From Classroom to Real World: An Intern’s Experience in Video Production at Skillman Video Group

Being a video producer is no easy task, and that task isn’t any easier when you are an intern producing your first video outside of the Norwich University walls. Skillman Video Group is known for its high-quality videos and attention to detail.

As an intern, I can only hope to produce a video that meets SVG’s standards.

Finding the Right Topic

Before filming, Christina Skillman and I brainstormed a topic that would promote SVG and help potential clients be better prepared for video marketing meetings. One thing Christina mentioned really stuck out to me: clients not knowing their message. Though SVG is there to help promote a business and tell a story, we can’t do our job if we are trying to hit a moving target. The concept of a moving target was the perfect angle for the video, so our video’s message would be the importance of planning a corporate video.

Preparing for Filming Day

When filming day approached, I had a list of pertinent questions to ask Christina. Besides hauling in the heavy video equipment, the only problem we had throughout the day was balancing the installed LED lights and the natural lighting. I decided to film B-roll on a separate video camera from the Sony HXR we used for the interview. However, I found that using two separate cameras would make the color correction process that much more difficult in post-production.

The Challenges of Post-Production Editing

Although I have always loved editing and feel that I am particularly well-acquainted with editing programs, the editing process for this particular video appeared to be more of a learning curve for me. While at Norwich University, I was used to editing on Avid Media Composer. I was able to download Adobe Premiere Pro to edit, and teaching myself the new program took time and help from SVG’s Marketing Coordinator, Jack Wall.

Nonetheless, my 5-year-old Apple computer didn’t like the high-speed program and ultimately put up a huge fuss whenever I went to edit. The entire computer slowed down due to the amount of data it processed, which made reviewing the video that much more difficult. Though teaching myself a new program and dealing with a low-speed computer can be frustrating, I was happy to learn something outside my comfort zone.

Learning Through Critiques

Putting together a video is like writing an essay; it requires drafts and critiques. Working with Christina and Jack helped me become more equipped with video production experience, and I am grateful to have had their knowledge at hand throughout this process.

Looking at the final draft with Christina was nerve-wracking, for she holds her business to high expectations. I was happy to get positive feedback, but I learned even more about the mistakes I made, such as being aware of the little things like her shirt being scrunched up, which would call for a retake in the real world of video production. Some people lose confidence over critiques and mistakes, but when it comes to video production, there is always room to improve.

The Value of Real-World Experience

Being able to produce my own video for SVG was intimidating and, at times, frustrating when editing in post-production. However, this internship is set up to improve and develop experience in this field. I learned that real-world video production involves handling unexpected challenges, such as lighting issues and technical difficulties, and adapting quickly to maintain the quality of the final product.

Embracing the Learning Process

Despite the challenges, the opportunity to produce a video for Skillman Video Group was invaluable. I learned to embrace the process, take constructive criticism positively, and continually strive for improvement. The experience has not only enhanced my technical skills but also boosted my confidence in handling professional video production tasks.

Looking Ahead

As I continue my journey in video production, I am grateful for the guidance and support from the SVG team. This internship has provided me with a solid foundation and the confidence to take on more complex projects in the future. The lessons learned and the experience gained will undoubtedly be beneficial as I pursue a career in this dynamic field.