A friend of mine posted
on his Facebook page about his friend Evan, looking for a studio intern. I
followed up and emailed Evan my cover letter, resume, and a curated portfolio
of my video and photo work that matched Refinery’s aesthetic. He replied and
asked for an interview. Even though I was in Baltimore at the time, I made the
trip to NYC for the interview because of how much I wanted it.
Refinery29 is a
renowned global media company that is revolutionizing what digital content can
be for young women. Refinery29 creates content such as articles and videos of a
variety
of categories including style, entertainment, health, technology, news, food, politics, careers, and more. They produce video
content on subjects that range from documentary series on exploring fashion
subcultures throughout the world, to a series about their host trying social experiments
weekly, to beauty videos about hair transformations, and so much more.
My direct supervisor
was the Studio Production Management Assistant, Katie. Her primary
responsibilities were scheduling our two-in house studios and equipment for
various producers. She also managed the two in-house videographers for shoots.
My main
responsibilities as a studio intern were assisting with studio productions in
lighting, sound, and gear set up. I also assisted with set decoration for video
productions. I prepped equipment packages for internal and external shoots,
which involved building and testing the cameras, and lighting, and sound
equipment. Some of the video productions I was involved in was assisting in set
up for their Facebook Live series “Ladies Room” and “The Mention”. “Ladies Room”
is a show of live interviews with notable authors, journalists, activists, or
general lady bosses. “The Mention” is their pop culture round up series where
they talk all things entertainment and celebrity related. I would help set up
lights and camera equipment.
I am most proud of
the helped that I contributed to every set. Every video production requires
many hands-on-deck to ensure that things run smoothly. I was proud that towards
the middle of my internship I understood how things ran and was able to help
the producers and videographers with the things they needed without too many
questions asked.
My biggest take-away
from my experience was seeing how the female videographers and producers ran
things with poise and finesse, and most importantly kindness. This has inspired
me to pursue being a videographer or producer, something that I was not able to
confidently pursue before.
The most important
thing I have learned is the importance of fostering work environment. Refinery29
had an amazing work environment, where everyone was welcoming and was
passionate about one another’s growth. This energy transferred to every
co-worker I met including executive producers to interns. I’ve learned that
being kind to everyone you meet is one of the best things to ensure that
productions run smoothly. When everyone knows and
enjoys each other,
working becomes less work.
Some new skills I
have gained is a myriad of knowledge about camera, lighting, and sound
equipment. I know how to handle and build various cameras and troubleshoot
settings. I also know how to set up lighting equipment in order to achieve
specific looks.
This has helped
clarify my career goals in paving the possibility of the occupation of a
videographer. It has also set a precedent of what a great working environment
looks and feels like.
