Anne Arundel

Patti Obrow White, a filmmaker, writer and producer, was featured in the 1996 Women’s History Display Kit, produced by the Maryland Department of Education and the Women’s History Project, which was the precursor to the Maryland Women’s Heritage Center.

Her response to students who wanted to know more about her career was recorded:

Career ExperienceFor the last eight years I have been a freelance filmmaker doing documentaries for PBS, Tower Broadcasting, and ABC. For 15 years I worked for CBS News in New York, which included producing segments for the program “60 Minutes.”Career Responsibilities

It begins with an idea or story, then research, finding the people, doing interviews, filming (directing a camera crew), editing and conceptualizing the final film in the field. I also write the script and follow it through post-production – preparing for broadcast and high tech finishing in the studio for audio and video. I spend time differently each day depending upon whether the project is in development, production, or post production. Some of the most rewarding aspects of filmmaking are also at times the most challenging and/or difficult. Whenever you deal with the human element and all its uncertainties (as in documentaries) you must be prepared for all kinds of interactions. For example, in making a documentary about troubled kids, the rewards ultimately overshadow the complicated and difficult nature and emotions of the project.

Career Choice

I became interested in making films while majoring in political science at college. Studying journalism in a field project, I spent six weeks in New York City following reporters at the New York Times, ABC News and CBS News. I knew then I wanted to work at CBS. The “times” (the early 70’s) influenced my decision. My career has not changed but rather it’s evolved from political journalism to telling stories – human stories that impact all of us. In the beginning, I faced numerous difficulties being a woman in the “man’s world” of network TV. Working with all male news crews all over the world and learning how to take charge and know that you must make the decision you believe in is not easy. Once you show them you will take charge and responsibility for the work, they come to understand and react to you differently.

Career Preparation

I majored in political science and journalism in college. I am a strong believer that a background in the classic subjects that promote reading, writing, thinking and understanding is what ultimately makes one a good storyteller. Just majoring in communication and learning the technical side of the field does not give one the deeper advantage, although that information is valuable too. For women, they must compete with competency.

Career Lifestyle

When I started having children I was still working at CBS News in New York. I found it difficult to continue traveling and making it work with a small child. We moved to California where I was able to work freelance and create a schedule that worked for me. Since moving to Maryland eight years ago I have made films out of my home office and nearby studios. I’ve been able to raise two children (now 10 and 13 boys) and still do what I love doing. The most important thing to remember is that if you build your career before having kids you may have more power to direct your future (i.e., working out of the home, etc.). Yet for those that have kids and are building careers at the same time, it is important to manage your time and know what you want to accomplish.

Future Plans

I’m working on feature film development hoping to take some true life stories and adapt them for the big screen. Several are in development at this time in California.

Additional Information

The most important thing of all is that if you have the passion and love for what you do it will splash over on your work, your family, and your friends in very wonderful and life changing ways.

2026 Update:

Ms. White has continued her career and is the Co-Founder and Principal at FILMSTERS, a production and development company, operating in Annapolis, Maryland and Los Angeles. More details about her work.