In an effort to promote the website FreelanceArtProducer.com, we have started Freelance Friday. The purpose is to promoting the freelancers on the site so as to gain more attention for them and the others trying to get hired. So, from now on, when a freelancer on the site provides us with a blog post, we will promote it on a Friday.
Today, we are featuring Erika Henke, an art producer who has experience with both stills and video; something that is a must nowadays. She grew up in advertising, being the third in a long line of career Mad Men. As she says, ” Growing up in the “make it happen, make it great” era of advertising, I sweat the details that often spell the difference between good and great.”
To learn more about Erika, be sure to read on. And, if you think her post is interesting or the site is helpful, please do share it and let your art producer friends know about this new resource. And, if you do share it, let us know that you have done so. We have a little something for you to say thank you.
Where are you searching for photography or other content needs nowadays?
Social media has been a great source for discovering new photographers. Photography and fashion blogs, magazines and a continuing stream of referrals keep me current. My network has such a broad range of interests that I’m constantly exposed to new resources via fellow creatives.
What are you known for in the art buying/producing world?
Being upfront. With my team and my client. I champion the job with budget, scope and expectations in mind. I want each project to be a fun, pleasant experience. We all produce better work that way.
Do you have a motto?
There is always a way.
How about a favorite place to produce a shoot?
I haven’t been able to produce there yet, but I’m looking forward to a job that puts me in either Paris or the French countryside. My favorite production was on a dairy farm in rural Wisconsin. I like the challenge of producing a shoot outside my comfort zone.
If you decided not to art produce any longer, what would you choose to do?
Work in a library or with animals. Maybe a museum or something in art/design. I think I’d make a decent docent.
How do you describe your job to your mom or someone else not in the industry?
I herd cats (creative artistic types). I handle the logistics and make sure everything and everyone is in place to have my client’s vision actualized. I take an idea and collect the resources to make it a reality.
What are some surprising facts about you that you would like to share?
I’m third generation in advertising. I grew up in the business. I’ve seen it from multiple angles that provide me with a broader understanding of the big picture. I learned from my father how to work with others – to be honest as much as you can, to be kind and to do everything in your power to make it great.
What is the last piece of creative that caught your attention?
PBS has a series of global promos that feature great concepts, video and photography. Music videos and YouTube have come to be powerhouses of amateur creativity.
What do you love about your job?
The people. The relationships I continue to build on each and every job. I love the chance to work with so many talented individuals. And at the end of each project, I feel a sense of accomplishment in taking a concept and making it happen.
What is your favorite way to spend a Sunday?
Other than Brunch? If the weather is nice, I like to work in my garden or sit in the backyard with a good book.
Be sure to check out Erika’s profile on FreelanceArtProducer.com