Case studies: Video producer: Hannah

Hannah graduated with a BSc in Media Production. She enjoys having creative control over her own projects...

Hannah's long-term interest in media was initiated when she studied the subject at A level. She was eager to work in the industry, as she felt it offered more challenging prospects than a general office-based role. After completion of her degree, Hannah freelanced, until a contact forwarded her a job advertisement, and her online application was accepted. She had not envisaged herself based solely in an office, so the variety of working as a film or video producer, which would mean spending time in a range of locations, attracted her to the role.

Hannah says, 'There are so many elements that are part of my role now that you don't get from entry-level jobs in this field. I'm able to carry out all stages of film production from making a film, planning and writing scripts, to directing and filming, as well as editing, writing a soundtrack and creating motion graphics. Most media roles will see a graduate at my level specialising in one area, such as editing or filming, so this is a very rare, hands-on role.'

Hannah secured her continuous work by taking a proactive approach. She created a portfolio of work and recommends that recent graduates should follow the same route, for example, by putting their own material on YouTube or creating a website to showcase their work.

'When I first started I did free promotional films for companies. I got this by ringing round and asking if I could do it for free, to boost my CV. This then led to paid freelance work. Producing work to your highest standard gets you noticed, and it brings new opportunities as you build up a reputation by word-of-mouth. I moved into paid employment as enquiries from the public sector came through. Departments I'd previously worked with recommended me to other colleagues. And of course, networking is really important in this industry.'

Hannah's degree gave her relevant skills and experience in both the theoretical knowledge and the practical skills needed for the industry. Hannah felt her degree course had the right balance. She explains, 'I chose my course because of the content and the links with industry which I knew would help me to gain a job after university.' Her choice paid off, and she has found that the course components she studied were the most appropriate for the area of media she now works in.

'I didn't think I'd find a job that would match all my skills; or at least so soon. At first I started with a few projects but now I choose which projects to take on and how they develop. I manage my own workload, and I've learned to improve my time management to make sure that I meet deadlines and am as productive as possible. I'm also taking a six-week evening training course in motion graphics at a local arts centre which is paid for by my employer.'

In an annual cycle Hannah's role covers:

• brainstorming with clients;
• writing scripts;
• filming;
• editing;
• directing;
• making sound tracks/music;
• out-putting material to the web;
• making DVDs;
• graphics;
• directing/working with other design teams.

Hannah finds the most enjoyable part of her job is having creative control over her own projects. Her team are conscious of the importance of tailoring content to recent trends and technology which is always advancing. Hannah remarks, 'I love experimenting with new styles and technique.' Sometimes, she finds that it can be frustrating, when clients 'don't understand the amount of preparation that goes into a project, and set impossible deadlines'. Increased experience means that she is generally able to communicate this to a client and negotiate a more realistic timeframe or solutions to problems.

Hannah is pleased that there are several areas where she can develop and progress in her current role, as it requires a wide variety of skills and a strong commitment to personal development, and her employers are supportive of this. Her ultimate goal would be to direct and write for television programmes and films.