Founded in March 2023 by Joey O’Connell, Chris Ogden and George Oliver, Kelham®️ has quickly become one of Sheffield’s leading full-service production agencies – combining creative production, equipment hire and a purpose-built studio to support freelancers, production companies, brands and beyond.
“Our studio has been the cornerstone for many productions, hosting the BBC, Channel 4, Paramount Plus, as well as talent like Luke ‘The Nuke’ Littler and Bring Me The Horizon,” says Chris. “Alongside this, we’ve welcomed a range of private events, parties and workshops.”
“The Kelham®️ Open Day is an exciting opportunity for us to open the doors to brands, agencies and creatives looking to network,” adds Joey. “It’s not just about showing off the studio – we want people to experience the equipment, the facilities and the team behind it.”
The event is open to creatives at every stage and aims to foster new collaborations in an increasingly cross-disciplinary world. As Joey explains: “We want to get creatives across the city together in a relaxed, social environment. This industry, whether you’re freelance or part of a small team, can feel isolating – so we want to help unite Sheffield’s ever-growing talent.”
“One way we’re supporting that community is through accessible equipment hire,” says George. “We offer a wide range of cameras, lighting, lenses and more to lower the barriers to production.”
Attendees can expect more than a tour. The team are transforming the studio into a creative playground – with AI green screen demonstrations, full car rig setups and an FPV drone simulator thanks to Steel City Drones. Coffee will flow all day, pizza comes courtesy of B’Reyt Dough and drinks from Freddie’s, the hard iced tea brand, will keep everyone refreshed. DJ Yarni will be spinning vinyl throughout, and every guest receives a free Kelham®️-branded T-shirt.
Big industry names are backing it, too. Kit specialists CVP and manufacturer Sony are attending, giving guests the chance to get hands-on with some of the best gear in the business.
But as impressive as the set-up sounds, the heart of the event lies in building genuine, face-to-face connections. The organisers see sharing a slice of pizza and a coffee as a more organic way of developing relationships – something that’s getting lost in the social media age.
Kelham®️ Productions is also looking for up-and-coming creatives keen to get into video production and photography. “Sheffield is packed full of talent,” says Joey. “Our goal is to create a platform where they can develop and grow.”
That emphasis on grassroots connection is key. Whether it’s working with local students, giving them live client briefs or championing Sheffield as a creative hub to rival Manchester or Leeds, the team are driven by a deeper mission.
“We feel it’s our role and responsibility in the city to provide a platform for aspiring creatives,” Joey adds. “There’s no real space or brand pulling people together in a way that truly serves the industry. So we’re doing it ourselves.
“Sheffield’s creative scene is understated. There’s so much talent here, but it’s like a little secret. You’ve got to be here to know what’s really going on.”
Kelham Open Day takes place on 12 September, 2–9pm at Kelham Studio (Effingham Road). Tickets are free – register here.
