Emily Gibson
How did your life or career change since becoming a recipient?
I was really struggling before becoming a recipient. I had managed to find a way into the film industry as a PA and then worked in craft services for a while. Camera department was always my goal, but I couldn't figure out how to break in. I didn't have the money, network, or skills to justify entering the union, but I had no idea how to get those! I would try talking to people on set, but I was also in the chaos of my own job. I was completely desperate! A couple months before I received the opportunity, I told my crafty boss that when our next 12 week movie wrapped I wouldn't continue on the next one, because I had to figure out how to work in camera. Two weeks after wrapping that movie, I found out I got it! Whew! Excluding Covid times and the strike, I really haven't stopped working since August 2019!
What did it mean to you to receive this opportunity?
I applied 3 times before receiving the opportunity. I was feeling completely defeated. So when I received it, it felt more than just a cool opportunity. It felt like an acknowledgment of all the work I had done up to that point. It felt like someone decided I was worthy of being taught and invested in. I can't put into words how much I needed that.
What types of projects have you been on and what are you looking forward to doing in the future?
I've worked on a lot of TV shows and movies. I continued with CW's Legacies (the production which the opportunity tied me to) for the rest of the season and the following season. I ended up moving to Loader after my second season with Legacies and did Staircase (HBO), Friend of the Family (Paramount), Pain Hustlers (Netflix), and Electric State (Netflix). I've been able to meet so many people, and I'm excited to grow more in the department. I love loading, and I love being able to meet and learn from so many awesome people.
What was something you learned that stood out and maybe you use to this day?
I could go on and on about all the technical and professional things I've learned, but I would say the biggest lesson I've taken from SJO is if you're good to people, they will be good to you. The opportunity exists because of who Sarah was and what she brought to a set with her skill set and personality.
Tell us a little about Sarah Jones and the importance of Safety on Set
I was not fortunate enough to meet Sarah, but I feel deeply tied to her. Not only has she had an active role in my career, but whenever people ask me about my journey into camera department, I am given the unique opportunity to talk about her legacy. My story is now woven into hers. I cannot talk about any of my success without remembering and honoring her and I find that incredibly special. It's been almost 5 years since I received this opportunity and at this point people younger than me are entering the industry and asking for my story. In telling them my story, I also get to tell them hers. The best moments have been when I've been sharing my story with someone and they excitedly tell me their own about knowing and working with Sarah. In that way, I get to learn a little more about her.
As a recipient I feel emboldened and empowered to speak up when I see something unsafe happening. Whether it is rigging a process trailer or preparing for a stunt, safety is always my first priority. I think when I was younger I would tell myself things like "oh I'm too far down the chain to say anything," but now I take it as my personal duty to make sure we are all being safe.
I truly cannot put into word the tremendous honor it has been to carry her name with me.