What Producers Do: Roles, Responsibilities, and How to Become One

Written by Daisie Team

Published on 21 June 2023 6 min read

Have you ever wondered what do producers do in the entertainment industry? Producers play a pivotal role in bringing various creative projects to life, be it music, film, or television. In this blog, we'll explore the different producer roles, their responsibilities, and how you can become one. Let's dive in!

Producer Roles

Producers come in many forms, depending on the industry they work in. While their core responsibilities may overlap, each type of producer has unique tasks and goals. Here are three common producer roles:

Music Producer

A music producer is responsible for overseeing the entire process of creating and recording a song or an album. They work closely with artists, musicians, and sound engineers to shape the sound and direction of the music. Some of their tasks include:

Helping artists develop their musical ideas and style
Selecting and arranging songs for an album
Coordinating recording sessions with musicians and engineers
Guiding the mixing and mastering process to achieve the desired sound

Film Producer

In the world of film, a producer takes care of the business aspect of making a movie. They're involved in every stage, from development to release, ensuring that the film comes together on time and within budget. Here's what film producers do:

Finding and developing a script or story idea
Securing financing for the project
Hiring key crew members, such as the director, cinematographer, and cast
Overseeing the production process, from pre-production to post-production

TV Producer

TV producers work on television shows, whether they're scripted dramas, comedies, or reality series. They manage the creative and logistical aspects of producing a show, collaborating with writers, directors, and other production staff. Some of their responsibilities include:

Developing a show concept and pitch
Working with writers to develop episode scripts and storylines
Coordinating the production schedule and budget
Ensuring that each episode meets the network's standards and deadlines

Now that you know what do producers do in each of these roles, let's explore the responsibilities they share across different industries.

Producer Responsibilities

While the specifics of each producer role may vary, there are some common responsibilities that producers share, regardless of the industry. Let's take a look at these key tasks:

Project Management

Producers are responsible for managing the entire process of a creative project. This involves setting timelines, allocating resources, and coordinating the efforts of various team members. They need to keep everything on track, ensuring that deadlines are met and the project stays within its budget.

Budgeting

Money matters, and producers are in charge of creating and managing budgets for their projects. They need to plan the allocation of funds, ensuring that every aspect of the project—from hiring talent to securing locations—has the necessary financial resources. Producers also need to keep an eye on expenses, making sure the project doesn't go over budget.

Team Collaboration

Producers work with a diverse group of creative professionals, such as artists, writers, directors, and technicians. Their role is to facilitate communication and collaboration, fostering a positive and productive work environment. They also help resolve any conflicts or issues that may arise among team members.

Creative Direction

While producers may not be directly involved in the artistic process, they play a crucial role in guiding the overall creative direction of a project. They collaborate with the creative team, providing feedback and input to ensure that the final product aligns with the intended vision. This involves making tough decisions and sometimes even taking risks in the pursuit of excellence.

Now that we've covered the main responsibilities of producers, let's discuss how to become one.

How to Become a Producer

Becoming a producer takes a combination of education, experience, and networking. Here are the steps you can follow to start your journey:

Education and Training

While there's no specific degree required to become a producer, it's helpful to have a background in film, television, music, or a related field. Many aspiring producers earn degrees in subjects like film production, communication, or business management. Additionally, attending workshops or industry events can help you develop the necessary skills and knowledge.

Networking

Connections are vital in the entertainment industry. To build your network, attend industry events, join professional organizations, and make use of social media platforms like LinkedIn. Don't be afraid to reach out to people who share your interests and goals, as they may become valuable connections later on.

Developing a Portfolio

Having a strong portfolio is essential for showcasing your skills and experience as a producer. This can include any projects you've worked on, such as student films, music demos, or independent productions. Be sure to highlight your specific contributions and the results you achieved.

Finding Opportunities

Look for internships, entry-level positions, or freelance gigs in the industry to gain hands-on experience. These opportunities will not only help you build your resume, but also allow you to learn from seasoned professionals and make valuable connections.

Finally, let's explore some top schools for aspiring producers.

How to Become a Producer

Becoming a producer takes a combination of education, experience, and networking. Here are the steps you can follow to start your journey:

Education and Training

Networking

Developing a Portfolio

Finding Opportunities

Now that you know how to become a producer, let's explore some top schools for aspiring producers.

Top Producing Schools

Attending a reputable school can be a great way to kick-start your career as a producer. Here are a few top schools known for their excellent programs:

New York Film Academy

The New York Film Academy offers a variety of programs in filmmaking, producing, and screenwriting. Their hands-on approach to learning and access to industry professionals make it a popular choice for aspiring producers.

University of Southern California

USC's School of Cinematic Arts is renowned for its comprehensive programs in film and television production. With state-of-the-art facilities and a strong alumni network, USC is an excellent choice for those looking to break into the industry.

UCLA

The School of Theater, Film, and Television at UCLA offers a wide range of programs, including film production and producing. Their strong emphasis on storytelling, collaboration, and real-world experience make it an ideal choice for aspiring producers.

By following these steps, attending a top school, and gaining valuable experience, you'll be well on your way to understanding the answer to "what do producers do" and becoming a successful producer yourself. Good luck!

Top Producing Schools

Attending a reputable school can be a great way to kick-start your career as a producer. Here are a few top schools known for their excellent programs:

New York Film Academy

University of Southern California

UCLA

By attending one of these top schools, gaining valuable experience, and building your network, you'll be well on your way to understanding what do producers do and becoming a successful producer yourself. Good luck on your journey!

If you're excited about diving into the world of film production, don't miss the workshop 'Film Production 101: A Beginner's Guide' by Jessy Moussallem. This workshop will provide you with a comprehensive introduction to the essentials of film production, setting you up for success in your filmmaking journey.