Coming into this course, I expected to learn more about writing press releases, pitching journalists and getting my client’s story in front of the right audience. With my background in public affairs, consulting and video production, I wanted to strengthen how I bring those skills together. This course met those expectations by giving me the opportunity to build a media relations campaign for Pixel Perfect Photography. Developing the strategy, key messages, FAQs and media list helped me understand how much preparation goes into making a story useful to the media.

The assignment I got the most out of was creating the video news release and bringing everything together in the media library. I enjoy working with photography and video, so this part of the course gave me room to use my creativity with a clear purpose. Planning the b-roll made me think about what each shot needed to communicate. Working with Swanzetta as my spokesperson also gave me an opportunity to connect the interview with the visuals supporting the story. Seeing the finished VNR on my website made the work feel more complete.

Building the media library helped me think from a journalist’s perspective. Someone visiting the page should be able to find the photos, press release, quick facts and contact information without having to search all over the website. Even details like photo credits and usage guidelines serve a purpose. I wanted the page to represent Pixel Perfect professionally while giving people information they could actually use.

One thing I wish I had done better this month was give myself more time for revisions and organizing materials as I went. There were several assignments that eventually became parts of the same media library. Keeping the files, captions, links and updated versions organized earlier would have made putting everything together easier. I also would have liked more time to step away from each assignment and review it with fresh eyes. Moving forward, I want to set earlier personal deadlines so I have time to check accuracy, improve the presentation and make thoughtful revisions before submitting or publishing.

This course helped prepare me for my career by strengthening the connection between creative work and communication strategy. Through Madison Consulting Firm, I want to help clients communicate clearly and build relationships with their audiences. Researching journalists and developing targeted pitches helped me practice explaining why a particular story matters to a particular outlet. A local television reporter may need a different angle than a photography trade publication. Preparing FAQs also reminded me to think beyond what a client wants to say and consider what people will actually ask, including difficult questions.

Over the next five years, I think one of the biggest challenges for public relations professionals will be managing AI-generated content while protecting public trust. This course included using AI to simulate an interview with the client’s owner, which made transparency especially relevant. That content needs to be clearly labeled so people understand how it was created.

My concern is that convincing images, videos and statements could make it harder for audiences to know what is authentic. PR professionals will need to verify information, explain how content was produced and take responsibility for what they publish. For me, that means using AI thoughtfully while keeping human judgment involved. I want the work I create to be something my clients can stand behind and their audiences can trust.