Over the past two weeks, I’ve had the opportunity to work on a variety of shoots, each presenting unique challenges that tested my adaptability, problem-solving skills, and ability to work under pressure. From dealing with last-minute technical malfunctions to navigating difficult shooting conditions, I’ve learned that sports media production is often unpredictable but that’s also what makes it so rewarding. One of the biggest takeaways from this experience has been the importance of staying calm and adjusting on the fly. When helping Tanner Mountz with his package, we encountered an unexpected microphone failure just as his interview subject arrived. With time running out, I had to quickly step in, set up my own camera and mic, and ensure Tanner could still conduct his interview as planned. Moments like these reinforced the value of being prepared for anything and thinking quickly under pressure.
Another lesson came from my time shooting at Blackwater Falls with Jackson Holden. The rain was relentless, making it incredibly difficult to film without risking damage to our equipment. I had to find creative solutions, like squeezing under a small overhang to set up my camera and using my phone for additional footage when conditions wouldn’t allow for traditional shots. While not ideal, these adaptations allowed us to still produce quality content despite the less-than-perfect circumstances. It was also a reminder that sometimes, you just have to embrace the elements and make the most of what you have. Working with Jamie Green on his wrestling package gave me the chance to focus on interview framing and explaining key filming techniques to a classmate, Reilley. Walking Reilley through the process of setting up an interview shot reinforced my knowledge while also giving me a sense of responsibility in helping others improve their skills. It was a different type of challenge, one that involved communication and mentorship rather than simply executing a task. Similarly, assisting Georgia Hensley at Cary Gym allowed me to refine my technical skills, particularly in troubleshooting minor audio issues and experimenting with shot composition to create a more dynamic visual.
Beyond the individual shoots, I also had my first experience with a full show taping. Coming into the day, I was a little nervous, but I trusted what I had learned during practice and had confidence in my classmates. By the second take, I could feel the chemistry between Maggie, Tyler, and me improving, and everything started to flow naturally. Seeing our class come together and produce a polished show reinforced how much progress we’ve made this semester. As we continue to refine our work, I’m going to focus on shooting more close-up shots and cutaways, as well as encouraging reporters to be more interactive in their stand-ups to keep the energy high on the screen.
Overall, these past two weeks have reinforced my passion for sports media production. I’ve grown more confident in my ability to handle challenges, whether they be technical difficulties, environmental obstacles, or fast-paced shooting schedules. I’ve also gained a deeper appreciation for collaboration, whether it’s working with reporters to get the best shots or helping classmates develop their skills. Moving forward, I’m excited to continue honing my craft, pushing myself outside my comfort zone, and finding new ways to elevate the quality of my work. This experience has shown me that in sports media, nothing ever goes exactly as planned but if you stay adaptable, keep learning, and embrace the unexpected, you’ll always find a way to get the shot.