What does it take to tell the story of world-class marine science in a way that connects with the next generation? When Cefas commissioned us to produce a series of careers films aimed at inspiring students from GCSE age and up, we knew this was an opportunity to create something special.
The brief was clear: showcase the breadth of careers within Cefas and break the myth that you need a PhD to work in science. Our job was to bring these roles to life, from the ship deck to the lab bench, through storytelling that was as accessible and engaging as it was visually compelling.
Visiting the Science
Filming took place across multiple Cefas sites in Weymouth, Lowestoft, and on board the RV Endeavour, the Cefas research vessel. This meant detailed scheduling, working around active labs and field operations, and adapting on the go. The logistics were complex, but our team thrives in that environment. We worked closely with Cefas’s communications and science teams to ensure every shoot day ran smoothly and every moment captured told a part of the bigger story.
Building Trust, Capturing Truth
One of the most rewarding aspects of this project was the time we spent with the scientists themselves. Many were not used to being in front of the camera, so our background as journalists came into play. We created a safe, relaxed space for interviews, helping contributors feel comfortable and confident. It’s this trust that allowed us to capture thoughtful, authentic interviews — the kind that resonate with audiences and deliver on key messages without feeling scripted.
Filming the Detail
We took care to film more than just talking heads. Whether it was close-up shots of lab work, drone footage over stunning coastal research stations, or action sequences on board the Endeavour, every frame was crafted to tell a story. Our goal was to show not just what these scientists do, but why it matters — and to make sure students could picture themselves in these roles.
Style Meets Substance
Working with the Cefas education team, we integrated their branding into the visual identity of the series. Our in-house animator created a dynamic intro sequence and on-brand transitions that gave the films a professional, consistent feel. These broadcast-quality touches made the series feel polished and purpose-driven, helping it stand out across platforms and appeal to a younger audience.
Science Communication Is What We Do
We’ve built a strong reputation in science communication, having worked with leading institutions including Oxford University, Kingston University, The Royal Observatory, and Cefas. Our ability to turn complex scientific concepts into compelling, audience-friendly content is what sets us apart. We are not scientists or marine biologists — and that’s our superpower. Our journalistic and storytelling backgrounds give us the tools to ask the right questions, simplify without dumbing down, and ensure that the science is never compromised, while the content remains accessible and engaging. That balance is the key to successful science communication.
A Project We Loved
This project was an absolute joy to work on. From meeting passionate scientists to capturing the intricate details of their work, we loved every moment of bringing these stories to life. At Fieldcraft Studios, we believe that science communication should be engaging, accessible and full of humanity — and this series allowed us to do just that. We’re proud to have played a part in inspiring the next generation of scientists and showcasing the vital work Cefas does to protect and understand our marine environment.
