Reflection – Alison Cowan

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NOTE: The interview subject is Prop Master Bronte Job and the interview was supervised by Art Director Adam Chantler who also participated in the interview. Some parts of the recording were edited out due to issues around an NDA.

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Consider how your subject exemplifies best practice in their role.

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Bronte exemplifies best practices in her role as Prop Master by taking full responsibility for all props in the production while maintaining an exceptional standard of work. Her adaptability and flexibility enable her to effectively solve problems without becoming overwhelmed by unexpected challenges. Additionally, Bronte fosters strong communication with all members of the Art Department, ensuring that operations run smoothly and on schedule. She has developed an extensive portfolio and actively seeks out opportunities to learn new techniques and materials that enhance her prop-making skills. Bronte also maintains connections with industry professionals, whether they’ve crossed paths on set or share common interests. It’s not merely about adding contacts on social media; it’s essential to understand their areas of expertise and engage them in relevant projects. This approach fosters genuine professional relationships and enhances collaboration, ultimately benefiting everyone involved.

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How have they responded to the pressures and opportunities of the industry.

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Bronte has recognized the significance of delegating tasks to effectively manage her workload, emphasizing the importance of trust and collaboration within the Art Department. Given the fast-paced schedule of Home and Away, she has honed her time management skills to ensure that each episode receives the attention and care it deserves before production.

After completing her bachelor’s degree in graphics, Bronte has actively pursued opportunities to advance her career. She attended the Production Art Department, which provided her with essential skills, and subsequently secured a position as a standby props assistant at the ABC. This experience ultimately led her to her current role at Channel 7’s Home and Away.

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Additionally, Bronte has taken the initiative to create her own website and professional Instagram account to showcase her skills, which has resulted in numerous freelance opportunities. She clearly understands the importance of networking within the film industry and effectively utilizes social media to promote herself in a professional manner.

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What will you take from their experience and apply to your own understanding of the company as you progress through your placement.

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It has been enlightening to learn about Bronte’s journey into the company. One of the key takeaways is that, while Bronte followed a relatively linear path, there are various ways to become involved in the Art Department. Many individuals in this field begin as casual workers and transition to permanent positions after demonstrating their capabilities.

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Eager to work here, I see this placement as an opportunity to showcase my skills as a dedicated collaborator and hard worker, thereby maximizing my chances of securing casual employment once my placement concludes. I also recognize the value of having a personal website to highlight my work and experiences; I have already begun building one since our conversation.

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Another significant insight from my discussion with Bronte is the importance of continually developing my skill set. I enjoy experimenting with new materials and techniques, as demonstrated in my current portfolio, but I understand that expanding my skills is essential. Although new hobbies can be costly, I can explore online resources and experiment on a budget.

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From my experiences at Home and Away, I've realized that a deeper understanding of art and design enhances collaboration. It’s crucial to ask questions and seek support from coworkers to grow as a filmmaker and artist. I have already had the privilege of working with various members of the Art Department, and I’ve made it a point to ask questions and demonstrate my eagerness to learn. Even if I do not secure employment after this placement, I view this experience as an invaluable opportunity for growth and networking.

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How might this inform your own strategic career pathways?

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The insights gained from Bronte’s journey have significantly informed my strategic career pathway in several ways. First, her experience highlights the value of starting in casual roles to gain practical experience and demonstrate my skills. This reinforces my commitment to proving myself during this placement, as I recognize that establishing a strong work ethic and collaborative spirit can lead to future opportunities. Building my professional network extends beyond simply adding connections on social media; it involves understanding the strengths and expertise of those in my network. By recognizing their areas of excellence, I can actively engage them in future projects, fostering collaborative relationships that are mutually beneficial.

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Additionally, Bronte's proactive approach to building her personal brand through a website and social media has inspired me to adopt similar strategies. I have already begun creating my own website to showcase my work and experiences, which I see as essential for effectively advertising myself in a competitive industry. Furthermore, Bronte’s emphasis on continuously developing one’s skill set resonates with my passion for experimenting with new materials and techniques. I plan to actively seek online resources and budget-friendly projects that allow me to expand my expertise, ensuring that I remain adaptable and innovative in my work. Finally, my experiences at Home and Away have reinforced the importance of networking and collaboration. I intend to cultivate relationships with my colleagues by asking questions and learning from their experiences, as these connections are invaluable for both personal and professional growth.