It’s one thing to read about camera functions or production workflows; it’s another to be physically present, adjusting settings, assisting with setups, and seeing how every component contributes to the final product. One of the most profound aspects of my internship was the opportunity to gain hands-on experience with professional camera equipment and to truly grasp the daily operational rhythm of a video production company. This engagement was, without a doubt, one of my favorite parts of the entire internship experience.
A significant highlight of my internship was the chance to participate in two distinct shoots, each offering unique insights. The first major assignment took me to Seattle for a three-day conference, working alongside Luke, as a production assistant. This trip was a whirlwind of activity where I experienced the intricacies of on-set coordination and travel logistics. Beyond assisting with production, I was also actively involved in the filming process, gaining invaluable experience in capturing live events.
Later in the internship, we embarked on another captivating project, traveling to Westchester, New York to film a high school football team's inspiring journey. This shoot presented a different set of creative opportunities. Here, I had the chance to capture drone footage, adding a cinematic dimension to the story. I also played a crucial role in the interview process, learning how to pose questions and how to guide subjects answers, to result in compelling narratives. These varied on-set experiences provided a comprehensive look into the variety of video productions, from corporate conferences to heartfelt sports documentaries.
Among the lessons I learned at Filmiamo, a Philadelphia video production company, my absolute favorite was learning the art of client interaction, both on and off set. Luke and Hannah, my mentors, demonstrated an exceptional ability to navigate client relationships, especially when it came to adapting to feedback. Whether it was refining an edit to meet a client's vision or day to day interactions, they consistently exemplified professionalism and flexibility. Witnessing their approach to incorporating feedback, transforming critique into creative solutions, was incredibly insightful and a skill I now recognize as incredibly important in this industry.
This experience taught me that successful video production isn't just about technical prowess, but also about empathetic communication and building strong, trusting relationships. Beyond client relations, I gained a comprehensive understanding of the behind-the-scenes intricacies that go into producing a polished promotional video.
Before this internship, my knowledge of the full production process was rudimentary. I quickly learned that elements like lights, microphones, and even sandbags are not just accessories but play fundamental roles in achieving professional-grade results. Understanding how each piece of equipment contributes to the overall aesthetic, sound quality, and safety of a shoot provided me with a whole view of video production that I simply didn't possess before. It underscored the importance of meticulous planning and attention to detail in every stage of content creation.
This internship has inspired me for the future by solidifying my goal to continue pursuing a career in promotional video production. While Filmiamo specializes in a wide array of promotional content, I see a clear path to applying these invaluable skills to a slightly different, yet equally dynamic, industry of Esports. The world of competitive gaming thrives on engaging visual narratives, high-energy highlights, and compelling player stories—all of which require the kind of promotional video expertise I've gained during this internship.
Although Esports may appear distinct from some of the projects Filmiamo undertakes, the core principles of compelling storytelling, effective client communication, technical proficiency, and adaptable production workflows are universally applicable. This experience hasn't just taught me how to make videos; it's shown me how to build narratives that resonate, regardless of the subject matter, and that's something I’ll carry with me as I move forward.
I want to thank Luke and Hannah one last time for this incredible experience and I’m so grateful to have this opportunity to work alongside them at Filmiamo. I wish them the best of luck as Filmiamo progresses and can’t think of a better internship opportunity. Thank you!
