Atmosphere Press Staff Spotlight: Chris Beale

Chris Beale is a professional proofreader who helps authors bring clarity, consistency, and polish to their manuscripts before publication. A lifelong reader, he enjoys being part of the creative process, supporting authors in refining their work to a professional standard.

Chris began his proofreading career at Cambridge University Press, working on theses and technical publications, before moving into newspapers and later freelancing with design agencies in London. He eventually founded his own proofreading company, contributing to projects such as the early editions of UK GAAP and collaborating with Michelin on travel guides across Europe.

Based in the north-east of England, Chris lives with his wife, grown-up son, and two miniature Dachshunds, Ruby and Rocco. In his spare time, he pursues photography, participates in local 10k and half-marathon runs, and supports his favorite sports teams: Tottenham Hotspur, the Collingwood Magpies, and the San Francisco 49ers.

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What’s your role at Atmosphere Press, and what do you enjoy most about it?

I’m a proofreader, which means I carefully review authors’ manuscripts to ensure clarity, consistency, and polish before publication. As a lifelong reader, I love being part of the creative process—getting a behind-the-scenes look at stories in progress and helping authors bring their work to a more professional, refined level. It’s incredibly rewarding to contribute to their journey.

How does your own creative practice inform your work with authors?

I understand how personal and challenging the creative process can be. That perspective helps me approach each manuscript with respect and sensitivity. I know how much heart goes into every draft, so when I’m proofreading, I focus on supporting the author’s voice and helping their work shine in the way they intended. It feels like a shared effort to make the story the best it can be.  

What book, film, or piece of art has shaped you the most?

I’m not sure I’d say they shape me, but my favourite authors are: JRR Tolkien, Isaac Asimov, Mickey Spillane, Peter James, Lynda La Plante.

Favourite films: Pulp Fiction, The Shawshank Redemption, It’s a Wonderful Life.

Art: I much prefer photography to paintings and sculptures, and I’m a keen photographer myself.

What do you wish more authors knew about Atmosphere Press’s publishing process?

One of the most important things for authors to know is that they’re not alone in this process. Publishing can feel overwhelming, but at Atmosphere Press, there’s a whole team of people—editors, designers, proofreaders, and more—who genuinely care about bringing their book to life. It’s a collaborative journey, and every step is focused on honoring the author’s voice while helping their work reach its full potential. We’re here to support, not take over, and that makes the process both professional and personal.

What’s a fun fact most people wouldn’t guess about you?

I took the Mensa test on a whim and ended up scoring really high—apparently I like puzzles more than I realised.

I collect (or love) obscure—especially the kind that shows up on standardized tests.

I love proofreading so much that I sometimes find myself editing menus, signs, or subtitles in my head.

Where can people find your creative work, if you’d like to share?

https://cbproofreadingandtypesetting.co.uk/welcome-to-cb-art

Any advice for fellow creatives trying to stay inspired?

Don’t pressure yourself to be inspired all the time—it’s okay to go through quiet phases. What helps me is staying curious: reading something outside my usual genre, going for a run, or just paying attention to small details around me. Sometimes the best ideas show up when I’m not looking for them.

What’s a creative risk you’ve taken that paid off (or didn’t—but taught you something)?

I guess the biggest risk I took was when I moved back to England after living in Australia for many years. Instead of finding a ‘proper job’, I launched my own proofreading business.

When do you feel most “in flow” creatively?

Definitely after I’ve had a good sleep followed by an early morning run! 

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More staff spotlights are on the way!
Until then, meet the rest of Atmosphere Press’s amazing staff on our team page.