Work placements during postgraduate studies are extremely valuable, both academically and professionally. While classrooms provide a strong theoretical foundation about the subject, it’s only through practice that the construction of one’s career is concrete. In its essence, it acts as a bridge between theory and practice in real-world settings.
Given this significant aspect, the MA Film and Television: Research and Production offers a module focused on work placements. It enhances one’s skills and knowledge through hands-on experience, bolstering understanding of workplace dynamics and clarifying career pathways. An added advantage is having work experience on the CV, furthering chances of employment immediately after graduating. Through the module, I had the privilege of undertaking two such placements, in varying capacities.
My first placement was with a television production company based in Digbeth. As a placement intern, I worked on a show that featured savings, bargains and deals on daily use products and more. During the first two weeks, I was assigned to aid the casting team. My area of focus was the ‘Blind Test’ segment of the show. This segment consisted of three different individuals from a similar sector testing masked products from three different price ranges, to determine the best. I had to contact various organisations and individuals through the means of social media, emails and more, enquiring about their interest in being a part of the segment.
Within the research domain, I was then assigned to the deals search team, which is the backbone of the entire show. Here, I was tasked with sourcing product deals through various online searches, providing the best savings featured on the “Deals of the Week” segment. I also had to find supermarket deals which were featured on the “Big Shop” section of the show. I even had the privilege of designing the slides, which featured these products as visuals for the segments.
I also got a chance to shadow one of the editors for the show. It was a treasure trove of learnings and also a reassurance that my editing process lies in a similar domain. The editor even implemented one of my suggestions in their cut, which made the flow of visuals look smoother.
Apart from this, I was tasked with studio runner duties on shoot days. This mainly involved helping the crew in setting up the studio backdrop, moving lights and camera equipment, assisting the camerapersons when required, making teas and coffees for the crew and more. I even ‘acted’ as an extra in the show, working in the background as the presenters presented certain segments.
The main skill I have picked up from the team here was just being positive and curating a truly healthy working environment. I also learnt about the workflow and process which a show implements for an efficient shoot. I also learnt the intricate details of direction from being around the director during the shoot process. Another crucial learning was the importance of thorough research, which enables putting out the best episodes for viewing and providing knowledge to its viewers.
The second placement I undertook was working on a feature film in the Shetland Islands as the 2nd Camera Assistant. My role entailed helping with all the camera requirements as needed by the Director of Photography (DOP). This included setting up cameras, changing lenses, packing and unpacking gear, setting up lights, running batteries and more. My main role was to slate for the film, attaining the nickname of “The Slate-a-nator”. Apart from this, I also helped with runner duties as and when required, such as cleaning dishes, setting up food and snacks, running to the shops for dinner essentials and such.
This experience provided me with all the essentials of handling the camera, the technical requirements and know-how, framing process, lighting and more. I even learnt about the process of slating and its importance.
The aspects of effective communication and planning were also a huge learning from the shooting process, which enabled a smooth flow for all involved. The screenings of the dailies also provided me with insights into feature film editing, bolstering my confidence and interest in the area.
The Shetland Islands and the people themselves were truly lovely and provided a much-needed alternative perspective from the usual lives we all lead.