First Job in a Post Production House

Did you know that the number of higher education institutions offering degrees in media studies tripled in the first few years of the 21st century? It follows therefore that there are a lot more graduates looking for work in video, film and television production these days.

We have already asked members of our experienced crew why they originally wanted to work at a Post Production House, so for this blog we thought we would ask someone who has more recent experience of navigating the world of video production. Spencer Miller is a 17 year old student who worked for Clean Cut Media last summer.

Charlotte O’Farrell spoke to Spencer:

Tell me a bit about your education so far

I’ve just finished my first year of AS levels at Three Rivers Academy in Walton-on-Thames. After the summer I will return to study A levels in media, politics, history and sociology.

What made you interested in working in a post production house?

When I found out that my Media Studies teacher also ran a production company, I started to find out more and more about what it actually meant. In class I really enjoyed editing videos and learning Final Cut Pro and Photoshop. So for me, a job where I can  utilise these skills is the place for me!

How did you get the role at Clean Cut Media?

For me it made sense to approach smaller companies, I wanted the opportunity to experience all areas of activity at the production house. Also it had to be within cycling distance of my home! Broadcast magazine is a great resource if you can get hold of a copy. It’s got a great directory of video production companies.

Clean Cut Media were really open to meeting me when I called and I was very happy to be given a four day placement.

What work have you done at Clean Cut Media?

Over the four days I helped put together a presentation for a new business pitch. I had used PowerPoint at school so it was great to put into use in a real scenario. I must have done something right because they asked me back for a paid four week placement.

During that time I worked with the Media Manager Tom and different editors to find film media clips to go into longer features. For example we were putting together a feature on Novak Djokovic for the Cincinnati final on the ATP Tour. My job was to find clips of Djokovic at match point and lifting trophies. I had to find the right tape, digitise the footage, edit out the clips and save them so they could be cut into the next show. (Spencer is referring to tennis magazine show ATP Tour Uncovered).

What have you learned?

I’ve quickly got to know more industry-standard broadcast software. At school, we have Final Cut Pro, but I’ve been using Avid here. I have also learned how to use the Ardis Dynamic Drive Pool server to save big files.

On a non technical front, I have discovered that most editors are freelancers, which I didn’t know.

What are your plans now? 

I am going to complete my A levels in September, including Media, and am currently looking at various university courses to see what might be relevant.

So you have had your first paid job in the industry! Any tips to others wanting to do the same?

Definitely get some work experience. Some of my friends just took a week off, instead of doing the work experience. But it’s really worthwhile.

If I applied for a media job and only had an OK grade at A level but had some experience in a production company, I think I’d have a better chance than someone with a better grade but no experience. Work experience is the way to go: it makes you more employable.

Maybe it goes without saying but work hard and be friendly whether you’re paid or not.

Thanks Spencer!