Life behind the lens has sparked my imagination

Dubai: The confidence of the TV director is unmistakably etched on her face.

Emirati Nahla Al Fahd hates the routine of ordinary work. Media on the other hand, has the tools to engage her imagination.

"Media unleashes my imagination to constantly come up with new thoughts and actually helps me as a person," she said.

Al Fahd is the holder of a Higher National Diploma in Media Marketing and Advertising obtained from Dubai Polytechnic. Prior to that she got a degree in Communication Technology from Dubai Women's College.

"I actually had an holistic introduction to photography, TV, radio, journalism and everything relating to media; however I preferred to specialise in TV.

"Right after my graduation in 2000 I joined Artistic Group Studios where I came face to face with everyday TV techniques.

"I also got extensive courses in filmmaking, lighting, cinematic direction and budgeting at Brighton University in the UK."

She started her directing career in 2002.

"I immediately felt the trust of clients and most importantly my work got recognised locally and in other Arab countries," she said

Al Fahd has directed a number of video clips, commercials, documentaries and promotional films

"Despite focusing on many TV aspects, I have observed that most people see me as a video clip director. Maybe it is because the concept is loved by all ages, but as a director I dislike to be categorised in one particular role."

Perspective

At the pre-production stage, Al Fahd debates suggested ideas with her team.

"This stage usually consumes two weeks to one month as the budget is set," she said.

"I also get to know the whole idea from my client's perspective. Not to mention selecting accessible locations."

She admits that the procedures are normally long and irritating but the joy of success tops them all.

"A birth of excellent work is undoubtedly stressful but the prolific outcome is always rewarding," she said.

Al Fahd established her company, Beyond Studios, in 2007 in Media City.

"Being a producer and director made me establish my own company in order to build my own signature style," she said.

She admits she has an adventurous spirit with a particular passion for travel.

"I like Italy the most probably due to its vintage design and ancient sites.

"The flavour of travelling is really matchless especially if it comes after non-stop work. For example I have been busy in the last two months directing a number of video clips in different locations in Beirut.

Vision

"Directing is a career that needs vision, creation and patience and in order to create a signature work you have to have a hard-working team who is completely devoted to their work. "

"After all if you love your work, your work will return the same amount of love back to you."

Asked about the directors she values the most, she replied: "I like the directing style of Lebanese directors Layla Kan'an and Nadeen Labaki. Both are clever to show their work with sincere feelings."

She also admires the intelligent perspective of Titanic and Avatar director James Cameron.

"I stand up and applaud such creativity which is seldom seen nowadays."