How to Become a Field Producer (Call the Shots!)
If you’ve ever envisioned coordinating on-set production to create impactful media content or wondered what it takes to become a field producer, you’re in the right place.
In this guide, we’ll delve into the PRECISE steps you need to take to launch your career as a field producer. We’ll talk about:
- The skills you need.
- The education that can set you on the right path.
- How to secure a job as a field producer.
So, whether you’re an aspiring filmmaker or an industry professional looking to diversify your skillset, stay tuned.
We’re about to unravel the roadmap to becoming a field producer.
Let’s get started!
Steps to Become a Field Producer
Step 1: Research the Profession
Before you decide to pursue a career as a Field Producer, it is essential to thoroughly research the profession.
Understanding the job description, roles, responsibilities, and daily tasks can give you a clear picture of what the profession entails.
Field Producers are often responsible for finding, researching, and planning the logistics of a story or segment.
They may also have to manage budgets, hire crew, and coordinate with other professionals like directors, photographers, and reporters.
In addition, it is crucial to gain insight into the nature of the work environment.
Field Producers often work in stressful, fast-paced environments, which can involve travelling and irregular working hours.
They usually work for television or radio broadcasting networks, production companies, or news agencies.
It is also important to understand the requirements for this role.
It typically requires a bachelor’s degree in journalism, communications, or a related field, along with experience in broadcast journalism or production.
Some positions may require knowledge in specific areas, like sports, politics, or finance, depending on the content being produced.
Finally, researching the profession would also involve understanding the career progression, opportunities for advancement, and the salary range.
This step is crucial in deciding whether this profession aligns with your career goals and lifestyle.
Step 2: Obtain a Basic Education
As a basic requirement, you need to have a bachelor’s degree to become a field producer.
The degree could be in broadcast journalism, media studies, film, communications, or any other related field.
These programs provide you with a solid background in the history, theory, and skills needed in film and broadcast production.
Courses in these programs should cover topics such as television production, digital media production, broadcast writing, media theory, and multimedia reporting.
Some programs may also offer or require internships, which provide hands-on experience in the field and could potentially lead to job opportunities after graduation.
During your degree program, take advantage of opportunities to work with student media or local access television stations to gain practical experience.
This hands-on practice will be crucial in building your portfolio and developing your skills, which will be very beneficial when you start looking for a job.
It’s important to note that while a bachelor’s degree is the basic requirement, some people may land this job based on their experience and skills if they are exceptional, even without a formal degree.
However, having a degree can make the job search process easier and open up more opportunities.
Step 3: Pursue a Degree in Journalism, Communications, or a Related Field
To embark on a career as a Field Producer, you’ll need to have a solid educational foundation in Journalism, Communications, or a related discipline.
These degree programs will give you a comprehensive understanding of media production, news reporting, and effective communication techniques.
In a journalism or communications program, you’ll learn how to write news stories, understand and adhere to journalistic ethics, and use various types of broadcast equipment.
You may also have the opportunity to work at a campus radio or television station, which will provide hands-on experience.
Consider choosing courses or electives that focus on multimedia production, broadcasting, and digital media.
These will equip you with the relevant skills for field production such as video editing, sound mixing, and camera operation.
Furthermore, partaking in internships at television or radio stations can provide practical, real-world experience.
It’s also a good way to start networking in the industry.
Remember, the job of a field producer often requires on-the-spot decision-making, creativity, and excellent communication skills.
These are all competencies that can be honed through a comprehensive education in journalism or communications.
Step 4: Gain Experience through Internships or Entry-Level Positions
Becoming a field producer often requires a significant amount of practical experience in the field.
One of the most effective ways to gain this experience is through internships or entry-level positions in the media or entertainment industry.
These roles offer a hands-on learning experience, exposing you to various aspects of production, including pre-production planning, location scouting, shooting, post-production, and more.
In an internship or entry-level position, you’ll likely work under the supervision of experienced professionals, providing a valuable opportunity to learn about the industry’s expectations and standards.
You may work on different types of projects, such as documentaries, news segments, commercials, or television shows.
You could start as a production assistant, researcher, or junior reporter, which will help you learn the ropes, understand the work’s practical aspects, and build your network in the industry.
Take advantage of these opportunities to learn as much as possible, demonstrate your commitment, and gradually take on more responsibilities.
Remember, each role in the field of production provides a unique perspective and set of skills, and all can contribute to your overall competence and credibility as a future field producer.
Finally, make sure to maintain a portfolio of the projects you work on, as this can be a powerful tool when applying for more advanced roles or field producer positions.
Step 5: Develop Strong Writing and Storytelling Skills
As a Field Producer, one of your critical roles will be to craft compelling stories for different mediums.
This requires a strong foundation in writing and storytelling skills.
It’s essential to understand the fundamentals of storytelling such as character development, plot structuring, and conflict resolution.
You may need to take writing classes or workshops, or even pursue a degree in creative writing or journalism to hone these skills.
In addition, you should practice writing scripts or narratives regularly.
This could be in the form of short stories, news articles, blog posts, or even scripts for short films or documentaries.
Each of these formats will help you to understand how to communicate effectively with an audience, how to create compelling characters, and how to construct a narrative that draws in viewers.
Furthermore, in the ever-evolving media landscape, producers are often required to write across various platforms, including television, online, and social media.
Therefore, being adept at tailoring your content and storytelling to fit different mediums and audiences will be a valuable skill.
Remember, as a Field Producer, your responsibility will not only be to report the facts but also to tell a story.
Therefore, your writing and storytelling skills will be key in successfully executing your role.
Step 6: Learn Video Editing and Production Techniques
As a Field Producer, it is essential to acquire skills in video editing and production techniques.
These skills are crucial as they enable you to understand the technicalities involved in creating the desired output, thereby making you a well-rounded professional capable of handling various aspects of the production process.
Start by taking a course in video editing where you’ll learn how to use software like Adobe Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro or Avid Media Composer.
These programs are widely used in the industry for post-production work, including editing video footage, adding effects, adjusting audio, and rendering the final product.
In addition, try to gain knowledge about video production techniques such as camera operations, sound recording, lighting setups, and directing.
This broad skill set will allow you to effectively plan and execute shoots, communicate efficiently with your crew, and understand the technical considerations for achieving the desired video quality.
Consider working on independent projects or internships that can provide hands-on experience.
Experiment with different types of content and formats to broaden your skillset and understand the unique challenges of each.
Also, keep up-to-date with the latest technology and trends in the industry to ensure your skills remain relevant.
This step is not only about learning the techniques but also about understanding the storytelling aspect of video production.
Learning to tell compelling stories through visuals is an essential skill for a Field Producer.
Try to create your own short films or documentaries to practice this aspect.
By acquiring these skills, you will become more versatile, increasing your value and employment prospects in the media industry.
Step 7: Familiarize Yourself with Field Production Equipment
As a field producer, you will be expected to have a strong understanding of field production equipment.
This can range from cameras, lights, and sound equipment, to more complex technology like drones or mobile editing software.
You should spend time learning about the different types of equipment, how they work, and how to troubleshoot potential issues.
This could mean taking technical courses, attending workshops, or even learning on the job.
Knowing your way around this equipment is crucial, as field producers are often called upon to make quick decisions and solve problems on location.
Additionally, understanding the capabilities and limitations of different types of equipment can help you plan and execute shoots more effectively.
You should be able to adapt to the equipment available and make the best possible use of it.
Furthermore, staying updated with the latest technology trends in field production can give you an edge.
Technology is constantly evolving and having a grasp of new tools and equipment can increase the efficiency and quality of your productions.
In many cases, you might also be required to handle some aspects of setting up, breaking down, and maintaining the equipment.
Thus, having a hands-on experience with these tools is a valuable skill for a field producer.
Step 8: Build a Portfolio of Work
As a field producer, a strong portfolio can showcase your ability to organize and execute shoots, manage crews, and work within budgets.
You should begin building your portfolio early in your career, incorporating any experience you gain whether as part of your education, internships, or on-the-job experience.
This portfolio should demonstrate your ability to handle a wide range of tasks related to field producing, from pre-production planning to post-production follow up.
Include in your portfolio any scripts or outlines you created, behind-the-scenes photos that show you working on set, testimonials from colleagues, and, of course, the finished video products.
If you have any work that has been published or broadcast, it should be highlighted.
This could be anything from news segments, documentaries, corporate videos, commercials, or other types of media productions.
Remember, your portfolio doesn’t need to only consist of paid work.
Any relevant projects you’ve worked on, even as a student or volunteer, can be included.
The goal is to demonstrate your skills, versatility and work ethic.
Having a compelling portfolio can give potential employers a clear idea of what you’re capable of and how you can contribute to their projects.
Regularly update your portfolio as you gain more experience and work on more diverse projects.
Consider creating an online portfolio or personal website where you can easily share your work and update it as your career progresses.
Step 9: Network With Professionals in the Field
Networking is a crucial step in pursuing a career as a Field Producer.
Making connections with people who are already established in the industry can provide you with invaluable insights, opportunities, and support.
This can be achieved by attending industry events, such as film festivals, workshops, and conferences.
Joining industry-specific organizations, forums, or online communities can also provide networking opportunities.
While networking, try to build relationships with other field producers, directors, cinematographers, and other relevant professionals.
This not only provides you with a wealth of knowledge and expertise to draw from, but it can also open up job opportunities.
Remember, in the entertainment industry, often it’s not just what you know but who you know.
It is also beneficial to keep in touch with your former classmates or colleagues, as they too can be a great resource for job leads and advice.
Also, consider finding a mentor who is an experienced field producer.
They can provide guidance, advice, and may even help you find job opportunities.
Lastly, don’t forget to use social media platforms like LinkedIn to connect with other professionals in the industry.
This can be a great way to keep up to date with industry trends and job opportunities.
Networking can be a slow process, but the relationships you form can be pivotal to your success as a field producer.
Step 10: Apply for Field Producer Positions
After gaining sufficient experience and establishing strong foundational skills in film production, it’s time to start applying for field producer positions.
You can find field producer job opportunities through online job portals, industry-specific career sites, or networking events.
Be sure to tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your relevant experiences and skills.
Your resume should highlight your experience in directing, editing, scriptwriting, and managing production teams.
It should also showcase your ability to work under pressure, solve problems, and manage budgets.
The cover letter, on the other hand, should tell your story and explain why you are passionate about becoming a field producer.
It should detail your most significant achievements and projects, and how these experiences have prepared you for this role.
Preparation for job interviews is also crucial.
Be ready to discuss your previous projects, explain your decision-making processes, and demonstrate your understanding of current industry trends.
This could involve discussing your approach to producing a recent field project or how you’ve handled challenging situations on set.
Remember, persistence is key.
The entertainment industry is highly competitive, so don’t be disheartened if you don’t get a job offer immediately.
Keep refining your application materials, expanding your network, and seeking out new opportunities.
Step 11: Continuously Learn and Stay Updated with Industry Trends
As a field producer, it’s crucial to stay informed about the latest trends in the broadcasting and media industry.
This may include advancements in production technology, changes in industry laws and regulations, shifts in audience preferences, or emerging storytelling techniques.
One way to stay updated is by attending industry conferences and networking events.
These not only give you the chance to learn from leading professionals in the field, but also help you build your professional network, which can lead to future job opportunities.
Consider subscribing to industry journals and trade publications, and following relevant blogs and social media channels.
Joining professional groups and associations can also provide valuable resources and learning opportunities.
Remember, the best field producers are always learning and adapting to the ever-changing landscape of their industry.
Continual professional development is key to staying competitive and achieving long-term career success in this role.
In addition, be prepared to learn new software and tools that may be used in the field.
Technology is a major driving force in the broadcasting industry, and being tech-savvy will give you an edge in your career as a field producer.
Step 12: Consider Pursuing Advanced Roles or Specializations.
After gaining considerable experience and skills as a Field Producer, you may want to consider advancing your career or specializing in certain types of production.
For instance, you could aim for roles such as an Executive Producer or Director, which require greater responsibilities and leadership.
You may also choose to specialize in specific types of content such as news, documentaries, movies, or even multimedia productions.
Each area of specialization will require a different set of skills and expertise.
For example, if you want to specialize in news production, you would need to have a strong understanding of journalism and storytelling, whereas a documentary producer should be adept at long-form narratives and research.
To achieve these goals, you may consider further education or training programs designed specifically for your area of interest.
You can also learn on the job by working on a diverse range of projects, which can expand your production skills.
Always remember, the media industry values creativity and innovation, so constantly exploring new ideas and pushing boundaries could lead you to exciting new opportunities and career advancements.
Field Producer Roles and Responsibilities
Field Producers play a crucial role in the television and film industry.
They are involved in various stages of production, from concept development to filming and post-production.
They work closely with directors, camera crews, talent, and other production staff to ensure a smooth production process.
They have the following roles and responsibilities:
Pre-production Planning
- Coordinate and plan the logistics of filming, including arranging for locations, equipment, and other necessary resources.
- Collaborate with directors and writers in the development of the story or script.
- Research and gather information related to the project.
- Conduct preliminary interviews with potential interviewees.
On-location Filming
- Supervise and manage on-site production activities to ensure they are completed on schedule and within budget.
- Coordinate with camera crews, sound technicians, and other on-site staff to ensure smooth operations.
- Assist in setting up and breaking down of equipment.
- Interview subjects and narrate parts of the story, if necessary.
Post-production
- Collaborate with editors and directors during the editing process.
- Review and approve the final cut of the segment or film.
- Provide input on the marketing and distribution of the project.
Communication
- Liaise between the production team and other stakeholders including clients, talent, and the public.
- Document and report on the progress of the project.
- Manage potential issues and conflicts that may arise during production.
Legal and Ethical Compliance
- Ensure all production activities comply with local laws and regulations.
- Ensure content is ethically sourced and respects the rights and privacy of individuals involved.
Team Management
- Provide leadership and guidance to the production team.
- Delegate tasks and roles to team members based on their skills and abilities.
Budget Management
- Develop and manage the production budget.
- Ensure all expenses are recorded and justified.
Continuous Learning
- Stay up-to-date with the latest industry trends and advancements.
- Participate in industry events and workshops to improve skills and knowledge.
What Does a Field Producer Do?
Field Producers typically work for television networks, film production companies, or other media outlets.
They may also work as independent contractors, offering their services to a variety of clients.
Their primary responsibility is to manage the production of content outside of a studio setting.
This could include organizing and coordinating interviews, overseeing the filming of a television segment or a live event, and ensuring that all necessary equipment and personnel are in the right place at the right time.
Field Producers work closely with Directors, Cameramen, and other crew members to make sure that the shooting schedule is followed and that all scenes are shot according to the script.
They also coordinate with the post-production team to ensure the final product meets the client’s or network’s expectations.
Additionally, they are often responsible for securing permissions and permits needed to shoot at certain locations, managing the production budget, and troubleshooting any problems that might arise during the filming process.
In some cases, Field Producers may also conduct research, prepare scripts, and assist with the editing process.
Their roles may vary greatly depending on the type of production and its specific needs.
Essential Field Producer Skills
- Communication: As field producers, it’s crucial to express ideas, negotiate with sources, and collaborate effectively with the team, including directors, cinematographers, and editors.
- Organizational skills: Field producers often manage the logistics of a production, including schedules, permits, and equipment. Therefore, having strong organizational and multitasking skills is essential.
- Leadership: Field producers lead teams in the field and must inspire, manage, and resolve conflicts effectively. They need to have the ability to foster a positive and productive work environment.
- Storytelling: A field producer should have an understanding of what makes a compelling story and the ability to identify such stories in the field. They should know how to construct a narrative that keeps the audience engaged.
- Technical Understanding: Knowledge of filming equipment, camera angles, and lighting is crucial for a field producer. They need to understand the capabilities and limitations of their tools to make the best decisions on set.
- Problem-solving: Field producers face various challenges, such as unexpected weather changes, equipment failure, and other unpredictable scenarios. The ability to quickly analyze and address these issues is critical.
- Budgeting: Field producers are usually responsible for managing the budget of the production. They need to plan and control expenses effectively to ensure the production stays within budget.
- Networking: Establishing relationships with local authorities, business owners, and community members can be beneficial for securing filming permissions and sourcing local talent or information.
- Research Skills: Before going to a location, a field producer needs to conduct thorough research about the place, people, and customs to ensure a smooth and respectful production process.
- Creativity: Field producers need to bring creativity to their job, whether it’s in crafting unique storylines, discovering interesting locations, or finding innovative solutions to problems.
- Resilience: Given the high-pressure nature of the job and the potential for unexpected obstacles, being able to maintain composure and determination in the face of adversity is essential.
- Understanding of Editing: Knowledge of the post-production process can help a field producer capture footage that aligns with the desired final product.
- Knowledge of Legal and Ethical Standards: It’s crucial for field producers to understand and adhere to broadcasting laws, copyright issues, and ethical standards in journalism.
Field Producer Career Path Progression
The Foundation: Assistant Field Producer
The first step is typically as an Assistant Field Producer.
In this role, you are learning the ropes of field production and gaining valuable on-site experience.
Your responsibilities may include assisting with location shoots, handling administrative tasks, and supporting the field producer in various capacities.
Tips for success in this role include:
- Learn Continuously: Understand the technical aspects of field production and stay updated with new industry trends and technologies.
- Seek Mentorship: Learn from experienced field producers and take their guidance to heart.
- Detail-Oriented: Pay meticulous attention to detail in every task assigned to you.
The Ascent: Field Producer
With more experience, you can ascend to the role of Field Producer.
In this role, you’ll be in charge of managing shoots, coordinating with talent, and ensuring the quality of the field production.
Here’s how to excel in this stage:
- Leadership: Take charge of shoots and manage the crew effectively.
- Communication: Develop strong communication skills to interact with talent, crew, and other stakeholders.
- Problem-Solving: Be ready to solve any issues that arise on set promptly and efficiently.
Reaching New Heights: Senior Field Producer
The next level is the Senior Field Producer position.
Here, you’re recognized for your expertise and leadership in field production.
You may take on more complex projects, mentor younger producers, and make important decisions regarding location shoots.
To thrive as a Senior Field Producer:
- Mentorship: Share your experiences and knowledge with aspiring field producers.
- Strategic Thinking: Plan shoots meticulously and manage resources effectively to deliver quality production.
- Leadership: Inspire your team with your work ethic and dedication to the project.
Beyond the Horizon: Executive Producer and Beyond
As your career progresses, you may choose to become an Executive Producer or even a Director.
These roles involve greater responsibilities, including shaping the overall vision of the production, making key strategic decisions, and managing larger teams.
Key focus areas include:
- Creative Leadership: Drive the creative direction of your projects and teams.
- Management Skills: Develop strong leadership skills to guide your team effectively.
- Innovation: Stay at the forefront of industry trends and adopt innovative production techniques.
Pinnacle of Success: Showrunner or Production Company Owner
At the pinnacle of the field producer career ladder, you may find roles like Showrunner, where you’re in charge of the creative direction and overall management of a TV show, or you might own a production company.
Here, you’ll be responsible for shaping the overall strategy of the show or company, making critical creative and business decisions, and managing larger teams.
Field Producer Salary
Entry-Level Field Producer
- Median Salary: $40,000 – $55,000 per year
- Entry-level field producers typically have 0-2 years of experience and may hold bachelor’s degrees in journalism, communication or related fields. They are responsible for coordinating logistics, arranging interviews, and assisting with story planning.
Mid-Level Field Producer
- Median Salary: $55,000 – $80,000 per year
- Mid-level field producers have 2-5 years of experience and often take on more complex responsibilities such as overseeing production processes, working with a team to develop story ideas, and coordinating with the technical team.
Senior Field Producer
- Median Salary: $80,000 – $120,000 per year
- Senior field producers possess 5+ years of experience and are responsible for leading projects, directing production operations, coordinating with editors, and mentoring junior producers.
Executive Producer / Production Manager
- Median Salary: $100,000 – $160,000+ per year
- These roles come with significant experience and often involve overseeing the entire production process, making strategic decisions, managing budgets, and leading teams of producers and other production staff.
Director of Production / VP of Production
- Median Salary: $120,000 – $200,000+ per year
- These high-level positions require extensive experience, deep knowledge of the production process and often involve setting production strategies for a company or network, overseeing multiple production teams, and making key decisions to ensure successful production outcomes.
Field Producer Work Environment
Field Producers frequently work in a fast-paced, ever-changing environment.
They are often out in the field, covering various events, conducting interviews, and overseeing the filming of TV segments or documentaries.
They may work for broadcast or cable networks, radio stations, or independent production companies.
Field Producers travel frequently, sometimes at a moment’s notice, to capture breaking news or cover scheduled events.
They may work in all sorts of weather conditions and environments, from comfortable studios to remote wilderness locations or bustling city streets.
Their work schedule can be unpredictable and long, often involving nights, weekends, and holidays, depending on the needs of the production.
After gaining experience and building connections, Field Producers may advance to more senior production roles or potentially work as independent consultants or freelance producers.
FAQs About Becoming a Field Producer
What is needed to become a field producer?
To become a field producer, you typically need a bachelor’s degree in journalism, communications, or a related field, though some roles may accept equivalent work experience.
Strong communication and problem-solving skills are crucial, as is the ability to work under pressure and make quick decisions.
Knowledge of production equipment and editing software is also beneficial.
Experience in journalism or production, gained through internships or entry-level positions, is often required.
How long does it take to become a field producer?
Becoming a field producer typically involves several years of experience in journalism or production.
After completing a bachelor’s degree, which generally takes four years, many individuals start their careers as reporters, production assistants, or in similar roles to gain practical experience.
The transition to a field producer role may take an additional two to five years, depending on the individual’s progress and the opportunities available.
Do I need a specific degree to become a field producer?
While many field producers hold degrees in journalism, communications, or related fields, it’s not strictly necessary.
Practical experience, skills, and talent can often outweigh the need for a specific academic background.
That being said, a degree can provide valuable knowledge, training, and industry connections.
Alternatively, certifications from media and broadcasting organizations can also be beneficial.
Is being a field producer a stressful job?
Being a field producer can be stressful due to the fast-paced and unpredictable nature of the role.
Field producers often have to manage multiple tasks simultaneously, make quick decisions, and deal with unexpected issues that can arise during production.
However, many field producers find the role exciting and rewarding due to the creativity it requires and the chance to tell compelling stories.
What are the career prospects for a field producer?
The career prospects for a field producer are relatively positive.
With experience, field producers can move into higher-level roles such as executive producer, director, or even network executive.
Additionally, the proliferation of digital and online media outlets has created more opportunities for video content production.
However, competition for these roles can be intense, and success often depends on networking, reputation, and a strong portfolio of work.
Conclusion
Voila!
Taking the plunge to become a field producer is indeed a considerable endeavor, but it’s undeniably fulfilling.
Equipped with the right skills, education, and tenacity, you’re on the right track to making a profound impact in the broadcasting industry.
Bear in mind, the road may be tough, but the prospects are boundless. Your creativity could usher in the next groundbreaking production that transforms how we perceive, understand, and engage with the world around us.
So, take that initial leap. Immerse yourself in learning. Mingle with industry professionals. And above all, never stop producing.
Because the world is eager to see what you can produce.
And if you’re seeking personalized assistance on initiating or progressing your career in field production, explore our AI Career Path Advisor.
This complimentary tool is designed to provide tailored advice and resources to help you successfully steer your career path.
Rising Stars: The Trending Careers to Watch in 2025
The Human Edge: Professions Where AI Falls Short
Weird Work World: The Most Unconventional Jobs Ever
