SCHROM x Yacht Club, a live-action, tabletop and postproduction company, has signed U.K.-based director Helen Downing to its roster for U.S. representation.
Downing has directed major campaigns for brands like Sainsbury’s and M&S, Domino’s, Progresso, and Blue Apron. Her wide ranging background spans culinary series, music videos and performances, along with branded content. Prior to joining SCHROM x Yacht Club, Downing was most recently repped in the U.S. by Station Film.
Andrew Greenberg, head of production, SCHROM x Yacht Club, said, “We were really drawn to Helen’s unique approach that blends a variety of passions and influences that make her a very versatile director. Her work blends food with narrative storytelling in a way that is beautiful and feels effortless. Her authenticity shines through in her work.”
Partner and exec producer Joe DePasquale added, “Helen’s ability to capture the beauty in what is being depicted–the food, people and environments–is matched by an attention to storytelling and that seamless interweaving of the two really sets her apart. She brings together the best of both worlds, and her honest and thoughtful approach aligns perfectly with our values at SCHROM x Yacht Club. We’re excited for the creative partnership ahead.”
Downing’s career began in TV where she worked as a multi-camera director on shows such as “The Big Breakfast,” “Big Brother,” “SM:TV” and “CD:UK.” She went on to film major artists at national and international venues, capturing concerts for Blur, Oasis, Foo Fighters, Red Hot Chili Peppers and Gorillaz. Harnessing her strong passion for both food and the countryside, she collaborated closely with Jamie Oliver directing the series “Jamie at Home.” Downing’s advertising work celebrates the joy of friends and family, often centered around the shared experience of sharing and preparing food. Her work is both uniquely atmospheric and genuinely warm. Music is an enduring influence, and plays an integral part in her approach to campaigns.
“As a director, I want to impart a feeling and a sense of backstory that really connects audiences to tactile elements of life–music, food, and people’s relationship to their environments. When those work harmoniously you can really be swept up in the experience,” explained Downing.
“When it comes to finding the right collaborative partners, I immediately appreciated the depth of experience that SCHROM x Yacht Club have in projects where food is character or takes a center stage,” continued Downing. “But equally important to experience is the way they operate in the world: with directness and approachability that clients trust and that resonates with what I value in relationships.”
