In the Spotlight: Edward Harper

In this interview, we hear from one of the North Easts most exciting upcoming creative talents. Meet Edward, the creative force behind Studio Harp. His work blends the gritty charm of Middlesbrough’s post-industrial landscape with a real love for the North East. With an eye for detail and a passion for capturing the true essence of people and places, Edward is at the heart of a growing creative scene in the Tees Valley. In this interview, we chat about his journey, the inspirations that fuel his work, and what it's like to build a creative studio in the area.

1. Hi…, let’s introduce you to the network. Can you tell us a little about yourself, your work?

I’m Edward, and I run Studio Harp, a creative studio based in Middlesbrough that focuses on creating content for businesses. My passion lies in crafting stories through video, whether that’s a heartfelt testimonial or something more dynamic. It’s all about finding ways to connect with people. I also use the studio to collaborate with other creatives in the region.

2. You are based in the Tees Vally. Did you grow up here?

Yes, I grew up in Darlington, and I love being a northerner and a creative. There’s something unique about the culture here—it’s a mix of grit and community that’s shaped who I am. Staying in Darlington has allowed me to tap into that local identity and bring it into my work. I've travelled across much of Europe and parts of North America, but something always pulls me back to the North East of England. I want to see this region thriving and be a part of that positive change.

3. What inspired you to get into videography, and what was it about this medium that drew you in?

I’ve always been fascinated by the way stories come to life through video. My older brother, who’s a bit older than me, was a great source of inspiration. As a teenager, I loved watching the videos he created—it opened my eyes to what was possible with a camera and some creativity. Another big influence was the skatepark, where I spent a lot of my youth. We’d document tricks on video, and in many ways, what I do now feels like an extension of that early passion for capturing moments.

4. Can you share a memorable moment or project that helped shape your career?

One of the most memorable projects that helped shape my career was a music video I filmed with my childhood friend Luke for a track called “I Do.” The video aimed to capture life in a northern market town, and it was an exciting milestone when it was premiered by the music magazine Clash. That project taught me the importance of authenticity and how it impacts an audience’s perception of your work, especially staying true to who you are.

5. Is there a particular style or aesthetic you aim for in your work? If so, how did you develop it?

I strive for authenticity in my creative projects, focusing on presenting my perspective in a raw and honest way. My goal isn’t to have viewers agree with my approach or message but rather to share it in a way that feels genuine and accessible. Growing up, my family instilled in me a deep curiosity and a drive to seek answers to the questions I had about the world. This sense of wonder and inquiry continues to shape my creative work, which often feels like an extension of that pursuit. I am in awe of the human experience and often use the camera as a tool to capture moments that have caught my attention, hoping that someone else might resonate with them.

6. Are there any filmmakers, directors, or videographers who have influenced your work or style? If so, in what ways?

This is always a difficult question to answer because I draw inspiration from so many different places—it’s not always limited to the discipline I work in. That said, I’d like to highlight some incredible local creatives who have shaped my work: Ali Hutchinson for his stunning cinematography, Adam Watson for his work ethic and relentless drive, Andy Berriman for his compelling storytelling, Andy Winward for the humour woven into his work, and Paul Suggitt for his humility and the determination to independently get his films distributed on major streaming platforms. Lastly, I owe a special mention to my brother, who was the original influence that led me to pick up the camera in the first place.

7. Are there any personal projects you’ve worked on recently that you’re particularly proud of? What made them special to you?

A personal project, Industry, I completed earlier this year was an honest look at Middlesbrough’s post-industrial identity. I’m proud to have screened this film at The Auxiliary here in Middlesbrough a massive thanks to Steve Kirby for this. After the premiere, a few young lads contacted me to say how much the film resonated with them. I’m incredibly proud that a piece of work I felt so strongly about could connect with people from the region. I am expanding on this project, so you can expect some news on that very shortly in the new year. You can watch Industry on the Studio Harp YouTube channel—shameless plug!

8. What upcoming projects are you excited about?

I am currently working on a few projects locally, one of which is with a long-term collaborator, Eyeconic, a Polish-born musician who was raised in Middlesbrough. He embodies creativity, and his growth and maturity as an artist over the years have been a pleasure to watch. We are working on a music video for his next single, which will be released in the new year. The track is amazing!

9. What does a typical day look like for you as a freelancer? How do you manage the variety of tasks that come with the role?

I am quite disciplined with my schedule. I usually wake early and grab a coffee to go before heading to the studio, where I typically spend an hour or so replying to emails and then working on briefs for clients, provided I don’t have a shoot that day. One thing I learned very early on is to conquer the morning; I try to get the tedious tasks of the day done first so I can make room for the more exciting aspects of this job.

10. Most rewarding part of being a freelancer in the creative and cultural sector?

Truthfully, I get to wake up and chase my dream every day. Are there drawbacks to that? Yes. But overall, I feel privileged to be in this position. I am never just going through the motions—my work is generally really exciting. I’ve always been an inquisitive person, so getting to meet so many people with such vast, different experiences is an honour. I couldn’t imagine living my life any other way at the moment. I love being part of the local creative sector; it feels like there’s a real sense of unity forming, and I’m just excited to see where it goes.

11. What are you most looking forward to as a member of Tees Valley Creates: The Freelancer Network?

I’m most looking forward to connecting with like-minded creatives and sharing experiences. Being part of a network like this means having access to a community that understands the challenges and triumphs of freelancing in the creative sector. I’m excited about the potential for collaboration, learning new skills, and supporting each other’s growth. It’s a chance to build lasting relationships and contribute to a stronger creative ecosystem in the region.