A set designer coordinates costumes, sets, backdrops, and props for theater, TV, or film, working with the director and other team members. They ensure all functions work together to present the tone and setting of a show, and can start their career as costume or stage designers. Training involves a theater-focused degree and gaining experience. The role of set designers varies regionally and depends on the size of the production. Skills needed include clothing making, design, and knowledge of historical periods and settings.
A set designer is responsible for coordinating the costumes, sets, backdrops, and props for a theater production, television show, or film. The overall look of a production, show or film is determined by a set designer who works with the director, producers and other team members such as set and costume designers. The mood, time period and themes of a production are brought together by a set designer.
In any production many different people are responsible for a variety of roles in costumes, sets, music and sound. The set designers’ job is to ensure that each of these functions are working together towards the same presentation of the tone and setting of a show. They can decide the direction a production will take, or they can work more as facilitators of the director’s or producer’s vision for the production. The setting and period of a show determines the type and style of all costumes and props used by actors and designers.
Training to become a set designer usually involves participation in some type of university degree program with a focus on theater. Many of the skills used daily in set design duties are learned over the course of gaining experience working in theater production. Set designers can start their careers by working first as costume designers or costume designers. Skills learned in these areas can be easily applied later on, because the set designer’s job description includes directing the direction of the costumes and presenting the background.
There are regional differences in the role and use of scenographers. In some areas, a set designer is always used and it is a critical job in the production of a production. Jobs covered by the profession in other fields are highly compartmentalized and managed by many different people, each working in their respective fields. The size of a production can also determine whether set designers are used to produce a play, musical or show. Smaller scale shows may not have the budget for the job, while larger scale productions need the function of coordinating all the different areas to produce a fluid presentation of tone, style and setting.
Skills needed to start the job include clothing making, design skills, and knowledge of historical periods and settings. Starting early in their careers, set designers may actually be in charge of sewing and assembling costumes alongside other designers. In addition, they can work directly on creating sets and collecting appropriate accessories. Once experience is gained, a set designer can advance further into a management-level role in coordinating the production.
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