Meet the Team | Samuel Keene
Today we’re chatting with Samuel Keene about his journey from the machine room to coding AI solutions, and why he thinks the best way to reset is to put the screens away and head to the coast.
Was there a specific spark that made you realise you wanted to work in post-production?
This would probably be my Media Studies teacher during secondary school, a very fun teacher who was very creative. I don’t remember a specific moment where the spark occurred, but I found myself editing in my spare time, exploring software and teaching myself for enjoyment. This kind of solidified my decision to try and get into the industry when it came to figuring out what I wanted to do with my life!
How did you land your first “real” job in the industry, and what was the most valuable lesson you learnt in those early days?
I landed my first job at Storm Post Production. I essentially was able to get one day of work experience organised as my Dad had a friend who knew the boss. They decided to take a chance and get me in for one day, which then turned into a week, then a few weeks, then employment as a runner and helping in the machine room.
I walked into the work experience initially thinking I knew everything about editing, which I think is a natural reaction to have fresh out of university. The most valuable lesson I learnt is accepting that I didn’t really know anything, having the willingness to adjust that view of yourself and use that as motivation to learn from the people around you in order to make progression.
What was your first “big” project or credit, and what do you remember most about that experience?
My first big project was at first just an exploration of AI and its use to create code based on my own ideas. Most of the ideas would die, due to them not being realistic or improving the current workflow. However, there was one that I had been working on across a few weeks. This code could grab any video or audio file and then translate and create a transcription file, all using a free AI model embedded into the code.
A project then came in which required Arabic translation and transcription. Due to a tight budget, they did not want to pay for a translator to go through hours of footage. This is where the project I had already been working on went straight into application. What I remember most is feeling proud. Something I had created was helping a client and saving everyone money.
Beyond the technical skills, what “soft skills” do you think are most essential for your role?
Confidence. I think it is extremely important to feel confident in yourself, your own knowledge and what you are doing in that moment at work. If you make a mistake, I think it is super important to own it. I could even say that making mistakes could be as important, as this sometimes is the best and only way to learn.
Do you have a work “quality of life” hack or a tip that you swear by?
Utilising as many different tools around you. My main tool I use every single day, be it work or personal, is Large Language Models (LLMs). Specifically ChatGPT, Claude and Gemini. I use these for coding, debugging problems and getting to information fast. It is important to trust but verify these tools, however.
What part of your role gives you the most satisfaction?
Learning. I don’t think there will ever be a day where I am not learning in this role. Whether it’s something new about a particular software, or being a sponge and learning off others.
What was it about The Finish Line’s reputation or ethos that made you want to join the team?
The vision the company has and wanting to be at the pulse of technology.
Where do you see your role or the industry evolving over the next few years?
Technology is moving so fast these days. I personally think the winners in the industry will be the ones always keeping at the pulse of various technologies that are appearing.
AI is a term in this industry which I think splits opinion. People worry it will take jobs. After going to a few AI conferences related to post-production, one saying always stands out to me: “AI won’t take your job, but someone who knows how to use it will.” I think we need to embrace the technology within the industry but give it the correct application.
When the systems are off, how do you hit the “reset” button?
The reset button for me is definitely going Sea fishing. It is the best way to keep me off my phone and just embrace nature. Being in an industry which is very screen focused, I think the best reset I can give myself is no screens at all! Also nice if I catch dinner!
If you could give one piece of advice to someone trying to break into the industry today, what would it be?
I think the best way to show willingness is to reach out to as many post houses as possible seeing if it’s possible to do some FOC work experience. I tried to work my absolute socks off and show I am really eager while earning nothing. I think for me this went a long way and eventually got me a job. If you do get any opportunity to get yourself into a post house to do some shadowing/running, ask questions, be curious and remember: no question is a stupid question.