Interview with Robyn Beck of Austin Texas

Robyn Beck
Freelance Producer


1. Can you briefly define your job to me?

I am currently a Freelance producer (among other things: Art Director and Wardrobe Supervisor). I work mostly with productions companies that do web videos for corporations in Austin, Texas. Training videos, marketing videos, sales videos, product videos, commercials and PSA's. When I receive a project, I act as the "project's mother" and I carry it from pre-production, production, post production and final delivery. I coordinate everyone involved with the project such as writers, crew, talent, editors, graphic artists, musicians, animators, etc., based on the projects creative discretion. I coordinate all of their time and build production calendars that everyone MUST stick to. I also develop the budgets for the projects and am the main contact and face to the client. Also, put out any fires that may occur and manage all media and information that needs to be considered for the video. It's extremely multi-faceted and you may never know what's around the corner. You not only need to know how to do your job well, but you have to learn and be an expert about other people's professions and subjects. We're are here to tell other people's stories. Which is what's most fascinating about the occupation.

2. How did you get started in this business?

I attended school at the University of Texas and majored in Design. It was a very broad major focusing on every aspect of design. Eg. Graphic design, web design, urban design, product design, you name it. I was required to find a internship my senior year and drove by a company called Elephant Productions every day on my way to school. I interviewed with them and was hired. During my time there, I found myself loving production and coordinating and soon became an associate producer, and then a producer. I was also very lucky because Elephant also allowed me to use my graphic skills in video, DVD menus, print brochures, and websites. I worked for Elephant Productions for 7 years and am now a freelancer (which means I work for all kinds of companies on an "as needed basis" or from project to project).

3. How do you tell someone over you (your boss) that you can't accomplish an assigned task?


Honesty is the best policy. Be up front with your employer while also being accommodating. For example, I have lots of companies ask me to edit things as well. I'm not an editor, however, I know edit software and can piece things together. What I say to them is, I am not a true editor and may not be able to do some things for you , however, I can string along a time line and if you provide someone for me to ask questions if I get stuck , I can definitely help you out. Or sometimes I say, you know, I'm not that great of an editor and my not feel comfortable taking on such a task. However, I know a great editor that will charge a reasonable rate. Would you like me to contact them? Always have a back-up solution if you don't feel capable of something.

4. Do you have any advice for a media student?
Yes, get as much real world experience now while you are a student. I cannot stress this enough! The industry is competitive and the more you know and the more versatile you the better. They don't teach you in school about how the business works and you will really only achieve this by diving right into the real world. Get as many internships that you can at media and production companies. Learn as much as you can, as much software as you can. I wear many hats and it definitely pays off. It also looks fantastic on your resume coming out of school. Not many people will hire you with just school experience, trust me I've been the one hiring before.