In a world where social media and video streaming are becoming the most in-demand services, a career in videography and cinematography is something that is becoming more lucrative than even the usual conventional jobs.
This is mainly because today the world is more interested in visuals and not just the pictures but also how you creatively deliver them. At a time when everyone is looking to start a vlog or YouTube channel, only the creative and skilled ones can thrive.
For you to get the views and rich bigger audiences, you need the skills and know-how to produce the best content. That is why today videography skills are in high demand.
From artists who want to create sleek and sumptuous music videos to agencies looking to shoot the most captivating ad or even corporates and NGOs intending to shoot documentaries about what they do, videography is a skill you can be sure pays off if well mastered.
Today, videography skills are in high demand.
Gone are the days when videographers or cameramen were seen as people who just film or videotape private ceremonies or special events, such as weddings and graduation ceremonies.
Today, corporate companies are looking for people who can tell a story through images, whether it is through documentaries or a simple advertisement that effectively communicates to the audience.
Why videography is a skill in demand
Basically, a videographer is a person who uses a video camera to record footage for weddings, documentaries, training videos, commercials, TV shows, infomercials, live events, corporate promotions, legal depositions, movies or other films.
The skill is simply in demand because with smartphones, computers and television, the majority of the people in the digital world prefer to see things in the form of pictures or visuals.
As a videographer or cinematographer, you are a storyteller. Unlike a writer for example who communicates through text and maybe a few still pictures to complete the story, a videographer is able to take the director’s vision and translate it to a visual masterpiece.
The advent of social media has made this skill not just relevant but also lucrative. Videography is the craft of capturing beautiful stories using a camera and how you creatively package it is what sets you apart.
Today we are seeing young people with the skill such as Dric Ent, Khalilu Rizinde and Gad Nshimiyimana being picked up by companies and brands to do their work, giving seniors like Meddy Saleh a run for their money.
Videography as a skill is much more than standing behind the camera or directing. Creativity is central to what you do.
To build a career in videography, you need to be an all-rounder, having an understanding of every aspect including lighting, script development, sound, accuracy, precision and flexibility to take on ideas and tasks.
With many people sensing the opportunity and venturing into the art, you need to have outstanding skills such as being a leader and decision maker, particularly on creative choices to make, especially when you work with a team of people, each with their own idea.
Other factors include being able to select the right equipment, lens and filming materials, as well as being able to guide the entire production of what you are working on. Editing skills are equally more important and knowing how to do things like animation and rendering come in handy.
With the constant growth of social media, television and film industry, advertising and general demand of documentation services, videography is highly in demand.
How to become a videographer
While some universities, including private ones, today are able to offer courses in videography and production, the skill is mostly about passion and having the right tools.
There are certain short-term courses in the form of diploma and certificates that are available in Rwanda and online for aspirants trying to find a foot in the motion picture industry.
While starting a career as a videographer may seem simple, it’s important to take the right steps toward this career path if you want to succeed.
A love of filming and a desire to help people capture their most significant moments are good reasons to choose this career path.
A formal degree isn’t necessarily required to qualify for a position as a videographer, but obtaining one can help you develop the foundational knowledge and skills you need for the role. Many employers prefer candidates who have a bachelor’s degree; although, with the right experience, you can still obtain a job in this field.
Start by identifying the industry that you want to work in, and then evaluate the educational requirements employers want to see within that industry. You can determine this by reviewing current job postings from different employers in the industry where you plan to work.
Alternatively, if you are a freelance videographer, you can consider certifications for the work you’ve done in the past. Together with links of what you have produced, you can prove to employers that you have the ability to perform the skills required for whichever role.