Sunday, September 18, 2011

Book Distibution has a Problem?

At Full Sail University, where I am finishing up my Master's program in Business Entertainment, I am currently taking a Media Publishing and Distibution Course.  In this course we often discuss Publishing and Distribution in the following industries of entertainment; print, music, film, and games.  I for one tend to focus a bit more in the print industry.  


The print industry appeals to me due to my background in writing.  I have taken several courses in creative writing as well as professional writing.  I have a background in Mass Communications and Sociology from the University of Central Florida.  During which, my thought process in one day publishing my very own story and eventually book was made possible.


I have yet to publish any work.  However, the interest in doing so is very much alive.  The thing that has held me back is of course the dedication in writing a piece of work and being satisfied with completion.  It is no secret that writers are never done writing.  We tend to edit, and edit again, knowing we can do better and communicate in a more creative and intelligent form.  A writer or any artist, often times competes with one self and is his or her own toughest critic.  


When one is ready to publish, one must consider distribution channels.  In the article, "Indie Publishing: The Problem With Distribution", it discusses the need to understand publishing and media enterprise.  Author, Joel Friedlander, explains; "in order to operate profitably within this system, a publisher has to identify books that will have a very broad appeal, market these books to a national audience, print and distribute enough of these books to take advantage of mass media exposure, [and] absorb the losses on all “losers” by using the profits from big “winners.”  This basically suggests, that as an independent publisher, it is very important to know how to market your book or it may not succeed once published.  


The article continues to describe the "new world of publishing" in which independent publishers may be able to succeed through its "new world" distribution channels such as; amazon.com, the internet, social media, and ebooks.  Friedlander states, "[a]ll this has created what you might call a golden age for indie publishing. As long as indie publishers understand the nature of the book distribution that’s available to them, and exploit the advantages they have over larger publishers, amazing sales can be the result." 


As we have grown familiar with Mass Media and the world of Publication, we must also open our eyes to the many distribution channels being offered through the web today.  Book distibution may be a problem to some, but to others it is but a challenge.
   

Drea Considers Castng Director

During my time at edgefactory Omnimedia, I had the opportunity to assist the Creative Director.  I would assist in searching for props and materials for shows, book hair and make up artists, search for images to be used in film, as well as search for talent.  


I realized that I enjoy every bit of my work, but my favorite was that of finding the talent.  I enjoy bringing the client or direcrtor's image to life by realizing their needs as well as their taste and feel for the project.  This was by far my favorite part of work.  To what others call work, I call play time.  


Since I was a little girl, I would watch the Miss America and Miss Universe Pageants.  I would always know whom were going to be the top finalists.  As I child I knew that I wanted to work in the entertainment industry.  At first, like most in the industry, wanted to be the one in the lime light.  However, over the years, I began to understand my talents. 


My experiences include; acting, singing, dancing, modeling, drawing, painting, and writing.  A few of these, I have gotten a bit rusty at due to lack of practice.  I believe that to entertain, is like being an athlete; one must practice and compete in order to eventually be the best when its time to perform.  I understand the importance of discipline and perserverance.  


Being a part of the entertainment is hard work that takes much dedication both on stage and back stage.  I applaud the script writers, directors, and composers, for they are the master minds or the puppet masters in what is being performed for all to see.  It is their ideas in collaboration with collegues and assistants working together in order for it to all come together as it should.  The vision needs to be realized.


I have found that I understand both on stage and back stage roles fairly well.  I have learned that I have a keen eye and talent for pulling it all together.  That is why I believe that in my chosen career field of entertainment, I may be a skilled Casting Director.  I enjoy making people's dreams come true as well as understanding the needs of the client.  I have the experience and the talent, a sixth sense in recognizing what talents will be right for the task; just as those chosen in beauty pageants.  


I understand that this position requires much patience for it does not always take a day to find the right talent for the job.  I understand that working with creative indviduals may not be a pleasant task and once again, patience is required.  I understand how the attention working with talents may require, again, I know I posses such patience to work cooperatively.  Patience is a skill I have not acquired over the years, but one that has been gifted to me early on in my life.  


After my experices as both a Model Scout and a Communications/Production Coordinator, I feel that I have found my calling as a Casting Director.  I have been told that I am a very well connected individual and I use my networking skills whenever I can.  I appreciate business from anyone, as I believe we all have a need for one another.  This skill will enable me to be resourceful in working with others in search of acquiring the talent.


To know more about Casting Directors and their roles, please visit: http://filmtvcareers.about.com/od/basics/p/CP_CastingDir.htm and http://www.wisegeek.com/what-is-a-casting-director.htm