Behind the Lens: My Internship Experience with FPS Media Ph at ToyCon 2025

Stepping Into the World of ToyCon

ToyCon 2025, held from June 13 to 15 at the SMX Convention Center, was a celebration of fandom in all its vibrant, chaotic glory. As a junior cameraman and intern, I had the privilege of experiencing the event not as a regular attendee, but from behind the camera lens capturing stories, energy, and emotions in real-time.

The Camera Becomes My Voice

Assigned to cover various segments, I quickly learned that my camera was more than a tool, it was an extension of how I told stories. From high-energy cosplay parades to exclusive product reveals and panel interviews with creators and influencers, I was on my feet, adjusting shots and chasing the perfect angles.

This wasn’t a job you could approach casually. Lighting conditions constantly changed, crowds moved unpredictably, and the pressure to get high-quality footage never let up. But I was determined to deliver.

Challenges Behind the Scenes

Not everything went smoothly. Technical hiccups, equipment weight, and fatigue all played a part. There were moments when the audio failed or a great shot was lost due to a sudden crowd surge. But each issue became a lesson in quick thinking and professional composure skills no classroom could fully teach.

I realized that in media work, you don’t wait for the perfect shot, you anticipate it, move fast, and adapt.

Learning From the Pros

One of the best parts of the experience was working alongside seasoned media professionals. I observed how they communicated efficiently, made on-the-spot decisions, and stayed composed under pressure. Their mentorship guided me throughout the event and gave me insight into how a real media team functions during high-stakes coverage.

Capturing Moments That Matter

Some of my favorite moments weren’t even the grand ones. A kid lighting up after meeting a cosplayer, fans proudly showing off their collections, or candid reactions from artists during interviews. These simple, human moments reminded me why I chose this field in the first place. Our job was to tell the ToyCon story, and those details made it real.

A Turning Point in My Journey

ToyCon 2025 wasn’t just a pop culture convention for me. It was a pivotal experience in my growth as a communication arts student and aspiring media professional. It pushed me out of my comfort zone and into a space where I had to perform, learn, and contribute to something bigger than myself.

I walked away from those three days with more than tired feet and full memory cards. I walked away with a stronger sense of purpose, improved skills, and a deeper love for visual storytelling.