1. Can you briefly define your job to me?
I was hired to scout and present locations for potential feature film projects that had an interest in Maryland. We were always competing with other states. As a former feature film and tv location scout and location manager, it was challenging to be “in on the project,” at the ground floor. Recently I was asked to work on film and also take on many additional responsibilities within the Division of Tourism, Film and the Arts
2. How did you get started in the business?
I worked as a copywriter for commercials and produced the work that clients selected. I worked at a commercial production company. I did a stint managing a Grip and Electric Company. Then I went freelance and found myself being hired on TV series and feature films…at first as Assistant Location Manager and then as Location Manager. In between movies, I production managed and/or location managed tv commercials, particularly the larger projects from companies in LA who needed a strong Maryland based production person.
3. How do you tell someone over you that you couldn't accomplish an assigned task?
Actually, you need to tell them early when they can jump in to help you or put more resources to getting the task done. For example, I was tasked with finding a cemetery location for a feature film. It had to look historic, be quiet and in a rural setting, and allow the filming of a horror movie. This is a very difficult “ask,” and I probably contacted over 40 churches and got turned down. When I started to see how this was going I went to the producer and production manager and said, “listen, I’m scouting for this location (and there were probably 50 distinct locations on the movie) but it is looking grim. I wanted to alert you as I think we need a backup idea. I should be able to find a hillside where we can place tombstones that the art department creates…with the correct set dressing.”
They appreciated my honestly. At the same time I was working with a gifted but stubborn production designer who did not want to go to plan B…so I persisted and found a small Church that had a sense of humor and needed the money. It was very difficult but in the end, it was win-win. I called the producer from the vicar’s home office and we made the financial arrangements.
You often have to deliver bad or disappointing news during a production. It is really important to bring it up…not to the director…but to your production boss, whoever that is. They will appreciate it even if they are initially upset. I think it is your job to deliver the truth…and any options you can provide. In production especially, time is money and wasted time is wasted money.
4. Do you have any advice for a media student who is just starting out?
Don’t expect to make much money. Keep in touch with the local film office and pay attention to the states that have big incentive programs because that is where much of the production is going to go. Take notes; don’t expect to remember everything because you think you can (an amateur mistake for sure).
Always be early. Be flexible. Be quiet. But do get to know the other PA’s…often they will recommend you (and do repay the favor) for jobs they are on. Don’t complain about the hours. Don’t make personal plans when you are working. Your supervisor does not know when you’ll go home so don’t ask.
Keep all your receipts in one place and keep them dry and neat (ziplock bag); be up to date on computer skills. You’ll be amazed how having additional skills can make you a favorite in production. If you are a PA, you can possibly rotate through various departments and determine what you like the most. Be open-minded. The Payroll Accountants (union) are really in demand.
Help everyone. Keep gas in your car at all times. Be gracious and thoughtful and courteous. Courtesy is a lost art so if you display courtesy, again, you may rise above others.
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