How Do I Become a Corporate Videographer?

Corporate videographers are professionals who create videos for companies, often filming events such as meetings, training sessions, seminars, and general documentaries used for marketing purposes and to illustrate for outside parties how a company functions. To become a corporate videographer, it is usually necessary to earn an associate's or bachelor's degree in video production or in a related subject. A person who wants to become a corporate videographer also should get plenty of experience by working as an intern and assistant. Once you have gained the right credentials and experience, you next should determine if you would like to have your own videography business of if you would like to work for a firm.

People who work as corporate videographers tend to be competent filmmakers who understand the basics of lighting, visual storytelling, editing, and using effects, such as fading in and out of scenes. Whereas a feature filmmaker might focus on capturing the attention of his or her audience, the main goals of a corporate videographer usually are to follow the requests of his or her clients, to create informative videos, and to present companies in a positive light. Individuals who work full time as videographers might also create videos for weddings, parties, and other events.

To become a corporate videographer, it is essential that you earn some kind of degree or certification. A person who would like to enroll in a four-year undergraduate program, for example, should make sure that the school he or she chooses has a strong media department. Some people even study video in master's degree programs. It also is possible to become a corporate videographer, however, by earning an associate's or technical degree or by earning a certificate from a school that specializes in related media arts.

An individual who wants to become a corporate videographer should begin getting real world experience as soon as possible. This means that while you are working toward your degree or certificate, you should find entry-level positions that enable you to work along side established corporate video artists. Most degree programs offer students the opportunity to work as interns or at least to speak to established videographers. As an assistant or intern, you should get experience positioning cameras, adjusting lights, and corresponding with clients.

If you would like to become a corporate videographer who works for a firm, it is important that you compose a resume and gather a list of at least three professional references. People who would like their own practices should get some experience behind the camera. This might require doing some early assignments for little to no charge in order to develop a portfolio and to get positive client testimonials.