A production designer creates and establishes the aesthetics of a production, including the design of sets, and collaborates with various professionals. They should have design knowledge and communication skills, and can start as a production assistant in low-budget projects.
A production designer is a person who works to create and establish the aesthetics of a production. These professionals may be responsible for developing the design of movies, television (TV) shows, music videos or advertisements. Production designers may also be called “art designers” because the positions’ primary responsibilities may be similar or shared.
Generally, a production designer is tasked with establishing the setting and style of a film, including the overall design of the sets. Before starting a project, production designers can take time to create a design concept, which will influence subsequent decisions regarding production design. In certain situations, production designers may collaborate with directors when creating the concept. Regardless of whether the director’s input is respected, the design concept will be used by members of the art team to make production choices and create visuals. Conceptual sketches or models can illustrate the design concept and help employees better understand and follow the concepts.
Production designers are expected to work collaboratively with individuals above and below their positions in the project hierarchy. For example, a production designer might meet with producers, directors, and cinematographers to decide on the feel of a film while working with set designers, decorators, real estate masters, graphic designers, pattern makers, modelers, costume designers, and others. vision a reality. Production designers may also direct the location manager, hair and makeup stylists, and special effects director to ensure that all elements of a film are organized and tied together.
A production designer’s final responsibilities can vary across projects and industries. In some productions, the production designer is almost entirely responsible for the aesthetics of the project. In other productions, a production designer’s responsibilities are reduced. Typically, production designers whose assignments are limited often work with a director with established visual styles.
Those interested in pursuing a career in production design should have a working knowledge of design fundamentals. Students interested in pursuing production design can specialize in architecture, environmental design, or theatrical set design. It is also suggested that future production designers develop communication skills, because an integral part of the job is developing concepts and effectively communicating them to everyone from producers to production crew members. Graduates looking to start a career in production design should consider becoming a production assistant for hands-on training. Recent graduates can look for job opportunities in low-budget films, commercials or music videos.
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