A Videographer/Journalist
Mr. Adam King What is your job like on a typical day? On any given day my day job can consist of traveling to various locations to set up a video or film shoot. This would include arranging the set for lighting purposes--setting up the camera and exposing it which depends on what time of day and how much sunlight is out. It also depends on if you are inside or outside. My day can include spending hours behind a computer editing previously shot video or film and using creative techniques to come up with a variety of long and short format videos and other pieces of media. What are the duties/functions/responsibilities of your job? The responsibilities of the job are many. I oversee shoots which means I manage the producing side; I direct people on where to go and how to situate themselves to look best on camera. I also manage the office staff and function as a producer/editor/assistant director/ production assistant. The list seems endless. How did this type of work interest you and how did you get started? I've always been interested in both behind the scenes work and in front of the camera work. There is not a lot of work around here for this type of job but I lucked into it. While it may not have been directly related to my major it seemed like something I would enjoy so I went for it and got hired. What are some of the educational requirements? It helps to have a bachelors degree in Communications or Journalism. Of course some background in film or video and lots of technical knowledge will place you at the front of the line. I don't really think it is an absolute necessity to have a degree for work like this but with many people applying for this kind of job so any college degree or higher learning skills will pay off. What jobs and experiences have led you to your present position? I worked at a television station and I have done radio work plus lots of writing. All of these experiences will apply to production work, I have shot video and edited for years. Opportunities pop up when you least expect them to. Can you suggest some ways a student can obtain the necessary experience? Try to get internships whenever possible. It is not always easy during the school year but plan ahead and go interview for summer internships at any television station, radio station or any production company. Also, try to keep up with technology because new cameras and equipment come up every month. With the speed of personal computers, it is very easy to teach yourself how to create projects at home which look very nice to possible employers. What are the most important personal satisfactions and dissatisfactions connected with your occupation? Personal satisfactions include meeting people who you really enjoy helping, working with people who's company you enjoy and doing projects that make you feel a sense of pride when you complete them. It always feels good to have something done that people are proud to show to others. If you do a good job and it is recognized by clients, it works out very well for you. Dissatisfactions involve working with rude and pretentious people. Prima donnas rules this industry so just don't get caught up in all that. What part of this job do you personally find most satisfying? Most challenging? When I produce something that meets the clients needs and they show it off to others. At the same time this can be challenging because there is pressure to not only satisfy your personal agenda but also those of the person who hired you. How has your job affected your lifestyle? It has brought more control to my life. While I try not to endure the same routine, it has brought consistency to the things I do. It has helped me find some direction in life and a sense of professionalism which I enjoy. What excites you about your job? I do get a great deal of pleasure using my creative talents and I hope to continue at a higher level. What skills are most important for this position? The essential skills are communications, technical knowledge, creativity and motivation. If people like you and you communicate well, they will seek your services. You must be motivated to produce a good product, it will show in your work and this will increase your clientele. Interviewed by Heather Drake for a College 101 assignment on 5/05. |
