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Meet Romaine Foster

Lighting Technician

Romaine's job title is Company Director at Set Pod Lighting

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What I do

I provide specific lighting to create the look or atmosphere my client wants. This can be for anyone, from fashion shoots, music videos and films, to international commercials.

A professional lighting set up for filming.

Hear more about Romaine's role by watching the video below...

How I became a technician

I came to the UK when I was 10 years old. I found school really hard, and I didn’t knuckle down as much as I should have done and so, when I went to college, that was my last chance to make something of myself.

How I became a technician

I loved fixing things when I was younger, and at 16 my dream was to drive around to people’s houses in my van fixing the lighting in their houses. So I decided to study electrical installation for two-and-a-half years, then I worked on a building site for a year. During that time, I was introduced to a guy who worked in the film industry, and that’s how I changed careers.

How I became a technician

While you can study electrical installation to become a Lighting Technician, you can’t really study the actual job, as it is just so hands-on. Experience is key. Once you learn the equipment and how to handle it, you understand what you are doing.

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A typical day in my
working life

There really is no such thing as a typical day! I have worked on a huge variety of shoots, from working in fashion with the likes of Gucci and Victoria’s Secret, to commercials with M&S, McDonalds, and Adidas. I have also worked on large film sets, including Marvel and Disney productions.

A typical day in my
working life

Depending on who the Head of Department is, they will tell you exactly where they want the lighting to create the look they want. I think of it as a bit like Lego – you are always building things.

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My career progressed because I saw the opportunity and took it!
This role involves meeting new people, and every day is different.

A surprising fact about my job

I was a boxer before I started in the film industry. I still train and do sports.

A little more about
my everyday role

What I love most about my job

I have been to places that I thought I would never go to. For the Queen’s Jubilee, I did a BBC programme called The Crown, and I was up close to the jewels! There are also lots of travel opportunities. I recently did a fashion shoot in Paris. One minute you might be in central London and the next in Liverpool or Paris or Milan.

The most exciting thing I’ve achieved so far in my job

When I first started, it was exciting seeing all the celebrities. But now, seeing an empty room grow into a massive production is really exciting. For me, it’s about being part of something that is bigger than you.

The next steps in my career journey

I have started a lighting company, which is something I never thought I would do. Hopefully, I will build on what I have started and in five years’ time it will have grown.

The advice I'd give to
someone younger

Don’t be scared to try different things. Put yourself in a situation that you would normally say no to, and don’t feel like everyone is against you.

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