In the latest Beyond the Budget, we spotlight Bishop Porter, Cast & Crew’s Manager of Production Accountant Relations, whose professional journey is as inspiring as it is instructive for anyone curious about the production accounting world.
“I studied accounting in college, which is kind of rare and odd I feel like in this business,” Bishop shares. After gaining experience in a Big Four CPA firm, she realized the traditional corporate path wasn’t for her. A leap of faith soon followed. “I actually packed up my bags and moved to Shreveport to clerk on a little independent feature.” That move set the foundation for a career that blended her practical skills with her creative spirit.
Bishop reflects on the unique energy of the film world: “I think I was drawn more to being in the creative industry.” Her background in the arts, including dance, theater, and music, made production accounting the perfect fusion of structure and imagination.
When it comes to thriving in this fast-moving field, Bishop emphasizes the human element. “The one thing I really learned working in production accounting … is just being able to work with a variety of people.” She also highlights the importance of adaptability: “Being able to adapt, multitask and shift priorities as needed is so important.”
Production accounting also differs from corporate accounting in critical ways. “In this production accounting world, it's really cost accounting. We're just spending the money.” Tracking, forecasting, and reporting those costs is essential, especially when last-minute pivots are required on set.
Perhaps most touching is Bishop’s memory of staying through a film’s credits. “The movie's not over until you acknowledge all the people that it took to complete that project.” It’s a reminder that behind every story on screen is a crew of professionals, like Bishop, who make it all possible.
Watch the full conversation above or listen to the podcast below to hear Bishop Porter discuss more of the rewarding moments that make production accounting a vital part of filmmaking. And if you're a working (or aspiring) production accountant, reach out to Bishop here to learn more about The PAC, our community of production accountant peers, resources, and support built just for you.
Ready to learn more? Reach out to the Beyond the Budget team below!
