Wednesday 16 September
11.00 am - 1.00 pm
Story First: Will Perez on Creating Compelling Films
At sixteen, Will Perez picked up his dad’s Canon 1100D and started shooting. At his early wedding gigs, guests were still asking him when the photographer was arriving.
Eight years later, after building Behind the Diary to 50 episodes and 13 million views, taking 54 flights in 54 weeks and being named to Forbes 30 Under 30, Will is now Steven Bartlett’s lead filmmaker and editor.
In this session at CVP, Will will share the lessons he’s learned along the way – from the psychology behind stories that hold our attention, to how he finds the strongest narrative within around 40 hours of footage each week.
At the heart of the talk is a simple idea: people connect with stories, not spec sheets. Will will explore what makes a story compelling, the common assumptions that can stop one working, and how the right kit can help you react quickly, work instinctively and stay focused on creating.
He’ll also take a practical look at the Canon C50 in real-world use, including how he rigs it, why it has earned a place in his kit bag and how he prepares his setup for demanding productions and international shoots across locations including the Congo, Kyrgyzstan, Socotra, Bolivia and the Empty Quarter.
What the talk will cover
Will’s journey – From picking up his dad’s Canon 1100D at sixteen and shooting weddings, to dropping out of university, building Behind the Diary and becoming Steven Bartlett’s lead filmmaker.
What actually makes a story work? – The psychology behind compelling stories, the assumptions that can weaken them and why some content connects while so much gets scrolled past.
Finding the story – How Will approaches around 40 hours of footage each week and identifies the moments and ideas that make the strongest narrative.
The Canon C50 in real-world use – How Will rigs the C50, where it sits within his wider kit and why its setup works for the fast-moving and demanding environments he shoots in.
Choosing the right tools for the story – How to move beyond asking “what should I buy?” and instead think about the kit that best supports the way you work, helping you spend more time creating and less time second-guessing your setup.
The session will conclude with a live Q&A with Will, giving attendees the opportunity to ask about storytelling, filmmaking, career development and his experience using the Canon C50 in real-world production.
Date and Time: Wednesday 16 September 2026, 11.00-13.00 BST
Cost: Free
Location: CVP Fitzrovia, 89 Great Titchfield Street, London, W1W 6RN
