How to Become a Videographer in the Military
Military videographers complete basic training, just like other soldiers, but they also undergo specialized training for their specific career field. You can choose to become a public affairs broadcast specialist, which means that you will prepare radio and television programs for the Army. Public affairs broadcast specialists are versatile; you may fulfill the role of cameraman, director and anchor in the same broadcast. Combat documentation/production specialists are also videographers who primarily document the operations of the Army in combat zones and non-combat operations. These specialists may record ceremonies or produce training films.
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Instructions
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Talk to a local Army recruiter about enlisting. Depending on your age, the recruiter will likely request that you and your parents meet with him to discuss any questions or concerns you have. He will discuss the enlistment process, your training and your career opportunities. Inform the recruiter that you wish to become a videographer.
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Take the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) test. This multiple choice exam analyzes your abilities in various subject matters, such as math and word knowledge. After you receive your test results, consult your recruiter to determine if you are eligible to become a military videographer.
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Visit the Military Entrance Processing Station (MEPS). Expect medical evaluations, job opportunity consultations, fingerprinting and pre-enlistment briefing. After the experts at MEPS evaluate you, you will learn if you qualify to become a videographer. If so, sign the enlistment papers after reading them carefully and take the oath of enlistment.
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Complete basic training. If you enlist as a public affairs broadcast specialist, expect nine weeks of basic training. Combat documentation/production specialists undergo 10 weeks of basic training. You'll learn teamwork skills and undergo drills, field exercises and weapons training.
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Complete advanced individual training (AIT). AIT school teaches you the skills needed to fulfill the requirements of your chosen career. Expect training in using the camera equipment, special effects techniques, video editing, writing copy and public speaking.
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References
- U.S. Army: Learn How to Join - Talking to a Recruiter
- U.S. Army: Learn How to Join - Understanding the ASVAB Test
- U.S. Army: Learn How to Join - Your Visit to MEPS
- U.S. Army: Careers & Jobs - Public Affairs Broadcast Specialist
- U.S. Army: Careers & Jobs - Combat Documentation/Production Specialist
- U.S. Army: Soldier Life - Basic Combat Training
Resources
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