This past week I stepped into the role of being a Production Assistant (aka PA). If you are unfamiliar with what a production assistant does – to boil it down – he or she is a “gofer.” Go-for this, go-for that. A PA does what is necessary for the production of a project to run as smoothly as possible.
A new friend of mine asked me what should she do now that she has decided to pursue acting as a career. My answer to her [besides “Start Where You Are“] was learn about the business.
Acting seems to be the only profession I am aware of in which a person, myself included when I first started out, thinks he or she can come in off the street and get a role (job) without training nor connections. I know why this type of thinking persists. It is because we hear of people winning the “stardom lottery” often.
*Side note: Stardom Lottery is when a fairly unknown actor lands a leading or starring role in a well-funded and publicized film or television show.
Back to the Topic at Hand
One of the reasons I jumped at the chance to be a PA is because I want to continue to learn more about the business I’m in: Show Business. A long-term goal of mine is to produce my own content. What better way to help me achieve my goal than to assistant, learn, watch and Do-It-Yourself -> Myself.
Here’s what I’ve Learned on my PA adventure:
- Do only what you are asked to do
Everyone on set has a designated role, function or job to perform. I learned I could disrupt the production or worse screw up equipment (Yikes) if I attempted to be “helpful” in an area I am not trained. Being helpful is fine but being too helpful is dangerous. - Watch & Pay Attention
Sometimes the best way to learn something is by watching. For example, how do babies learn how to walk. First by watching, then trying until the goal (walking) is achieved. Take in what you see and observe how everyone interacts with one another. Seeing professionals in action will help in learning how to be professional.
Lastly, but certainly not the least - Be Yourself
Don’t hide your personality or who you are. Being yourself and communicating who are you and what you can do is muy importante. By doing this you show confidence and other people will be able to know, like, and trust you.
So now its your turn. Do something that will enhance your knowledge about your desired career. And tell me about in the comments. TTFN
Amanda
P.S. If you found this helpful or interesting, share it & pass it on. Wishing you good fortune on your efforts.