Career as Video Jockey

What: If keeping the audience and guests entertained through energetic music is the job of a DJ, a VJ is responsible for the same, but through his witty dialogues, pleasing personality, and compelling presentation. Similar to the work of a DJ, a VJ, too, has to amuse the audience with his distinct capabilities in order to keep them hooked to the idiot-box. A VJ, or a video jockey, can anchor various television programs, such as musical phone-in program, a talk show, or reality shows, wherein he/she interacts with ordinary people, either indoor or outdoor.

To become a successful and renowned VJ, an individual should possess the qualities of being passionate, vibrant, enthusiastic, eager to learn more, energetic, and amiable. Besides, one should have a great sense of humour and be a reservoir of knowledge on the subjects being discussed. The most important aspect of video jockeying is the display of confidence in front of the camera and instant wit. A video jockey not only has to perform in front of the camera, but is also required to actively participate in the pre-production work, which includes deciding the theme of the program, selecting the songs to be played, and even preparing the script.

Video jockeying has a myriad of job opportunities waiting for budding individuals. Salary of a video jockey depends on the popularity of the show. Beginners can earn around Rs. 10,000-15,000 per month. Popular shows can fetch six-figured pay packages. The best part about this profession is that a video jockey can earn name and fame upon excelling in the field, apart from mere handsome earnings.

How: A video jockey must have excellent command over the spoken words. In other words, you must have sense to present yourself in a very witty manner to hook the audience. Great body language, an amazing screen presence, sense of music and humour are also required. Good looks are not bad, if you have them, flaunt them. However, it is not a major pre-requisite. You have to be friendly, approachable and down to earth. You must have is the die-hard love for music to keep a track of the latest songs, the singers, the history of songs, musicians, singers etc. which only enriches the program. A good sense of humour, budding ideas and concepts, empathetic and sensitive attitude increases your demand in the industry.

This profession does not require any specific educational background or formal training. What one needs is an interest in music, right body language, a good voice and command over the language. Nevertheless, a background in mass communication, visual communication or performing art may help. Apart from this, a VJ can improve upon his work and voice through voice training.

Where: Video jockeying does not require any technical qualification. Anyone with excellent communication skills, great sense of music and humour, capability of voice modulation, and camera friendliness can try his/her luck in this field. However, keeping in mind the increasing need for good VJs, a number of institutions have started conducting three-month or six-month certificate programs. The program curriculum focuses on sharpening the skills of public speaking, creative writing, and overall presentation of an individual. In addition, some institutions provide training to handle other shooting apparatus.

Institutions:

• University of Calcutta, Kolkata
• University of Madras, Chennai
• MCRC, Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi
• Manipal Institute of Communication, Manipal
• Mudra Institute of Communications, Ahmedabad
• SNDT Women’s University, Mumbai
• Asian Academy of Film and Television, Noida