Tips on Documentary Photography After You're Hired

[Reyed Mia (Apprentice, DIU)]

Tips on Documentary Photography After You're Hired

Understand that your professional education is just beginning

Some producers don't want to see your production reel; it doesn't tell them whether or not you'll be a team player who can be trusted with basic tasks. Yes, it's frustrating to get out of school and be told that your job now is to listen and learn, but you are not yet ready to compete with industry leaders for top assignments. In applying for entry-level work with more established filmmakers, recognize that you have an opportunity to learn from the masters, get a close-up view of the industry and make valuable connections. As one of the producers said, "Making your own film can be a long, hard, lonely road, even if you know what you're doing. I'm not sure it should be anyone's first introduction" to the profession.

Find meaning even in the small tasks

Filmmaking is composed of countless tasks, and all of them matter-even those that may seem mundane, such as photocopying, filing or making sure the crew has lunch. Perform these tasks well and cheerfully, and you'll prove you're capable of greater responsibility. Nobody wants to micromanage you, so demonstrate that you don't need close supervision by keeping track of what's assigned (write assignments down; it's a good idea to carry a small notebook), giving the tasks your full attention and reporting back on what you've accomplished. Remember, too, that films are collaborative and are often made in fits and starts, which means that your work needs to be easily shared among colleagues both now and in the future. Organization and a willingness to go the extra step are important. (Conversely, if you're disorganized, sloppy, a complainer or someone who needs a lot of attention-such as sharing a ride to a remote location and then telling the producer you need to leave early-you're not likely to be invited back.)

Show initiative

All of the producers with whom I spoke agreed that the best way to get noticed is to use your common sense, perform assigned tasks well, and then take the initiative to see what else is going on around you and how you might contribute. Ask questions. Read. Be diligent about arriving on time, and if a task needs a bit of extra time, stay to see that it's finished. Don't waste other people's time with half-completed tasks, and don't use office time for personal calls, e-mails or texts; nor should you blog about your employer or work projects unless you have prior permission. Attitude is everything: You want to be the "can do" employee.

Be sure you're getting as well as giving

As an intern or entry-level employee, you may be working for little or no money in exchange for meaningful experience and industry connections. If you find that you're chained to the photocopy machine and not getting any opportunities to learn, speak up. If a solution can't be found with that employer, find another. But be careful not to burn bridges, either with your employer or with co-workers. You never know who will be in a position to help or hinder your career in the future.

Source: http://www.documentary.org/content/so-you-want-work-documentary%E2%80%A6tips-getting-started