Evaluation of progression

When reflecting on my progression so far, I feel that I am following my action plan as

far as I can. I am working hard to complete my diploma and achieve the best grade I
can, as this will give me more to offer future employers. I still must approach
Sandstorm for future work experience but, intend to do this in the next few weeks. I
also need to source other companies I can approach for work experience.

I feel that I have developed my technical skills a great deal, as I have tried to explore
different camera techniques in my assignments. My work experience exposed me to
a variety of different technical terms and techniques, which was hugely valuable. The
Multi cam project also exposed me to a variety of different skills and roles in the
industry and enabled me to explore what it was like working in those roles. I used
this opportunity to build and develop new skills and to reflect on what roles I really
enjoyed or disliked e.g., being in front of the camera highlighted to me that
presenting was not a path I wanted to follow for my career.

My recent work experience at Sandstorm was very beneficial, as it really built an

excitement in me for what I could potentially do when I leave college. Also, the
technical work I was involved in helped firm up my decision on what part of the film
making process I want to follow. I have decided I want to be mainly hands on with
equipment and cameras, rather than post production. I thoroughly enjoyed being
involved in the process of preparing for a shoot at Sandstorm, for example, working
on setting up lighting rigs and this showed me that this type of work is exactly what I
want to be doing in my future career.
 
I recently had the opportunity to be the official videographer and photographer at my
sister’s wedding. This re kindled in me my love for photography and reminded me
that I enjoy capturing moments in a single frame. I realised that it will probably
benefit my career progression if I further develop my photography skills as well, as
this is another skill to offer employers. When researching the industry, it was clear
that if you can offer employers a wide range of technical and practical skills it is
beneficial. Therefore, I intend to do all I can to learn new skills and push myself.

I debated, for a while on whether to go to university, do an apprenticeship or go

straight into the industry and this progression unit has allowed me to really think
about the different options I have. After reflecting on the positive and negative
aspects of all of them, I have concluded that I don’t feel university is the correct path
for me now; going straight into the industry seems to me to be a better
option. Having gained a taste of what the industry offers in my work experience I
really want to start on my career as soon as I can. I am happy to start at the bottom
and work my way up to ultimately be a camera operator.

In conclusion, I’m slightly more confident about my career aims and the path I think I
will take. This progression unit has allowed me to explore my options and has led me
to close certain doors and open others. I have also come to realise that I need to be
more proactive in chasing work experience, future job opportunities and attending
more industry networking events to build up my contacts.