Creator Stories: Featuring @liddiation, Lydia “Lid” Peterson
Lydia is now a Senior Digital Content Editor at National Football League (NFL).
What initially got you interested in creating?
Having too many interests and then realizing content creation is where all my passions intersected and I fell in love with it.
What was your first role in the industry and how did you get there? What was your experience?
My first job out of college was for the Philadelphia Phillies I was a utility worker. Handling audio and video issues in the control room for Phanvision (the big board at the stadium). I got there because as I was playing sports, I met a camera man and asked him how he got his start and told him I wanted to do what he did for a living. He let me shadow and I was introduced to the world that is broadcasting in sports. I had experience in sport and I had experience behind the camera in school but in the real world I was really able to apply the things I’d learned and collect new skills.
Who do you look up to and admire in the industry and why?
I look up to so many of my content creator NFL co-workers but also so many of my co-workers in broadcasting. They create art every single day in a seemingly effortless way in any and all elements. It’s hard work, it’s long hours and they do such an incredible job whilst continuing to keep in good spirits. I also admire the few women who also do what I do and urge them to continue on even when things get rough.
How many years have you been working in the industry and how many places have you worked?
I have been working in the industry 8 years. I have worked for the Philadelphia Phillies, Comcast Spectacor, the Philadelphia Eagles, MLB, the NFL, the University of Pennsylvania Carey Law school, Temple University, the Philadelphia Union, PPI, Lid Productions and Total Production Services.
Where do you get your inspiration and what drives you to continue to create?
Oddly enough I think the desire to create comes from God. The first thing we see God do is create and I think that’s where we get it from. I understand that I seem to have some gifts and talents in that area and I don’t want to waste them. That’s what drives me to continue to create.
What is something you’ve created recently that you’re incredibly proud of and want to showcase — why is this a passion of yours and what do you want people to know about you and your work because of it?
I created a feature film recently. It was a culmination of me drawing on my professional network, creating something I’d be proud of, boosting my portfolio and increasing opportunity for my community although stressful I enjoyed the process.
What was your “I made it” moment? When you did something so amazing you couldn’t believe it or worked with a dream client, etc.
Two moments come to mind. I made a feature film at the end of 2019 and spent the pandemic years getting the film put out. The moment I saw my film playing inside a movie theater that clicked for me. Another moment rather recently was running onto the field after the eagles had won the NFC championship and knowing I was the only black women in the pit by the stage working with my camera in my hand brought me to that “I made it “ moment as well. My camera has taken me places I never imagined possible.
Anything else we missed you want to address?
I’d like to offer some encouragement especially to the women of color who feel blocked off to this industry: I want you to know that you can do this. I want content creators of color especially women to stop saying sorry for taking up space and walk in the path that your God given talents have provided for you with boldness, confidence, compassion, kindness and discernment. There are plenty of folks rooting for you, me included.
What are three fun facts about you?
- ) I claim that I’m the first black women to have shot a stadium series hockey game on a broadcast camera for TV.
- 2.) I have two dogs I would do anything for Loki and Lena.
- 3.) When I walk into a room and can’t remember what I came in for I mutter the word “Peruvian” in my head until I remember.
Whats one piece of advice you have for others just breaking into the industry?
Be personable, listen, ask loads of questions, listen some more, be on time, do the work and enjoy the ride.
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