digifilmvid.com

Journal: Content Producer

This week I have made the transition from new media observer to content creator. Over the last two months, I have been working on several ongoing experiments in new media. Some of these experiences have included collecting interesting and groundbreaking videos on the web, and using twitter to follow and contribute to ongoing discussions about video on the web. While I have learned a lot about video and other media are defined on the web, I did not consider myself a producer of content until embarking on a group project for our class.

Working on a project for SFCityDish.com has made me realize my position as a content creator. While working with a team to create a 3-5 minute video showcasing a local restaurant, much of what I have been learning about video on the web came into play. Many of the things that I read in Web video by Jennie Bourne and Dave Burstein regarding image and sound quality, equipment setup, and interviewing skills came to mind throughout the process. I have also been considering the process of editing. Although editing happens in post production, you must plan your shots in preproduction, and make sure that you have enough of the right footage during production so that you can edit it in post. Reading about this sort of thing has given me a much better idea of what to expect and what is important in each stage of the production process, allowing me to fulfill my position as director effectively.

Throughout this project, I learned the real value of teamwork in a professional environment. I was fortunate enough to have a great team. It turned out that Kristina (producer), Carl (assistant director), and my skills balanced out very well. Every aspect of this project was executed with excellence, from camera work to communicating with our clients. For all of this to work, we had to trust each other and be responsible for fulfilling our own roles. Nothing could replace the experience of working on this professional project with a great team.