*The Creator’s Sketchbook podcast series by DIGITAL 精 华 [SERUM] connects with Kiwi artists working as professional creatives post-COVID. The podcast hosts talks aimed at decoding challenges that creative practitioners face in 2025, and their triumphs.

Professional moment creator, freelance photographer and director Tom Grut says that when entering a career as a creative, patience is key. He was born and raised in Tāmaki Makaurau, West Auckland, NZ where he started out as an editor working for his big brother, Fraser Grut.

Since 2020 he has created music videos for a cohort of New Zealand’s top music artists including Melodownz, Kings, Jujulipps, and many more. He is now a director/photographer at NZ production company Fish ’n’ Clips, and a band manager for Auckland band, Double Parked.

In this interview with SERUM, Grut explains his process of directing, and translating creative concepts from his mind onto the screen. He offers a director’s perspective on launching a career and emphasises that improving your work is crucial, but maintaining healthy networking practices is equally essential.

Working his way to shooting big festivals like Laneway Festival and LiveNation gigs, nowadays, he’s set up pathways for young up-and-comers to shadow him at festivals, allowing them to gain shooting experience at concerts. 

Keep an eye out on his social media for announcements. 

Listen or watch to the full interview below: