It makes sense for a lot of creative professionals to see themselves as builders or architects. Essentially, that is what we are doing: building narratives, telling stories, working with structures and raw materials to make something greater. This is the case of many, as it is of Isaac Bergadà.
At the tender age of 14, Isaac had the chance to enter an editing room and understand the processes behind building a narrative through cuts and footage. As technical as the process may be, Isaac loves seeing each project as a chance to tell a unique story. He is now working for a range of different clients, from sports brands to NatGeo, focused on telling all those beautiful stories he loves the most.
For this Member Spotlight, we are learning more about Isaac an his journey into the industry as an incredibly enthusiastic freelance video editor.
How did you get into the industry?
Well, quite a few years ago, I was 14 years old. And I had the opportunity to enter an editing room at that time, where making a simple edit cut was already a very thoughtful and careful process. When I met those people who were gradually polishing a shapeless piece I realised that all that work soon became a narrative of humor, drama, or tears. For me it was a discovery to possess that wonderful gift. Since then, every day I try not to miss the opportunity to say something beyond editing.
Where are you based now and who do you work for?
I’m based in Barcelona, Catalonia. Highly creative city with a good community social awareness & very near to my favourite hobbies: outdoor sports. In my case, it’s very common that I don’t have permission to talk about projects before premieres. Currently I’m finishing two productions, one for a famous sports trademark & second for a global fashion hairdresser. And I’m just starting a new project for the next documentary for NatGeo.
If you weren’t in your current industry, what would you be doing?
I’ve always liked to build something, which is why I’ve always been called an “inventor”. So I’m similar to an architect, but more affordable. I also make crafts with wooden furniture and I would also like to write poems, though for now, I just mix words. I would also like to be a photographer, always with my camera at ready.
Can you explain your creative process?
Always start with the investigation part, watching a lot of new references, searching for information and watching the entirety of the project footage. After that, the brain always needs some time to process all the information, but I soon start with the construction of narrative, which requires time, time & more time. And before finishing the project, I always need to re-ask for discarded material, which is why my work name is LostCuts. ;)
I like very much to "reset" with every project and approach them in new ways. I can remain very attentive with a broad point of view on the rest of team members and learn from all of them every day.
How would you describe your style?
Well, it’s difficult to describe it generally with all the different projects that I did. In Neandertales, my edit style was very dynamic with a lot of information on every shoot, every word & every sound. It's entertainment law.
But the edits I like the most are those moments where the viewer is immersed in the drama and does not notice all the image cuts. I really love that.
Which individuals do you gain inspiration from? Do you have any heroes in the industry?
The classics are always a good source of inspiration, all of them are usable for great inspiration tricks. But If I had to select one film I'd say The Hudsucker Proxy (1994) for the simplicity and ‘savoir faire’ and continuous drama twists.
If you had to pick one ideal client/employer, who would that be and why?
There isn't just one ideal, all of them are ideal, though different in their own ways. These differences and details are most highly and richly inspirational for me. I'll take this occasion to thank them all for all those years of mutual confidence and all the creative works we did together.
How has technology affected the way you work?
Entirely. Every new technology can be assimilated for doing our work most efficiently and consequently the time to think about the construction of histories and narratives increases.
What’s your secret to staying inspired and motivated?
I try to remain immersed in a natural environment three or four times a week. Look at the horizon at sunrise at the sea or on top of the mountains. I like to do outdoor sports on my own. It helps me motivate myself to do a little more, overcome my own limits and do more and more.
What’s the work achievement you’re most proud of?
Each and every one of them.
How do you recharge away from the office?
Surf, Paddle surf, mountain biking & freeride skiing are the best to ‘reset’ my brain. And going to exhibitions of art, music and photography is the best way to get new inspirational inputs. And post-Covid, travel. Very much travel.
What is one tip for other aspiring creatives looking for work?
Everybody is accessible, you just need to knock at the right door. You don't need to be going fast, but you definitely need to keep going.
What is the one thing that you would change about the industry?
It is very difficult to be able to give young people a chance. And at the same time I would love productions to be more regular throughout the year and with not so many intermittencies.
Any websites, books or resources you would recommend?
An inspirational comic: “EXIT STAGE LEFT: The snagglepuss chronicles”. A transmedia movement: Kiss the ground
