A selection of news graphics made showing the process of HSIB Maternity investigations for a Channel 4 News report, and HSIB’s performance. These are always tricky graphics to make, as the subject is obviously hugely sensitive, and the statistics need to be clear but engaging. Striking the right visual tone for a news report on a serious subject is one of the biggest challenges. There were also photo montage sequences for the report showing the case study, but the two examples below required the most thought from me. Reporter Victoria McDonald, produced by Gracie Jerome. Three day project.
UK hedgerow wildlife in decline
A graphic for a Channel 4 News report into the decline of hedgerows across the UK, and the drastic effect this has had on the biodiversity of the countryside. I tried to create a woodcut style effect to these graphics, to give it an illustrative, rustic feeling. I kept the animations to each element simple as it is a lot to visually digest in a news report!
Two day project. Reporter Alex Thomson, produced by Rachel Seifert and Louise Turner.
Fox hunting in the UK
I was asked to make a graphic for a Channel 4 News report into alleged illegal activity in fox hunting in the UK. This one went through a number versions, until we finally ended up with the graphic below. My early drafts were far more gory – I wanted to reflect that hunting is a blood sport. I live in the countryside, surrounded by paddocks and stables, and I love the spectacle of equestrianism. But the ritualised nature of hunting is something I can’t support. You may disagree and that’s fine – lots of my neighbours do. I realise foxes need to be controlled, I just think there’s more humane ways of doing it than with packs of dogs. Still, the bright red coats of the hunters and the distinct features of a fox make for a striking graphic.
Reporter Alex Thomson, produced by Rachel Seifert and Louise Turner. Two day project.
Disappearing ice
I was asked to produce a map illustrating the effects of climate change on the Gulf of St Lawrence and the Magdalen Islands, off Canada’s east coast. Global warming is having a dramatic effect on Harp seals and other marine life in that area. It was tricky timing the animation to make it look as dramatic as possible but also keep it as accurate as possible. Broadcast on 13th April 2023 by Channel 4 News, produced by Tilly Cowan and Louise Turner.
“Vanished” series branding
The quick turnaround documentary I worked on back in February was recommissioned by Channel 5 as a four part series. ITN Productions asked me to remake the graphics. The good news was I had a bit more time to work on the titles, but the bad news was I wasn’t allowed to use the strong images I could use of the missing lady in the first job, as with this branding, no one could be recognisable. I was told to give it a glassy, glossy feel, and keep it dark blue, to suggest police colours. And then given a really clumsy subtitle to fit in at the last minute. Hey, that’s the job – keep your client happy! Two weeks of work: titles, name supers, content graphics, set panel design.
Diesel car emissions
A graphic for a Channel 4 News report on a study by the ICCT revealing toxic emissions from diesel car engines have been underestimated by car manufacturers. Reporter Alex Thomson, produced by Louise Turner and Tilly Cowan. Broadcast 22 March 2023. Two day project.
UK plant life in decline
A graphic illustrating the decline in some species of plant life over the last seventy years across the UK. For Channel 4 News, broadcast on Tuesday 7th March 2023. Reporter Alex Thomson. Produced by Louise Turner and Rachel Seifert. Two day project.
“Vanished” documentary branding
I was asked to brand a documentary programme for ITN Productions at extremely short notice last week. I had to create a set of titles, break bumpers, promotional slates, timeline explainer graphics, automated name supers, and dress a set with imagery all within two and a half days. Sometimes these quick commissions can be fun, but given the subject matter, this one was tough. The programme was broadcast on Channel 5 on 10th February 2023. Here’s a couple of examples of what I did, which given the time constraints, I was pleased with.
Griff’s Knees 2022 Showreel
Here’s a selection of the best of my 2022 work for ITN’s Channel 4 News and 5 News. Thanks to all the people who’ve helped me along the way.
Global Biodiversity crisis
A new report has said global biodiversity has decline by 69% since 1970. Channel 4 News graphic, produced by Rachel Seifert and Louise Turner, reporter Alex Thomson. 3 day project.
Griff's Knees 