Education | May 22, 2018

Career Spotlight! Agricultural Communications

Levy Randolph & Tiffany Rogers-Randolph tell us about their careers as videographers and what it takes to get into the field!

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We interviewed Levy Randolph and Tiffany Rogers-Randolph to learn more about their careers in Ag Communications!

1. What is your job?

On paper, our job will list us as videographers and/or photographers depending on the project, but we like to think of our job as being story-tellers. Paradigm Productions is a full service production company that focuses on capturing the story and messages that our clients wish to share.

2. What do you get to do day to day in your job?

Our day-to-day job is partly routine and partly unique to each client. Our routine includes editing videos and photos, responding to client emails, and pursuing new relationships with potential clients. The unique part relates to the projects that we get to carry out. Every project is different, so we spend a lot of time discussing how we plan to carry out the project itself. These conversations involve researching the brand of the client, the expectations of the client, and what we need to do to help the client achieve their goal.

3. What kind of technology helps you day to day?

Our job is technology. From editing software to motorized gimbals, agricultural communications is steeped in technology. We use cameras, computer systems for stabilization and movement, audio equipment, and editing software to name a few. The tools we use are constantly changing and evolving as new programs and products become available. We strive to remain relevant and constantly improve our final product through technological advances.

4. What different skills do you need to be successful?

A large portion of our job relies on technical skills to capture content and in the post-production process. There is also a need for strategic and critical thinking to plan how to effectively and efficiently bring a project to life. Resource management and organization are also necessary. We also prioritize communication skills and as a result, take pride in the relationships we are able to build with our clients. You must be willing to explore your creativity and allow your passion for the project to propel your work forward. As with any creative field, there is an element of risk, you must be willing to experiment and embrace a growth mindset.

You must be willing to explore your creativity and allow your passion for the project to propel your work forward.

5. What kind of classes should students take if they are interested in your field? 

If students are interested in agricultural communications, especially college students, they should take communication related classes. This includes video production and photography classes. Additionally, students should look to see if their programs offers design classes, social media classes, web design courses, and definitely writing classes. If they are able to take these classes in the context of agriculture, then they will be even more effective as industry practitioners.

6. What is your favorite part of your job?

Our favorite part of the job is getting to see so many different people be passionate about their jobs and the impact they have on both our nation and our world. We get to share stories in an engaging and visual way, but we sincerely enjoy being able to enter these individual’s homes, get to know their families, see them in their element, and learn even more about the agriculture industry (which we love).

7. Why should students learn about agriculture?

If students are looking to grow and be challenged by doing something that truly matters, then agriculture may be the place for them. Through hands-on experiences, agricultural education allows students to learn both technical and professional skills that are transferable outside the classroom walls whether that is in one of the 300 careers in the agriculture industry or beyond. It is so rewarding to be a part of the community the feeds, fuels, and clothes our world.

Watch a video by Paradigm Productions! 

Explore even MORE ag careers and ag career resources!

Play My Little Ag Me on My American Farm!

About Levy Randolph and Tiffany Rogers-Randolph

Levy and Tiffany are story telling-enthusiasts who aim to create paradigm-shifting media dedicated to the agriculture industry through their company Paradigm Productions. Levy and Tiffany are both pursuing a Ph.D. in agricultural communications at the University of Florida.

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