Videographer/Editor? [UPDATE: What to do after interview?]

billwill

I have an interview tomorrow for the position of videographer/editor at my college. The lady interviewing me knows that I don't have much experience, since I've only really done home movies with friends and editing with windows movie maker (messed with Vegas a bit too). I would still like to be prepared for any questions though, so can anyone throw out some general knowledge about videography and/or editing that I should be prepared to discuss?

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Here's the job description:

The candidate will provide audio/video taping and editing working with the following program areas: Health & Nutrition; Children, Youth & Families; and Water; Horticulture; Economics & Environment. Candidate will need to travel to community locations to audio/video tape programs in action. Editing will be done at the Cooperative Extension office. Duties will include videotaping and editing.

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So basically it would be great if someone could just give me a crash course in videography/editing. I don't need to be an expert, but I would like to know something (like what kind of cameras might be used, what programs are generally used to edit, etcetc).

Thanks.

Forkes

Rule of thirds when video taping is pretty standard. The eyes should be at the line of the top third of the screen.

I am not sure what format you will be using (dvd, projector) so you may have to watch out for "title-safe". That means you should leave some room at the sides of the video because some will get cut off, so no graphics or actions at the edges. Static shots are nice and key, and it sounds like you will not be getting a lot of action shots, so getting used to using a tripod is a must. Figure out the tension in the tripod that is good for you. Ask them ahead of time if you need fancy shots (rack focuses, batman angles), because if they don't want them, don't do them.

I would download the trials for Adobe and Avid, and if you have a Mac Final Cut Pro. Those are the industry standard editing programs (although you will probably not be using Avid that much if it is just for a college, that is more used for news programs).

Find out if you shooting to tape (Mini DV, Beta) or solid state. I would bet on Mini DV or solid state, as Beta is pretty high end to shoot on. If you can, record bars on the tape for the first 10 seconds.

When putting a mic on someone, if it is a Lav mic (the kind that clips to their shirt), position it so they will be facing the mic, not away. (If they are talking to the left, put the mic on their left side.) Dress the mic under their shirt, or in a jacket.

I imagine you will be using a prosumer camera, as opposed to a handi cam, so there should be audio levels displayed on the LCD viewfinder. You want the audio to peak at zero.



Good luck, I have been trying to get a job in the industry for awhile now! It's tough, but once you're in, you're in!

billwill

So I had the interview today, and it seemed to go pretty great. I answered every question pretty well, and they even took me on a tour of their facility. They said that they are interviewing a few more people, and that they will notify me on Monday.

I would like to send a follow up email later tonight, but I don't know if thats "proper". The content will just be along the lines of thanking them for giving me the opportunity to work there, how I think I am qualified for the position, etc. Should I do this?

billwill

Anybody?

Forkes

I wouldn't say that it is IMproper. Just keep it professional, and I think you should be alrite.

Improvolone

Absolutely follow up and not just with a thank you, but find a way to talk about how perfect you are for the job. I'm thinking "I'm not coming in with any bad habits" is your best approach.