Multimedia producers use their skill and creativity to bring a cross-platform project into being from start to finish. This job description will explain the duties and qualifications of a multimedia producer working in a typical production house.
1. Knowledge
- As the name suggests, multimedia producers have experience with various forms of media. These include, but are not limited to, video and still photography, video and audio editing, Web design, graphic arts and animation, scriptwriting and interactive media. You may not be an expert in every area, but you should have a working knowledge of multiple platforms.
- It’s important to at least understand a wide range of software. You should be well versed in nonlinear video editing and the basics of video production. Adobe Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro and various Avid products are popular digital video editors. Some other commonly used programs include Adobe Photoshop and Adobe After Effects for graphics, as well as Adobe Flash and Adobe Dreamweaver for Web design.
2. Project Management
- A multimedia producer is essentially a team leader or project manager. This will likely include working with and managing a team of people who specialize in certain areas of media production.
- Meeting deadlines and keeping the project within a budget are also common responsibilities. Because a multimedia producer can wear many hats, it’s important to be able to multitask and remain organized. You’ll often find yourself working on numerous projects at different stages during the same day.
3. Phases of Production
- Multimedia producers play an important role in each of three phases in the production process: preproduction, production and postproduction.
- Preproduction is the planning phase. Your job is to help develop the concept behind the project, and decide what forms of media will be used. This usually involves processes like scripting, storyboarding, budgeting and setting deadlines.
- During actual production, the multimedia producer may take on the role of director. This phase involves the creation of individual elements that will make up the final product. This would include shooting video, creating graphics and recording voice-overs.
- In postproduction, all the various media elements are brought together to create a final product. The video is edited and color corrected; graphics are finalized and inserted into the project; websites are published and disks are authored.
4. Working with Clients
- Since most multimedia producers work for commercial production houses, a lot of time is spent working with clients. You will have to meet with the client during all phases of production to make sure what’s being produced meets expectations. A good producer knows how to take a client’s ideas and make improvements.