why would someone choose to live and work in Cornwall?
I wouldn’t say anyone should, but if they did I know they would love it. On long summer days when, even if you have a hectic schedule, you’re able to get in the sea afterwards, or even just look at it, I genuinely believe that’s good for your soul. In winter, the wild winter walks are exhilarating, and for those better at surfing than me, the winter swells. Because Cornwall is that little bit cut off from places like London and Bristol, I also think that it takes a certain type of person to enjoy living here. Because of that, there is a growing community of people making and creating for their living, which is amazing to see and be a part of.
How do you stay connected to the outdoors?
A lot of my film work focuses on Environmental Conservation which keeps me connected, but when I’m in full editing mode and I’m at my computer for days on end, that’s when I make extra effort to be physically connected; to surf and run and swim and walk.
How does the outdoors affect you?
Honestly, I think the outdoors fixes me.
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An image by Nina Constable from her 'Meet the Fisherman' series
Nina wears the Francli Studio #WatchCap in Shiraz.
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Photography by Jessica Ashely-Stokes and Nina Constable.