Producing Tomorrow’s Producers: Tomas Katter on Why Knowledge Comes from Experience
Tomas Katter is the head of motion production at Studio RM in London. Tomas manages a talented team of colourists, flame artists and producers, including award-winning colourists Myles Bevan and Jamie Noble.
With a background deeply rooted in film and advertising, Tomas grew up surrounded by industry professionals, including his grandfather and uncle, who were both directors of photography (DOPs). Tomas studied graphics and animation at UCA but left early to start his career as a runner at Smoke and Mirrors, where he discovered his passion for production and post-production.
Whilst being at Studio RM, Tomas has produced award-winning and culturally iconic TVC’s, CK 1 Palace (GOLD at Ciclope 2022/ Bronze British Arrows 2023), De Beers and Hugo Boss, all were awarded for best colour grading.
LBB> What advice would you give to any aspiring producers or content creators hoping to make the jump into production?
Tomas> Learn the craft and don't be afraid to ask questions and seek advice from experienced pros. Understanding different roles and disciplines gives you a solid foundation, whether in production or post-production. And lastly, hard work is key—being the first in and last out made a big difference for me when I started.
LBB> What skills or emerging areas would you advise aspiring producers to learn about and educate themselves about?
Tomas> AI is a big deal right now, and it’s going to be huge in the future, so I’d recommend becoming familiar with it. Also, virtual productions are booming, so understanding how they work from both a production and post-production perspective is essential.
LBB> What was the biggest lesson you learned when you were starting out in production - and why has that stayed with you?
Tomas> The biggest lesson I learned was that mistakes will happen. When they do, own up to them and use them as learning experiences. No one is perfect, and knowledge comes from experience.
LBB> There are young people getting into production who maybe don’t see the line between professional production and the creator economy, and that may well also be the shape of things to come. What are your thoughts about that? Is there a tension between more formalised production and the ‘creator economy’ or do the two feed into each other?
Tomas> I think both have their place, and with the rise of short-form, social-first content, they're becoming more intertwined. Formalised production is key for structured processes, safety, and accountability. However, the creator economy offers flexible and cost effective solutions. Both can learn from and enhance each other.
LBB> If you compare your role to the role of executive producers when you first joined the industry, what do you think are the most striking or interesting changes (and what surprising things have stayed the same?)
Tomas> EPs and HODs are much more hands-on now, getting deeply involved in the production process rather than just overseeing it.
LBB> When it comes to educating producers how does your agency like to approach this? (I know we’re always hearing about how much easier it is to educate or train oneself on tech etc, but what areas do you think producers can benefit from more directed or structured training?)
Tomas> I’ve always believed the best way to learn is by doing. Having junior team members work closely with seniors, learning on the job with support and guidance. This hands-on approach helps them grow while ensuring they always have someone to turn to for advice.
LBB> It seems that there’s an emphasis on speed and volume when it comes to content - but to where is the space for up and coming producers to learn about (and learn to appreciate) craft?
Tomas> When it comes to commercial content, speed and quantity often key factors and deadlines can sometimes limit you. That's where passion projects come in to give you that creative release! They offer a breather from commercial pressures, allowing you to dive deep into the artistry without the same pressures. Plus, with limited budgets, you're forced to get creative, wear multiple hats, and truly focus on the craft.
LBB> Clearly there is so much change, but what are the personality traits and skills that will always be in demand from producers?
Tomas> In the ever-changing landscape, certain traits will always be gold for producers. Being caring, hardworking, and honest tops the list as fundamentally we are problem-solvers people need to know that they can count on you.
