Meet Award Winning NFTS Head of Location Sound, Judi Lee-Headman!

The National Film & Television School recently welcomed award-winning Production Sound Mixer Judi Lee-Headman as Head of our unique Location Sound Recording for Film and Television Diploma, the only course of its kind in the UK. Judi has been working in the industry for over 25 years and is a leading light in the world of location sound, one of only a handful of women at the very top level of sound mixing.  

Pioneering Judi joins with a proven track record of delivering the highest quality of location sound to world-class, award-winning productions. Her vast array of credits include high profile US and UK dramas such as Homeland, The Capture, SAS Rogue Heroes and she recently wrapped on Prime Video’s upcoming adaptation of Anansi Boys.

Judi combines her new role at the School alongside her current high-end television projects and has seen her career come full circle, having begun her journey into Sound as a student right here at the NFTS! Read on to find out how Judi has navigated the world of microphones and mixers, recent advancements within the industry and why there’s never been a better time to train in location sound.

Welcome back to the NFTS Judi! How would your younger self feel about all that you have achieved in your career since being a student here?

My younger self could never have imagined in her wildest dreams to have achieved so much. It’s been an amazing journey to be able to do something you love for a living.

You’ve worked on a long list of incredibly exciting productions. What still excites you about your role on set?   

My role as a production sound mixer on set is to use my creative experience the get the best results we can. Over the years I have worked on some amazing productions. What excites me about working on these shows? Sometimes it’s a place I haven’t been before or a subject I haven’t filmed before. Also what is exciting is getting to work with really talented directors and producers.

The demand for trained sound professionals is at an all-time high. How can the industry encourage and support new entrants to join? 

We can help new entrants by offering the best training and continuing support at the start of their careers. We have to manage expectations though: not every job will be a blockbuster movie!

What advice would you give to prospective applicants looking to enter the world of Location Sound Recording?

My advice to anyone starting in this industry is be prepared to work hard, it’s an amazing career and the possibilities are endless.

What qualities or experience are you looking for in applicants keen to study the course?

I’m looking for people who are passionate about the craft, and are willing to stick at it. Sound is such an important part of telling the story.

Finally, you’ve scaled the heights of your career – are there any projects you still dream of working on?  

As far as my career is concerned, I’m still climbing, I’m always learning and looking forward to the next challenge and production.

-

Last few places are remaining on the NFTS Location Sound Recording for Film and Television Diploma to start September 2023!

Find out more about this incredible course at our upcoming online Open Day.
29 June @ 13:00 - 14:00

Book free here

-

Scholarships available

Explore the course page: nfts.co.uk/location-sound-recording-film-and-television