The Rewarding Nature of Production with Sarah Maerz
VFX producer Sarah Maerz began her career at Lucky Cat in Soho, where she cut her teeth as a runner. Originally drawn to colour grading, she quickly realised her passion lay in the fast-paced, people-focused world of production. After shadowing producers and learning the art of the craft, she officially stepped into production and quickly found her stride.
From there, Sarah joined Absolute as a production assistant, contributing to major campaigns for New Balance, Ferrari and Candy Crush – the latter of which remains a career highlight that solidified her love for high-end CG and visual effects.
After a year in Australia, where she worked with an animation studio in Brisbane, Sarah returned to London to join Harbor, where she’s continued to grow her craft. Most recent project highlights include ‘The Fatal Question’ for StreetDoctors, a project gaining industry recognition and that left a lasting impact on her.
Known for her calm, collected producing style, Sarah thrives on collaboration and creativity. With a love for art and design, she brings a strong visual sensibility to every project, adeptly imagining how scripts will come to life on screen.
What she loves most is the dynamic nature of production, from building relationships and travelling for shoots, to seeing projects evolve from concept to finished film. Driven by the challenge of large-scale CG jobs, Sarah finds satisfaction in seeing a final, highly-crafted piece that makes her genuinely proud.
Below Sarah chats with LBB to discuss finding her way into the world of production, her early work for Candy Crush, and why those starting their careers in the industry should never be afraid to start small.
LBB> What first attracted you to production?
Sarah> It was the creative work that pulled me in. Growing up I always admired music videos in particular and I just knew I wanted to be part of that world. I originally wanted to be a colourist but found my way into the world of production and immediately loved it. It’s such a people-driven space, which makes every day different and fun.
LBB> What was your first role in the production world and how did this experience influence how you think about production and how you grew your career?
Sarah> I started out at a small boutique post house in Soho and was lucky enough to shadow the producers whenever things were quiet. When a temp production role came up, I managed to slide my way in.
However, just a few weeks later we went into lockdown and I found myself the only working producer at the time! It really pushed me to step up and find my confidence. Nothing caught fire, so I’d say I did ok?!
LBB> Looking back to the beginning of your career, can you tell us about a production you were involved in where you really had to dig deep and that really helped you to grow as a producer?
Sarah> I got the chance to produce a three-part campaign for Candy Crush, which was super CGI-heavy, full of CG assets, simulations, all that fun stuff. I’d worked on smaller VFX projects before, but this was my first proper introduction into the world of CG, and it kicked off my love for it.
It definitely had its challenges; like a lot of VFX projects, we were creating things that don’t actually exist. A sea of candies? There’s no real world reference for that. So there were lots of different opinions on how it should look and feel. But honestly, that was also the fun part.
We had the creative freedom to just play around and make something that looked great, even if it made absolutely no sense in terms of physics.
LBB> A good producer should be able to produce for any medium, from film to events to digital experience. Do you agree or disagree with this statement? Why/why not?
Sarah> To some extent, yes. There are so many transferable skills that come with being a producer.
The industry’s constantly evolving, so you’re always learning something new. As long as you have curiosity and an eager attitude, I don’t see why you couldn’t adapt to different mediums.
LBB> What’s your favourite thing about production and why?
Sarah> I love the social side of production. You get to meet so many interesting, creative people from all walks of life. There’s a real sense of shared passion that makes the job so rewarding.
LBB> How has production changed since you started your career?
Sarah> There are a lot more multi-faceted creatives around these days as the industry continues to shift. We’re working with a lot of young, emerging talent at Harbor who are bringing their own stamp to the industry. It’s really inspiring to see. There’s definitely a fresh energy around. People are more open and more collaborative than ever.
LBB> What’s stayed the same?
Sarah> The pace! No matter how much the industry changes, we’re still racing against tight deadlines and thinking on our feet! But that rush is part of what makes it so exciting.
LBB> What do you think is the key to being an effective producer – and is it something that's innate or something that can be learned?
Sarah> You’ve got to stay cool, calm, and collected. A producer once told me to be a swan: Look graceful on the surface, even if you’re paddling like mad underneath. Some people might be naturally organised or calm under pressure, but I think a lot of it can be learned through experience and exposure.
LBB> Which production project from across your career are you most proud of and why?
Sarah> I’d say the projects I’m most proud of are the ones that really have some heart behind them. I’ve been lucky enough to work with brands including Women’s Aid and Street Doctors, and those definitely stayed with me. It’s a good feeling to know the work you’re doing can actually make a difference or spark a bit of conversation. When a project connects with people on a deeper level it reminds me why I love what I do.
LBB> Producers always have the best stories. What's the hairiest / most insane situation you've found yourself in and how did you work your way out of it?
Sarah> I was producing an edit for a short film that included point-to-camera-style interviews, and we’d lined up our London-based editor for the weekend. When the rushes came through, we realised everything was in German - eeek! I was still quite junior at the time and remember panic dialing anyone I knew who could speak a touch of German. Eventually I found a friend of a friend who could transcribe it quickly. Where was AI when you needed it?!
LBB> What are your personal ambitions or aspirations as a producer?
Sarah> I’d like to continue to take on projects that challenge me, work with people who inspire me, and grow into a senior position over time. I also want to help support younger talent coming through, the same way others supported me when I was starting out. The goal is to keep producing work I’m proud of and have a laugh along the way.
LBB> As a producer your brain must have a neverending ’to do’ list. How do you switch off and relax?
Sarah> It’s something I’m still working on, but watching cheesy reality TV with my girlfriends definitely helps. Until the adverts come on and then suddenly you’re reminded you work in advertising again, ha!
LBB> Producers are problem solvers. What personally fuels your curiosity and drive?
Sarah> For me it’s that buzz you get when you’ve cracked a problem with your team. It’s such a good feeling when everyone’s been chipping away at something tricky and suddenly it all clicks.
LBB> What advice would you give to people who are interested in becoming a producer?
Sarah> Don’t be afraid to start small. I came out of university expecting to walk straight into a production role which doesn’t always happen. Starting as a runner gives you amazing exposure to the industry and helps you find your feet, and your people. Plus, it’s likely to be some of the most fun you’ll have in your career.
LBB> From your experience what are the ingredients for a successful production?
Sarah> A successful production is really about staying flexible and calm – things often change from pre-prod to delivery. Keep moving with it, adapt as you go, and don’t forget to have fun (and maybe a couple of motivational wines or pints along the way).
LBB> What’s the key to a successful production–client relationship?
Sarah> Trust and open communication, without a doubt. Everyone’s ultimately working toward the same goal, so being transparent and collaborative makes the whole process smoother and more enjoyable.
