How to Get Started as a Production Assistant
Production assistants work in television, motion picture and video production studios. They help production crews with a variety of tasks, ranging from making photocopies to ordering supplies. Besides performing administrative duties, production assistants help shoot and edit videos and set up and maintain camera and studio equipment. The barrier of entry for this occupation is high, since there are typically more applicants than job openings. However, candidates with industry experience and superior skills in communications and audio and video editing are competitively positioned for these jobs.
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Instructions
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Obtain your high school diploma. Enroll in a film and video production program at an accredited college or university. Pursue an associate's degree in communications media, public relations, camera operation or videography at a community college or trade school for more affordable training options. Take courses in television programming, electronic production, humanities, news reporting, promotions and public speaking.
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Become a video production intern for an entertainment or media firm, or get a summer job in an electronics or video store. Learn from experienced camera operators and producers how to set up special lighting, cameras and other studio equipment. Update production databases, put together spreadsheets, scan photographs and artwork, and record notes during meetings for directors and management. Check with your school to find out whether you can receive academic credit after completing your internship.
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Subscribe to videographic and camera technology newsletters and magazines. Become a member of audio and video production clubs on campus, or industry associations that provide student memberships. Participate in events and activities that allow you to build your experience and network with industry professionals. Collect business cards and develop a list of industry contacts for future business inquiries and job opportunities.
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Develop your resume. Consider building an online portfolio to display academic and professional projects related to television, video or motion picture production. Demonstrate industry knowledge by describing your experience on sets, and accomplishments in academic and professional environments. List important skills such as your level of expertise in editing programming, operating teleprompters and maintaining equipment. Use these tools to apply for an entry-level production assistant position.
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Tips & Warnings
Jobs in the motion picture and video production industries are predicted to increase 14 percent through the year 2018. Demand for TV and movie production professionals will be driven by an increased demand for programming on satellite and cable television channels in the U.S. and globally. Perfect your skills in digital editing and imaging software to position yourself for the best job opportunities during this time period.
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