Obsidian : A black volcanic glass which dissolves emotional block, brings clarity to the mind and clears confusion.
Obsidian Films - A Suffolk Production Company
Obsidian Films was founded in 2011 by Katy Sheppard an independent BAFTA award winning Producer / Director with nearly 20 years experience of the television broadcast industry, while producing special in-depth reports for Channel 4 News.
She specialises in powerful, emotional storytelling, making BRAVE observational documentaries that gets to the heart of contemporary issues in UK today. Trust with contributors shine through the honest, intimate and heartfelt content she captures and edits.
Ten years on, and following two maternity leaves, Obsidian Films is currently developing new a documentary mini-series and feature length film.
Katy Sheppard:
Producer / Director / Camera / Edit Producer
‘As a documentary Producer Director I have worked on subjects ranging from racism, dementia, mental health, domestic violence, alcoholism, and poverty. Current affairs, human rights, social issues, people’s heart-felt stories that can move issues up the social agenda and bring change. From 60 minutes on primetime to 6 minute in-depth news reports, my films are both observational and authored. Prior to working for Channel 4 News I worked for BBC and Channel 4 through award winning independent production companies.
I never shy away from tough emotional subjects, but what is really important is that they are approached collaboratively with individuals and communities. This inclusive, supportive approach is key to my work.
As a filmmaker part of my role is to supporting people to have their voice within the bigger narrative. It empowers those on the fringes to be heard – really heard – because often they have something really important to say.
This inclusive, supportive approach is key to my work, and is central to truthful, and authentic filmmaking with integrity.
Key Skills:
20 years’ experience broadcast and programme making for ITN, BBC and Channel 4
In 2007 I received BEST DOCUMENTARY BAFTA for my work as a shooting AP the film ‘Evicted’
16 years working as a Producer – researching stories, access negotiation, compliance issues.
Shooting Director filming observational documentaries. Currently KIT – Canon XFC300
Edit Producer. More recently working to script and edit produce films for broadcast. Trained in AVID