Niharika Pushkarna
Glendale,CA
Summary
Dynamic Associate Producer with a proven track record of managing all phases of video and still asset production, consistently delivering high-quality content on time and within budget. Adept at coordinating complex project logistics, negotiating contracts, and ensuring efficient on-set operations.
Overview
2
2
years of professional experience
Work History
Associate Producer
AJ Films & Entertainment LLC
Los Angeles, California
06.2023 - Current
- Production Management & Execution: Managed all phases of music video and short film productions, ensuring on-time and on-budget delivery of high-quality video and still assets. Executed detailed script breakdowns, created comprehensive budgets, and developed meticulous production schedules.
- Budgeting & Financial Oversight: Developed, tracked, and controlled project budgets, consistently ensuring financial efficiency. Managed financial reporting, expense tracking, and proficiently tracked invoices for outside vendors through AP systems, ensuring accuracy and compliance.
- Resource & Logistics Coordination: Coordinated project timelines, schedules, and resources across multiple productions. Scouted and secured diverse shooting locations, negotiating contracts and permits. Managed all location logistics and on-site coordination, working closely with cross-functional departments to set up pre-production logistics.
- On-Set Operations & Leadership: Supervised and oversaw on-set production, ensuring efficient workflow, effective problem-solving, and adherence to set safety responsibilities and established EHS protocols. Coordinated crew, talent, and equipment, serving as the main on-set contact for all tasks and assignments.
- Collaboration & Communication: Liaised effectively with editors, sound designers, and VFX artists to ensure final product quality and seamless post-production finishing. Served as the primary point of contact for crew, talent, and vendors, facilitating clear and effective communication and negotiating contracts with external partners.
- Technical Proficiency: Possess a working knowledge of Adobe Premiere Pro, Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Media Encoder, and Adobe After Effects. Firm understanding of video compression and standard codecs for broadcast and online, with experience in audio sweetening and color correction for file handoff. Demonstrated proficiency with lighting techniques and camera equipment.
Wardrobe Stylist
VBVA
Los Angeles
01.2025 - 04.2025
- Collaborated closely with the director and other departments (e.g., production design, hair and makeup) to understand the character's backstory, personality, social status, and overall arc.
- Conducted extensive research on fashion trends, historical periods (if applicable), and cultural influences relevant to the film.
- Developed mood boards and visual presentations to communicate the wardrobe vision.
- Used Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook) for organizational and management tasks.
- Costume designs for each scene were created and visualized in Canva.
- Created and managed the wardrobe budget, and sourced clothing, accessories, and footwear from various vendors (costume houses, designers, vintage stores, etc.).
- Conducted fittings with actors to ensure proper fit, comfort, and character accuracy.
- Created a detailed wardrobe breakdown script outlining the specific clothing and accessories required for each scene.
- Supervised wardrobe on set, ensuring actors were dressed appropriately for each scene and maintaining continuity throughout filming.
- Coordinated and facilitated quick costume changes between scenes.
- Handled minor repairs and adjustments to costumes as needed.
- Maintained open and consistent communication with the director, actors, and other production team members.
- Returned rented or borrowed clothing items to their respective sources.
- Maintained detailed records of all wardrobe items used in the production.
- Provided personalized advice on garment selection based on individual body type, lifestyle, occasion.
- Managed the return process for customers who were unsatisfied with their purchases.
- Established strong relationships with vendors and suppliers in order to acquire desired materials within budget constraints.
- Maintained an accurate inventory of all clothing items ensuring sufficient stock levels were maintained at all times.
- Analyzed current fashion trends and used this data to develop innovative ideas for upcoming collections.
- Utilized creative problem solving abilities to quickly resolve any issues arising during on-site styling sessions.
- Coordinated and planned fashion-related events, including fashion shows, product launches, and photo shoots.
- Conducted fittings and alterations, ensuring proper fit and comfort of clothing items.
- Cleaned and pressed costumes before and after performances and performed minor repairs.
- Arranged costumes in order of use to facilitate quick-change procedures for performances.
- Reviewed scripts or other production information to determine story's locale or period, number of characters, and required costumes.
- Provided managers with budget recommendations and took responsibility for budgetary line items related to costumes, storage and makeup needs.
Wardrobe Stylist
Shehnai
Los Angeles
10.2024 - 11.2024
- Conducted thorough character research to develop unique and authentic wardrobe concepts for each character, blending Indian and American fashion influences.
- Sourced and managed the wardrobe budget effectively, securing authentic Indian garments, and contemporary clothing options from various vendors.
- Collaborated closely with the director and actors, ensuring the wardrobe choices accurately reflected the characters' personalities and cultural backgrounds, while maintaining comfort and confidence.
- Maintained meticulous records of all wardrobe items, ensuring smooth returns, and efficient post-production processes.
- Successfully navigated the challenges of representing both Indian and American cultures authentically, avoiding stereotypes, and ensuring sensitive and respectful portrayals.
Wardrobe Stylist
Smile
Los Angeles, CA
10.2024 - 10.2024
- Used clothing choices to visually represent a character's mental state, such as disheveled attire for a troubled individual, or overly neat clothing for someone in denial.
- Selected clothing that aligns with each character's personality, whether it has a rebellious streak, a desire for conformity, or a longing for normalcy.
- Designed uniforms for staff and patients that convey a sense of institutional control and conformity.
- Selected clothing for patients that reflects their circumstances and the level of care they require, such as loose-fitting garments for those who may be a danger to themselves or others.
- Choose a color palette that evokes the desired mood, whether it's a cold, sterile environment, or a more hopeful one.
- Selected fabrics that can withstand frequent wear and potential abuse.
- Ensured that the clothing is comfortable for the actors, especially in potentially stressful situations.
- Maintained consistency in a character's wardrobe throughout the film, even as their mental state may fluctuate.
- Worked closely with the director and costume designer to understand the overall vision for the film.
Wardrobe Stylist
AJ Films & Entertainment
Los Angeles
08.2024 - 09.2024
- Researched and stayed updated on current fashion trends, designers, and styling techniques.
- Sourced, selected, and organized clothing and accessories to fit specific themes and aesthetics.
- Collaborated with the director and producer to create distinctive looks for the shoot.
- Developed comprehensive wardrobe plans, style guides, and mood boards that drive the creative direction of projects.
- Leveraged excellent communication skills to effectively collaborate with other stylists on large projects.
- Created detailed reports outlining performance metrics and presented them at weekly team meetings.
- Maintained an accurate inventory of all clothing items ensuring sufficient stock levels were maintained at all times.
- Effectively managed multiple projects simultaneously while maintaining high quality standards.
- Managed the return process for customers who were unsatisfied with their purchases.
- Coordinated closely with production teams in order to ensure timely delivery of garments for photo shoots.
- Provided personalized advice on garment selection based on individual body type, lifestyle, occasion.
- Adapted quickly to changing customer needs by providing appropriate solutions in a timely manner.
- Conducted regular research activities in order to stay up-to-date on the latest fashion trends.
- Demonstrated excellent organizational skills to efficiently manage cast wardrobe selections during shoots.
Director & Writer/ Producer
AJ Films & Entertainment
Los Angeles, California
11.2023 - 08.2024
- Developed compelling scripts, storyboards, and treatments for the short film, ensuring a strong narrative and visual foundation.
- Conducted in-depth research to ensure factual accuracy and creative storytelling, incorporating relevant cultural, historical, or social contexts.
- Collaborated closely with the producer to refine scripts, maintain creative vision, and secure funding.
- Managed pre-production logistics including location scouting, casting, crew hiring, and equipment rentals.
- Led all aspects of film production, from pre-production to post-production, ensuring smooth and efficient workflow.
- Provided clear direction to actors and crew to achieve desired creative outcomes and maintain artistic integrity.
- Maintained a positive and collaborative work environment for the entire production team.
- Ensured adherence to safety protocols and maintained a safe and professional working environment on set.
- Oversaw the post-production process including editing, sound mixing, color grading, and music composition.
- Worked closely with the editor to refine the film's narrative and pacing.
- Ensured the final film met the highest creative and technical standards.
- Directed all aspects of the project, including planning, budgeting, staffing, scheduling, monitoring, and reporting.
- Negotiated contracts with vendors, suppliers, customers, and partners effectively.
- Provided leadership in times of crisis or change initiatives.
- Created and managed budgets, ensuring financial targets were achieved.
Wardrobe Stylist
Inward Walls
Los Angeles
07.2024 - 07.2024
- Collaborated with the director to develop the visual aesthetic and wardrobe for the main character, reflecting his emotional journey from a carefree, outgoing individual to a withdrawn, introspective state.
- Sourced and acquired a diverse range of clothing and accessories to accurately represent the character's evolving style, from casual streetwear to more subdued, comfortable pieces.
- Conducted fittings with the actor to ensure proper fit and comfort, overseeing alterations as needed to achieve the desired look.
- Managed the wardrobe department on set, ensuring that costumes were clean, ironed, and ready for each scene.
- Provided creative direction for the character's wardrobe, coordinating with the hair and makeup teams to create a cohesive overall look.
- Managed the wardrobe budget, optimizing costs while maintaining the highest quality standards.
Wardrobe Stylist
Tere Liye
Los Angeles
06.2024 - 07.2024
- Collaborated with the director and production team to develop authentic and culturally appropriate wardrobe choices for the Indian couple, reflecting their socioeconomic status, personal style, and emotional journey.
- Sourced and procured appropriate clothing, accessories, and footwear to align with the characters' backstories and specific scenes, including traditional Indian attire and contemporary Western wear.
- Oversee fittings and alterations to ensure a perfect fit and comfortable wear for the actors, particularly considering the emotional and physical demands of the scenes.
- Provided on-set styling and wardrobe maintenance, making adjustments as needed to accommodate changes in weather, lighting, or directorial vision.
- Researched and adhered to cultural nuances and sensitivities related to Indian clothing, customs, and etiquette, to ensure accurate and respectful portrayal.
- Managed the wardrobe budget efficiently, prioritizing purchases and rentals to maximize resources.
- Worked closely with the director, producer, and other department heads to ensure the wardrobe aligned with the overall vision of the project.
- Utilized creative problem solving abilities to quickly resolve any issues arising during on-site styling sessions.
- Analyzed current fashion trends and used this data to develop innovative ideas for upcoming collections.
- Effectively managed multiple projects simultaneously while maintaining high quality standards.
Wardrobe Stylist
What's life
Los Angeles
06.2024 - 06.2024
- Researched and developed detailed wardrobe concepts for each decade, aligning with the character's evolving journey and societal trends.
- Sourced authentic vintage garments and accessories from various periods, ensuring historical accuracy and visual appeal.
- Collaborated with production teams to create custom pieces when necessary, bridging gaps in available vintage stock.
- Maintained meticulous records of all wardrobe items, including detailed inventories and condition reports.
- Oversee the organization and storage of costumes, ensuring proper care and preservation.
- Managed efficiently, and handled fittings, alterations, and on-set wardrobe changes.
- Collaborated closely with the director and actors to ensure that wardrobe choices enhanced character development and storytelling.
- Provided timely wardrobe changes and adjustments during filming, adapting to unexpected circumstances, and maintaining continuity.
- Addressed any on-set wardrobe issues or challenges, offering creative solutions to maintain the integrity of the character's look.
- Participated in post-production reviews to ensure the accuracy and consistency of the wardrobe throughout the film.
- Analyzed current fashion trends and used this data to develop innovative ideas for upcoming collections.
- Implemented effective strategies aimed at increasing customer loyalty through ongoing engagement initiatives.
- Coordinated closely with production teams in order to ensure timely delivery of garments for shoots.
- Leveraged excellent communication skills to effectively collaborate with other stylists on projects.
- Collaborated with DP, makeup artists and designers to ensure a successful outcome for each project.
1st Assistant Director (Short Film)
Across The Line Timing
Los Angeles
04.2024 - 05.2024
- Collaborated with directors and producers to break down the script, analyzing scenes, identifying required crew, equipment, and locations.
- Developed and managed the production schedule and budget, ensuring efficient resource allocation and adherence to timelines.
- Assisted with location scouting, securing permits, and coordinating transportation and accommodation for the crew.
- Assisted in hiring key crew members, negotiating contracts, and completing all necessary paperwork.
- Coordinated equipment rentals, ensuring timely delivery and return, while staying within budget.
- Obtained and maintained all necessary permits and insurance for the production.
- Managed all on-set activities, ensuring a smooth workflow and adherence to the production schedule.
- Coordinated and supervised all departments (camera, sound, lighting, grip, etc.), ensuring clear communication and efficient collaboration.
- Identified and proactively addressed potential and actual production challenges, such as scheduling conflicts, equipment malfunctions, and unforeseen circumstances.
- Prioritized safety on set, ensuring compliance with all safety regulations, and implementing necessary safety measures.
- Maintained order and discipline on set, ensuring a professional and productive working environment.
- Ensured the well-being of the cast and crew, addressing any concerns or issues promptly.
- Maintained clear and consistent communication with the director, producer, and all departments throughout the production.
- Supervised camera operators during filming to ensure smooth execution of shots.
- Resolved conflicts between crew members while maintaining a professional atmosphere on set.
- Coordinated transportation needs related to location shoots and talent travel arrangements.
- Communicated effectively with producers, directors, actors and crew to ensure efficient workflow.
- Organized and coordinated day-to-day operations of filming sets, including actors, props, equipment, and other resources.
- Utilized advanced software programs such as Final Cut Pro or Avid Media Composer for editing purposes.
- Reviewed call sheets before distribution to confirm accuracy of information provided therein.
- Assisted in developing shooting scripts by providing input on potential cost savings options.
- Developed detailed plans for scenes involving stunts or special effects.
- Collaborated with production team to determine props and appropriate costumes.
- Managed day-of productions by directing actors and talent.
- Performed administrative duties, such as preparing operational reports, distributing rehearsal call sheets and script copies and arranging for rehearsal quarters.
1st Assistant Director
Lipstick on a Pig (Short Film)
Los Angeles
03.2024 - 04.2024
- Developed and maintained the daily production schedule, ensuring all crew members and talent knew their call times and shooting locations.
- Coordinated location scouting and secured the necessary permits.
- Arranged transportation and accommodation for the cast and crew.
- Assisted in the hiring and onboarding of key crew members (e.g., camera operators, grips, sound recordists).
- Prepared and distributed call sheets to all crew members.
- Assisted the producer in tracking and managing the production budget.
- Identified and mitigated potential production risks and challenges.
- Maintained order and discipline on set, ensuring a safe and efficient working environment.
- Enforced adherence to the production schedule and call times.
- Communicated with all departments to ensure smooth, coordinated production.
- Assisted with actor blocking and movement.
- Communicated the director's notes to the actors clearly and effectively.
- Ensured actor comfort and well-being on set.
- Negotiated contracts with vendors for the acquisition of necessary materials and services.
- Maintained accurate records of budgeting and expenditures for the film's production.
- Coordinated transportation needs related to location shoots and talent travel arrangements.
- Communicated effectively with producers, directors, actors and crew to ensure efficient workflow.
- Provided guidance regarding scheduling issues such as weather delays or actor availability.
- Monitored progress of editing teams to ensure timely completion of post-production tasks.
- Conducted regular meetings with cast and crew members to discuss upcoming scenes or challenges.
- Managed staff activities to ensure compliance with safety regulations and union requirements.
- Assisted in developing shooting scripts by providing input on potential cost savings options.
- Organized and coordinated day-to-day operations of filming sets, including actors, props, equipment, and other resources.
- Oversaw daily production reports from each department head as well as weekly wrap reports.
- Reviewed call sheets before distribution to confirm accuracy of information provided therein.
- Resolved conflicts between crew members while maintaining a professional atmosphere on set.
- Developed detailed plans for scenes involving stunts or special effects.
- Participated in pre-production planning meetings to conduct script read-throughs and casting sessions.
- Attended casting sessions to identify actors for film projects.
- Reviewed and edited footage, assessing for appropriate effects and animations.
- Monitored filmmaking spending by adhering to strict budgetary controls.
Education
Completed Coursework Towards Master - Film and Media Production
New York Film Academy
Los Angeles, CACompleted Coursework Towards Bachelors - Media and Journalism
GD Goenka University
Gurugram, IndiaSkills
- Production Management (Video & Still Assets)
- Pre-Production, Production, & Post-Production Oversight
- Budgeting & Financial Management
- Schedule & Timeline Coordination
- Resource Allocation
- Location Scouting & Management
- Contract Negotiation & Compliance
- On-Set Operations & Coordination
- Crew & Talent Management
- Logistics Planning
- Script Breakdowns
- AP System & Invoice Tracking
- Waivers & Releases Management
- Set Safety & EHS Protocols
- Adobe Premiere Pro
- Adobe Photoshop
- Adobe Media Encoder
- Adobe After Effects
- Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint
- Video Compression & Codecs
- Post-Production Finishing (Audio Sweetening, Color Correction)
- Lighting Techniques
- Camera Equipment Operation
- Quality Control
- Problem-Solving
- Analytical Skills
- Interpersonal Communication (Written & Oral)
- Time Management
- Adaptability
- Leadership
- Team Management
- Risk Management
- Creative Vision
- Attention to Detail
- Project Ownership
- Working Under Tight Deadlines
Timeline
Wardrobe Stylist
VBVA
01.2025 - 04.2025
Wardrobe Stylist
Shehnai
10.2024 - 11.2024
Wardrobe Stylist
Smile
10.2024 - 10.2024
Wardrobe Stylist
AJ Films & Entertainment
08.2024 - 09.2024
Wardrobe Stylist
Inward Walls
07.2024 - 07.2024
Wardrobe Stylist
Tere Liye
06.2024 - 07.2024
Wardrobe Stylist
What's life
06.2024 - 06.2024
1st Assistant Director (Short Film)
Across The Line Timing
04.2024 - 05.2024
1st Assistant Director
Lipstick on a Pig (Short Film)
03.2024 - 04.2024
Director & Writer/ Producer
AJ Films & Entertainment
11.2023 - 08.2024
Associate Producer
AJ Films & Entertainment LLC
06.2023 - Current
Completed Coursework Towards Master - Film and Media Production
New York Film Academy
Completed Coursework Towards Bachelors - Media and Journalism
GD Goenka University
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