Behind the Scenes at MTV
by Diane Anselmo
"Lights, camera, action!" We've all heard those words before, but did you ever stop to think about the work that goes into the phrase? Who's behind the camera, editing the mistakes, and making sure the set has all its props? Before someone yells "action," there are a multitude of things that go on behind-the-scenes...
Anthony Beltempo, senior production assistant for MTV, lives this life every day, and has a great deal of insight to share on what working in the television production industry is really like.
"The entry-level position in the production industry is production assistant, better known as a P.A.," begins Anthony. "Your duties as a P.A. vary depending on where you work, but they can range from doing research, writing scripts, and editing, to delivering tapes, setting up the Green Room [the waiting area off-stage], preparing props, and transporting talent."
While being on the set of a production is very exciting, Anthony points out that this is not the career choice for someone who wants to be in front of the camera. "You really have to be interested in all the behind-the-scenes work in order to succeed in this field," he stresses.
Anthony realized his love for cameras at a very young age and took every step possible to pursue his goal. "I always made little movies with my friends with my video camera," he recalls. For those bitten by the production bug, Anthony offers a few ideas that can help you on your way to a successful career.
"Get as much hands-on experience as you can," he says. "Find out if any local schools have summer programs that can offer you some production experience." Anthony attended such a workshop while he was in high school and gained some valuable experience that gave him an edge when he went to college.
As for college, Anthony suggests majoring in communications or a more specific communication-related field such as TV/radio, journalism, broadcasting, or public relations. To decide, take a wide range of classes early in college. "The more diverse your class selections are, the broader your perspective will be on the communications field. Then you can decide what you are really interested in."
Above all, Anthony suggests that you seek out an internship during your college years. "Get as involved as you can in college," he stresses. "Try to get an internship at the place where you think you want to work. While you're there, don't ever be afraid to ask questions, and most importantly, make sure you keep in touch with them after your internship has ended. It can lead to your first job."
How Much You'll Make
Depending on where you decide to work, the salary for a production assistant ranges from $22,000 to $29,000. As for future job prospects, Anthony predicts that the jobs will be out there, but it will be your networking skills and ambition that will keep you above the rest.
What You'll Feel
Anthony finds accomplishment to be the most rewarding part of his job as a production assistant. "Starting a project from scratch and seeing it through to completion is such a great feeling of satisfaction."
As with any profession, Anthony does have his share of stressful times. "There are times when we are working on tight deadlines and the hours can be absolutely crazy. But, 'the show must go on,' so you must be committed to staying and getting the project done."
A Final Thought
"Take advantage of every opportunity possible to get as much experience as you can," says Anthony. "If you are committed to a career in production, then you will be a success!"
Anthony Beltempo, senior production assistant for MTV, lives this life every day, and has a great deal of insight to share on what working in the television production industry is really like.
"The entry-level position in the production industry is production assistant, better known as a P.A.," begins Anthony. "Your duties as a P.A. vary depending on where you work, but they can range from doing research, writing scripts, and editing, to delivering tapes, setting up the Green Room [the waiting area off-stage], preparing props, and transporting talent."
While being on the set of a production is very exciting, Anthony points out that this is not the career choice for someone who wants to be in front of the camera. "You really have to be interested in all the behind-the-scenes work in order to succeed in this field," he stresses.
Anthony realized his love for cameras at a very young age and took every step possible to pursue his goal. "I always made little movies with my friends with my video camera," he recalls. For those bitten by the production bug, Anthony offers a few ideas that can help you on your way to a successful career.
"Get as much hands-on experience as you can," he says. "Find out if any local schools have summer programs that can offer you some production experience." Anthony attended such a workshop while he was in high school and gained some valuable experience that gave him an edge when he went to college.
As for college, Anthony suggests majoring in communications or a more specific communication-related field such as TV/radio, journalism, broadcasting, or public relations. To decide, take a wide range of classes early in college. "The more diverse your class selections are, the broader your perspective will be on the communications field. Then you can decide what you are really interested in."
Above all, Anthony suggests that you seek out an internship during your college years. "Get as involved as you can in college," he stresses. "Try to get an internship at the place where you think you want to work. While you're there, don't ever be afraid to ask questions, and most importantly, make sure you keep in touch with them after your internship has ended. It can lead to your first job."
How Much You'll Make
Depending on where you decide to work, the salary for a production assistant ranges from $22,000 to $29,000. As for future job prospects, Anthony predicts that the jobs will be out there, but it will be your networking skills and ambition that will keep you above the rest.
What You'll Feel
Anthony finds accomplishment to be the most rewarding part of his job as a production assistant. "Starting a project from scratch and seeing it through to completion is such a great feeling of satisfaction."
As with any profession, Anthony does have his share of stressful times. "There are times when we are working on tight deadlines and the hours can be absolutely crazy. But, 'the show must go on,' so you must be committed to staying and getting the project done."
A Final Thought
"Take advantage of every opportunity possible to get as much experience as you can," says Anthony. "If you are committed to a career in production, then you will be a success!"
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