Many people who work in modern media want to become a digital media director. This is a fairly new position, created with the invention and widespread adoption of digital media. The term digital media is used to describe the Internet, electronic videos, podcasts, audio files, and emails. The primary responsibilities of a digital media director include the creation and management of digital projects, support of online media outlets, and integration of online and offline media.
The creation of the digital media has revolutionized advertising, newspapers, magazines, and other communication media. There are two primary sources of employment once you become a digital media director: corporate work and independent freelance work. Both career options have their own benefits and risks, and most people who want to become a digital media director will shift back and forth between the two.
In a corporate setting, the digital media director is responsible for managing the corporation's brand in the digital landscape. This may include control of the website, podcasts, advertising campaigns, and social networking. Some firms allow the director a great deal of creative control, while others may provide the strategic plan and expect the director to implement.
As a freelance worker, a digital media director can create his or her own work, select projects that are of personal interest, and work creatively. However, this type of work is not very consistent, and a significant amount of effort is required to create a sustainable living as a freelance worker. The primary benefit is the ability to build a portfolio of your work.
The first step to become a digital media director is to complete formal training in visual arts. There are a handful of digital media programs available at the community college level, but formal training in the visual arts will provide the skills required. Completion of part-time courses in the technology of the digital artist is all that is necessary to make the transition.
Gaining experience in this field is typically achieved through freelance work. Most people work on a combination of independent and paid projects. The purpose of the independent work is to build a portfolio and development of professional skills. Paid projects may not provide the same degree of creative freedom, but help to build a reputation as a professional.
Many people take the additional step of publishing their portfolio on the Internet, and making connections through social networking sites to let potential customers known about their work. In addition to this new method of finding clients, building industry connections and local advertising are still the best ways to increase your professional profile. Talk with other people in the industry to learn about other methods to help you become a digital media director.