Industry Jobs | Line Producer

As one of the premier studio production companies in New York, Broadway Stages works to meet the growing needs of the film and TV industry while also focusing on the needs of our community. We provide the industry with a soundstage or location where they shoot their scenes, but they also need a skilled and experienced workforce. In this series, we look at the various jobs that make a production come to life. We hope it provides insight and encourages you to consider a career in the film and TV industry. This week, we look at the role of a line producer.

What Does a Line Producer Do?

In our Industry Jobs series, we have looked at the roles of various department heads on a film or tv production set, from gaffer and production designer, to costume designer, visual effects, craft services, and more. Each is tasked with developing and executing their respective department’s plan throughout various stages of production, including staying on schedule and on budget. This week, we look at a leadership role that ensures all these areas are working as planned, and that is, the line producer. When the credits roll on a film, you probably notice there are several types of producers listed and might wonder what they each do. For example, there is the executive producer, typically concerned with financing the production. And there is the producer, involved on the creative side. Then, there is the line producer, the key role concerned with budget and logistics. But why is it called the “line” producer? According to MasterClass, “The line producer acts as the liaison between the above-the-line talent (actors, writers, and directors) and the below-the-line positions (location scouts, makeup artists, and sound editors, for example).” This leadership role is key to a production’s overall success and requires superhero-like planning skills as they oversee major aspects of the production, from scheduling and budgeting, to staffing and equipment, safety compliance and insurance, and more. The line producer reports to the producer, and is involved with the development, pre-production, production, and post-production stages of a film. Let’s take a closer look at what this job entails.

Job description

In the development stage, the executive producer and producer hire the line producer, who breaks down the script to develop the initial shooting schedule and budget that the executive producer uses to raise money for the film.

In the pre-production stage, the line producer has a lot to do. They must first set up the production company and handle associated items such as establishing an office and bank account, and securing a lawyer, payroll company, and necessary insurance. They work with the 1st assistant director (1st AD) to break the down the script in more detail related to the shooting schedule, location, times, talent needed, etc. This helps the line producer land on a final budget, in which they will include a contingency for unforeseen expenses. At this stage, the line producer will also assemble a production team, and hire department heads with whom the line producer will work closely to ensure all is on schedule and budget throughout the production. The line producer is involved in other aspects during this stage, like location scouting and negotiating with vendors for equipment needed by each department.

In the production stage, the line producer transitions to the role of making sure all their planning is executed successfully. This includes daily meetings with department heads, making sure payroll is on time (to avoid the production being shut down by a film union), making sure required breaks are taken (to avoid union penalties), and ensuring compliance with health and safety procedures. 

For the post-production stage, a post-production supervisor takes the lead, however the line producer still plays a key role. They hire post-production staff, including editors, composers, and sound designers. StudioBinder notes that in the post-production stage, “Line producer responsibilities include obtaining a post-production facility and ensuring the delivery of production materials.” They will also finalize (or wrap) the budget.

How do I become a Line Producer?

In addition to a deep understanding of the film production process, this leadership role requires strong planning, budgeting, networking, negotiating, and communication skills. A knowledge of health and safety requirements is also important. There is no formal education required for this job, however film courses can be helpful to learn about filmmaking, and business courses can be helpful to learn about finance and other topics relevant to the job. This leadership role requires gaining on-the-job experience and working your way up through various roles, for example, production assistant, location manager, production coordinator, production manager, etc.

Read more about the skills and training needed to become a line producer at MasterClass, StudioBinder, ProductionBeast, and MediaMatch. Read about the experiences of Line Producer Siddharth Ganji on Careers in Film. Learn about film and TV industry jobs, training, and more in the Broadway Stages’ Industry Resource Guide. Our guide provides information about industry-focused job posting sites; links to general recruiting sites; education and training programs; and state, city, and borough industry information.

Industry Jobs | Craft Services

As one of the premier studio production companies in New York, Broadway Stages works to meet the growing needs of the film and TV industry while also focusing on the needs of our community. We provide the industry with a soundstage or location where they shoot their scenes, but they also need a skilled and experienced workforce. In this series, we look at the various jobs that make a production come to life. We hope it provides insight and encourages you to consider a career in the film and TV industry. This week, we look at craft services and the role of a key crafty.

What is Craft Services?

Our previous posts have looked at numerous roles in the film and television industry and how they each contribute to bring a production together. From camera, grip, and electric, to art, wardrobe, special effects, and more, the individuals working on a set have one thing in common: they need to eat and stay hydrated. One of the roles that supports this need is craft services (or “crafty” for short).

What Does Craft Services Do?

The “craft” in craft services comes from a reference to the distinct jobs of many of the individuals for whom the food is being provided, such as camera, grip, electric, and so on. Whereas catering involves preparing and serving full meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) to ensure that cast and crew receive needed sustenance at these key mealtimes, craft services is a separate function that provides snacks and drinks throughout the day. This is a key need on a set, where cast and crew work long hours and are not able to step away to find food or beverages between mealtimes or might be so busy they cannot partake in the catered meals on offer. Craft services also provides a central place where cast and crew can gather and casually socialize. NOTE: Changes implemented to meet COVID-19 safety measures are not addressed in this piece.

The craft services setup can take various forms, such as a simple table, a special room, or a trailer. No matter the form it takes, it is key that the area be well- stocked throughout the production day, providing a variety of portable food and beverages for the busy, hungry cast and crew. This can include candy, sandwiches, snack bars, healthy options like fruit and vegetables, and other items the production specifically requests, as well as the key staples of coffee, tea, and water. The lead role for craft services is the key crafty.

What is a Key Crafty and How Do I Become One?

CareersinFilm.com features an insightful interview with key crafty Heather Lapp, who has provided craft services to “Sorry for Your Loss,” “The Catch,” and “People Like Us.” She explains that the unit production manager typically hires key craft services, however, if you have a good reputation, producers might specifically request you be hired. She points out that the job requires long hours, arriving before everyone else, with an emphasis on getting beverages (water and coffee), as well as trash, set up first thing in the morning. And after a long day of providing drinks and snacks and interacting with numerous cast and crew members, it is usual to leave after everyone else. She describes the challenges of working within various-sized budgets, which can be difficult when trying to supply healthier food options and environmentally friendly supplies, which can cost more.

There is no specific degree or education required to be a key crafty. Lapp highlights that experience working with customers is helpful, as well as having an interest in food. If you are interested in working in craft services, Lapp suggests joining on as a 3rd or 4th craft service to assist on jobs that need more help. And, as we have noted for other on-set roles, Lapp suggests becoming a production assistant (PA). As a PA, one can network with the key crafties to develop contacts that could result in job opportunities. She also discusses how to get on with the union that represents crafties, the IATSE Local 80. To learn more firsthand about Lapp’s experience and advice, read the CareersinFilm.com interview.

As a lead position, key skills important for this role are being able to manage a budget, good communications skills, and overall being personable, as you will interact with many different people each day. And, of course, a knowledge of food safety is crucial.

More information

Learn more about the history of craft services and how it differs from catering at MasterClass. Read more about the importance and benefits of providing food onset at this VMG Studios blog post. And, as always, you can learn about film and TV industry jobs, training, and more in the Broadway Stages’ Industry Resource Guide. Our guide provides information about industry-focused job posting sites; links to general recruiting sites; education and training programs; and state, city, and borough industry information.

Industry Jobs | VFX Supervisor

As one of the premier studio production companies in New York, Broadway Stages works to meet the growing needs of the film and TV industry while also focusing on the needs of our community. We provide the industry with a soundstage or location where they shoot their scenes, but they also need a skilled and experienced workforce. In this series, we look at the various jobs that make a production come to life. We hope it provides insight and encourages you to consider a career in the film and TV industry. This week, we look at the role of visual effects (VFX) supervisor.

What is a VFX Supervisor?

Our last post in this series looked at the role of the special effects coordinator and how they and their team create practical effects or (SFX) that are the physical effects created during filming, such as explosions, fire, rain, monsters, etc. In this post, we look at the area of visual effects (known as digital effects or VFX). These are computer-generated effects that create elements that don’t exist, or cannot be easily depicted, in real life. Although these effects are added during post- production, they require planning and involvement during the pre-production and filming stages. The role that oversees these activities and the visual effects team is the VFX supervisor.

What does a VFX Supervisor do?

As the lead, the VFX supervisor works with others involved in the production, such as the director, producer, director of photography, first assistant director (or first AD), production designer, post-production supervisor, and VFX artists. As with the special effects coordinator, the VFX supervisor plays a key role in the planning and oversight of the effects added by their team, and also manages budgets and hires a team. They need to be involved in the pre-production stage to determine what visual effects will be needed for the film. In this Backstage piece, VFX supervisor Rob Legato (“Apollo 13,” “Titanic,” “The Jungle Book”) shares his experience and tips and notes how the VFX supervisor plays a key role in finding digital solutions when “something is too expensive, too dangerous, or too time-consuming to do.”

It is also important for the VFX supervisor to be involved during production to ensure scenes are filmed in such a way that the digital effects can be added in post- production. For example, in this Careers in Film interview, Kevin VanHook (“I, Robot, “ “Rizzoli & Isles”) describes how he prevents potential post-production issues, such as when lighting bounces off a green screen in such a way that it would cause difficulties for the visual effects artists. That leads us to the post- production stage, where the supervisor oversees the visual effects artists who add the digital effects “using computer imaging, motion capture technology, and animation” according to this Backstage overview of the supervisor’s role and responsibilities.

How do I become a VFX Supervisor?

As with other industry lead roles, there isn’t a specific degree required to be a VFX supervisor, however, studies in film production, computer graphics, or related areas are helpful. This role requires many years of experience, and there are various ways to establish a career path, such as starting out working as a roto artist or animator, gaining experience and working up within the field to supervisory positions. It is important to network to establish contacts in the industry and to have a reel showing examples of your work.

Key skills for this lead role include artistic skills, such as a knowledge of design, color, animation, and cinematography, as well as a knowledge of visual effects software and the ability to continually learn new technology and tools. Since this is a supervisory role, it is important to be a good communicator and collaborator as you work with others, and to have planning and organizational skills. Learn more about what it is like to be a VFX supervisor and the experience and skills needed at Careers in Film, Backstage (here and here), and ScreenSkills.

More information

Read about the visual effects used in two productions filmed at Broadway Stages in this Hollywood Insider interview with VFX supervisors from “The Flight Attendant” and this Autodesk interview with the VFX supervisor from ”Luke Cage.” Learn about the history of visual effects in this Hollywood Insider article, and see this StudioBinder article that provides more detail about what VFX is and describes three main types of effects: CGI, compositing, and motion capture, providing video examples. And, as always, you can learn about film and TV industry jobs, training, and more in the Broadway Stages’ Industry Resource Guide. Our guide provides information about industry-focused job posting sites; links to general recruiting sites; education and training programs; and state, city, and borough industry information.

Industry Jobs | Special Effects Coordinator

As one of the premier studio production companies in New York, Broadway Stages works to meet the growing needs of the film and TV industry while also focusing on the needs of our community. We provide the industry with a soundstage or location where they shoot their scenes, but they also need a skilled and experienced workforce. In this series, we look at the various jobs that make a production come to life. We hope it provides insight and encourages you to consider a career in the film and TV industry. This week, we look at the role of special effects coordinator.

What is a Special Effects Coordinator?

Our last post in this series looked at the roles of the key hairstylist and key makeup artist and how they and their teams ensure actors achieve and maintain the desired looks needed for a production. In some cases, these looks might include features such as scars or wounds, or even other-worldly creatures or monsters, requiring special effects makeup. In addition to this special makeup, the world of special effects (also known as practical effects or SFX) comprises many other physical aspects that happen during filming. (These days, the everyday filmgoer might think that most effects they see on screen are digitally produced — think explosions, fire, rain, monsters, etc. — but that is not the case.) According to MasterClass, some common physical special effects techniques used are: designing creatures, manipulating the environment, conducting vehicular stunts, depicting weather elements, and using miniatures, pyrotechnics, or stop motion. These are not the same as visual effects (known as digital effects or VFX), which are computer generated and added during post-production (and will be the subject of a future post). The role that oversees the special effects department is the special effects coordinator (or supervisor).

Job Description

As the department lead, the special effects coordinator is involved in the pre-production and production stages and works with other lead roles, including the director, director of photography, production designer, and art director. The coordinator plays a key role in the planning and execution of the various special effects. According to this Backstage article, the coordinator “oversees the design, creation, and operation of on-set mechanical, electrical, artificial, and explosive effects throughout a production.” This includes determining what equipment and crew will be needed, putting together a team of special effects technicians, such as stuntmen and robotics operators, planning the budget, and — of utmost importance — ensuring that the effects can be accomplished safely. Read more about the responsibilities of a special effects coordinator on MasterClass and Backstage.

How do I become a Special Effects Coordinator?

As with other industry lead roles, there isn’t a specific degree required to be a special effects coordinator, and there are various ways to establish a career path. This lead role requires many years of experience, working varios positions within the special effects department. In this recent LA Times article, several special effects pros offer advice on working in the field and suggest that some ways to get started are attending trade school, having experience in engineering, carpentry, or by working as a production assistant. MasterClass recommends that a degree in industrial design, animation, engineering, or film is helpful. Backstage adds that an educational background in the subjects of electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, physics, biology, and chemistry is helpful, and emphasize the importance of education and training “in hazardous equipment, such as explosives, safety protocols and regulations, and sciences.”

Key skills for this lead role include creativity and a knowledge of the various special effects and equipment used. And as practical (SFX) and visual (VFX) effects are commonly combined, it is helpful to develop digital skills to understand how these two areas work together, as noted in the previously mentioned LA Times piece. As the department lead, this role requires good communication, planning, and organizational skills.

More information: To see examples of various special effects in film, see this StudioBinder article. And, as always, you can learn about film and TV industry jobs, training, and more in the Broadway Stages’ Industry Resource Guide. Our guide provides information about industry-focused job posting sites; links to general recruiting sites; education and training programs; and state, city, and borough industry information.

Industry Jobs | Key Hairstylist and Key Makeup Artist

As one of the premier studio production companies in New York, Broadway Stages works to meet the growing needs of the film and TV industry while also focusing on the needs of our community. We provide the industry with soundstages and locations where they shoot their scenes, but they also need a skilled and experienced workforce. In this series, we look at the various jobs that make a production come to life. We hope it provides insight and encourages you to consider a career in the film and TV industry. This week, we look at the roles of key hairstylist and key makeup artist.

What do Key Hairstylists and Key Makeup Artists do?

PHOTO CREDIT: ARMENNANO VIA PIXABAY

Our last post in this series focused on the role of costume designer and how they and their team manage the actors’ wardrobe and accessories, contributing to a believable look and feel in a film or TV production. Two additional elements that help the actors portray their characters effectively are their hair and makeup, which are two distinct activities under the purview of, you guessed it — the hair and makeup department! The lead roles in this department are the key hairstylist and key makeup artist. From natural looks to the use of wigs and prosthetics, to more complex special effects, the hair and makeup crews use their creativity and artistry to help the actors transform into their characters and maintain their looks throughout filming.

Job description

As leads in their department, the key hairstylist and key makeup artist collaborate with each other, and report to the production designer. They are involved at the pre-production and production stages. They first need to read the script to understand the characters’ hair and makeup needs relative to the time period, location, and genre depicted in the production. Next, they conduct research to reference images so they can create the hair and makeup plans for the actors. These leads are typically responsible for attending to principal actors’ hair and makeup and being on set during filming to do needed touch-ups, while they will delegate to and oversee the other stylists who take care of the additional actors. They will also ensure continuity of the hair and makeup during filming.

How do I become a Key Hairstylist or Key Makeup Artist?

PHOTO CREDIT: STOCKSNAP VIA PIXABAY

As these are lead roles, the individuals should possess hairstyling and makeup artistry skills, knowledge, and experience. The key hairstylist should be experienced with not only cutting, coloring, and styling hair, but also possess a knowledge of working with and maintaining wigs and bald caps. The key makeup artist should be experienced with applying and removing various types of makeup and prosthetics and have a knowledge of how to address skin conditions and allergies. And, as lead positions, it is important to be flexible and have a good attitude and effective communication skills as they work with actors, hair and makeup team members, and others on set, often under tight deadlines and in close quarters.

No formal educational degrees are required for these roles; however, cosmetology school is helpful in both the hairstyling and makeup fields to learn needed skills, practice techniques, and prepare for any required licensing exams or certifications (check with your state/local government for local requirements). These key roles require experience which can be gained in different ways, including working in hair and makeup jobs outside the film and TV industry, working on student and low- budget films, and getting industry experience as an on-set hairstyling assistant or PA, or a makeup assistant or assistant makeup artist. In these ways, individuals can make connections and ultimately work their way up within the hair and makeup department. It is also important to maintain a portfolio showing the range of hair or makeup looks one has created. Note that makeup artists are responsible for supplying the makeup, brushes, and other tools they will use on set, so they need to build a toolkit containing those items.

More information. Find overviews of the key hairstylist and key makeup artist roles on Backstage (here and here) and MasterClass (here and here). Find general information about hairstylist and makeup artist roles on Media Match (here and here).

Read about hair department head LaWanda Pierre’s experiences and get her advice in this interview. Learn about the different types of makeup artists, what’s in a kit, information about joining the union, and other resources in this article. And, as always, you can learn about film and TV industry jobs, training, and more in the Broadway Stages’ Industry Resource Guide. Our guide provides information about industry-focused job posting sites; links to general recruiting sites; education an training programs; and state, city, and borough industry information.

Industry Jobs | Costume Designer

As one of the premier studio production companies in New York, Broadway Stages works to meet the growing needs of the film and TV industry while also focusing on the needs of our community. We provide the industry with a soundstage or location where they shoot their scenes, but they also need a skilled and experienced workforce. In this series, we look at the various jobs that make a production come to life. We hope it provides insight and encourages you to consider a career in the film and TV industry. This week, we look at the role of costume designer.

What does a Costume Designer do?

Our last post in this series focused on the props manager role and how they and their crew enhance the physical set and scenery that the actors interact with, further creating a believable world within the production. Additional physical items on the set include the wardrobe and accessories worn by the actors. These items are managed by the costume designer and their team, which can include wardrobe supervisors and trainees, seamstresses, and costume assistants. What an actor wears is an important element of telling a production’s story and shaping an actor’s character. From ensuring historical accuracy and reflecting a character’s evolving look over a specific timeline, to determining color palette, materials used, and more, the costume designer is a key art department role that works with other departments to develop and execute a cohesive look and feel in a production.

Job description

pHOtO CREDIT: dean moriarty via pixabay

The costume designer works closely with key roles, including the director, production designer, and director of photography, and maps out plans for each character’s costume (called costume plots). The costume plots reflect color, style, and character evolution across the various scenes. This stage requires research to ensure the costumes and the garment construction methods are accurate to time period and location being depicted. The costume designer provides hand drawn or digital renderings of the costumes to the director to secure their approval. As they execute the costume plan, the costume designer will need to determine whether the costumes are to be bought or made, arrange for purchase or creation, and see that the actors get fitted. Additionally, they will likely be on set when the costumes are first worn, to ensure proper fit and the actor’s comfort in wearing the garment. Also, as a leadership role, the costume designer will be responsible for budget management, scheduling, hiring suppliers and costume makers, selling, or otherwise disposing of the costumes, and ensuring safety protocols are followed by their team. Hear firsthand about what it is like to be a costume designer in this Costume Designers Guild interview with Academy Award-winner Alexandra Byrne (“Elizabeth,” “Elizabeth: The Golden Age,” and “Mary Queen of Scots”), in which she discusses her experience, key aspects of the job, and advice to those pursuing a career as a costume designer.

How do I become a Costume Designer?

PHOTO CREdit: Shelley evans via pixabay

As with other lead industry roles, costume designers need a broad range of skills, knowledge, and experience. It is important to be creative, with an understanding of fashion, color, fabric, clothing construction, and costume history. Also, it is important to possess the ability to draw, and it is useful to know how to use software to create digital renderings. As a lead role, it is important to have good planning, organizational, and communication skills when working with team members and others. Being skilled at conducting research and having a knowledge of industry safety protocols is also necessary.

No formal educational degree is required for this role, but it can be helpful to attend design school to learn needed skills and to get work opportunities or apprenticeships through the school. Experience in related areas including fashion and theatre or graphic design can also be helpful for someone wishing to break into a costume design career. A good way to enter the career path for this role is to start as a production assistant and work your way up through various costume related roles, gaining experience and contacts as you develop your career, and creating a portfolio to display your work. Working other jobs on set can be helpful to learn the various aspects of film production that a costume designer will need to be familiar with.

More information. Find advice, and learn more about the role of a costume designer, including job responsibilities, skills, and experience needed, at Backstage (here and here), Careers in Film, Mandy, MasterClass, Media Match, and Screen Skills. Learn about film and TV industry jobs, training, and more in the Broadway Stages’ Industry Resource Guide. Our guide provides information about industry focused job posting sites; links to general recruiting sites; education and training programs; and state, city, and borough industry information.

Industry Job Focus | Props Manager

As one of the premier studio production companies in New York, Broadway Stages works to meet the growing needs of the film and TV industry while also focusing on the needs of our community. We provide the industry with a soundstage or location where they shoot their scenes, but they also need a skilled and experienced workforce. In this series, we look at the various jobs that make a production come to life. We hope it provides insight and encourages you to consider a career in the film and TV industry. This week, we look at the role of a Props Manager.

What does a Props Manager do?

In our last blog, we looked at how the artistry and creativity of scenic artists add detail and texture to a production’s physical set to create a believable depiction of the unique world of a TV show or film. Adding additional layers to this believability is an art department team that is responsible for the physical property that the actors interact with – this is the property, or “props” department. From animals, documents, and food, to sunglasses, sports equipment, candles, badges, weapons, and more, the list of items that the props department manages is diverse and seemingly endless.

Job description

The lead role in the props department is the props manager (also known as the props master). The props manager works closely with the production designer, art director, and others to determine what props will be needed and whether the props need to be bought or made. This will entail managing the budget and doing research to ensure the props are accurate to the production’s time period, location, or other specific aspects. Additionally, the props manager will need to arrange for the purchase of any props that need to be bought, and to secure and manage the services of manufacturers for any props that need to be made. They will then need to organize the props for efficient retrieval as they are needed on the set, and ensure they are removed when production is wrapped up. Keep in mind that there will need to be multiple back-up props in case of damage, so the props manager is responsible for a large inventory. Further, an important element of the role is to ensure safety protocols are followed by all those handling the props.

Depending on the size and budget of the production, the props manager might be responsible for overseeing individuals handling specialized props, such as food, animals, or weapons, or they might need to handle these props directly. Similarly, on a smaller production, the props manager might even need to make the props themselves! Learn more about the job responsibilities of a props manager at MasterClass, Backstage, and Screen Skills. Watch a good overview about the importance of props from this Raging Cinema video, “Why Props Matter,” which provides film examples of the many different kinds of props that can be used and how they serve as an integral part of telling a film’s story. Also, see this Great Big Story video, “Making a Paper Trail,” in which paper props artist Ross MacDonald discusses the many props, such as books and documents, that he has created over the years. You are sure to see many familiar images in these videos!

How do I become a Props Manager?

The role of props manager requires a broad range of knowledge and experience. As a lead role, you need to possess planning, organizational, and communication skills as you work with your team and others. Additional skills that are important in this role include conducting research, learning the intricacies of the various props and how they work, the ability to negotiate pricing as you purchase props, and knowledge of industry safety protocols, including receiving firearms training and certification.

To become a props manager, you need to have experience, which will require working your way up within the art department, doing various props-related jobs to learn the industry. Also, working in a props warehouse will be helpful to gain experience. In addition, it will be important to develop a network of craftspeople and manufacturers to fulfill your props needs. A degree is not required for this role, but training in fine arts or design is helpful, as is participating in an apprenticeship program. For more information on how to become a props manager, see Media Match and MasterClass. Finally, for a fascinating look at the skills and responsibilities of professional prop managers, read this Mental Floss article, “11 Behind-the-Scenes Secrets of Prop Masters.”

Learn about film and TV industry jobs, training, and more in the Broadway Stages’ Industry Resource Guide. Our guide provides information about industry-focused job posting sites; links to general recruiting sites; education and training programs; and state, city, and borough industry information.

Industry Jobs | Scenic Artist

As one of the premier studio production companies in New York, Broadway Stages works to meet the growing needs of the film and TV industry while also focusing on the needs of our community. We provide the industry with a soundstage or location where they shoot their scenes, but they also need a skilled and experienced workforce. In this series, we look at the various jobs that make a production come to life. We hope it provides insight and encourages you to consider a career in the film and TV industry. This week, we look at the role of a Scenic Artist.

What does a Scenic Artist do?

In our last blog, we looked at how the Construction Manager and crew create or enhance the physical sets on which productions take place. In this post, we focus on the individuals who use their creativity and multiple artistic skills to add details and texture to those physical sets, making the world of a production come to life in a believable way. From painting large background landscapes that convince you the actors really are in a particular location,  creating a marbled look so you think you are seeing a real column, to faux tiles and details like wood grain or a weathered look on an old farmhouse, Scenic Artists make it happen.

Job description

Taking the lead on the activity is the Key Scenic Artist, who works closely with the Construction Manager and typically reports to the Production Designer or Art Director. The Key Scenic Artist leads the team of Scenic Artists, making sure they execute the needed effects. As a lead position, the Key Scenic Artist will likely be involved in managing a budget and the purchase of materials, as well as ensuring safety protocols are being followed by their team as they work with paint and other materials.

Before the Scenic Artists do their work, a set will likely consist of blank walls and surfaces. The Scenic Artists use paint to transform these surfaces, adding depth, contrast, and texture to deceive the eye. Examples of projects that Scenic Artists might be called to work on include:

• painting backdrops (think of a sunny or cloudy sky; natural settings such as the mountains, the ocean, or a forest; a cityscape; the inside of a castle or a spaceship; or anything you might see through a window in a scene)

• painting props with faux finishes and effects (such as the marble column, faux tiles and old farmhouse previously mentioned).

Read more about the job responsibilities of a Scenic Artist at Media Match and Art Departmental (which also features descriptions of related industry painting jobs). Hear firsthand about the job from this LA Times video interview with Hollywood Scenic Artist Mike Denering in which he describes how they effectively used a painted cityscape for the film “Die Hard” and painted a sunset for the film “Lemony Snicket's A Series of Unfortunate Events.” And watch this Variety video interview with Scenic Artists working on an LA Opera production of “Macbeth” to learn how they created the details and effects to be seen by an audience.

How do I become a Scenic Artist?

To become a Scenic Artist, you need to possess comprehensive artistic skills, including painting techniques, color mixing, sketching, sculpting, and other techniques like marbling and texturing. You will also need to be able to take ideas from small-scale to large-scale. A knowledge of art history and architecture will be helpful as you bring different time periods and structures to life on a wide variety of projects. If you aspire to the Key Scenic Artist role, you will need to possess the aforementioned skills, adding to them experience in the industry and leadership qualities such as being an effective communicator, being organized, and working well on a team.

An art school background or education in theatrical design or fine arts will help aspiring Scenic Artists learn required skills. To gain experience, try getting a job in an art department, whether for a studio or a theatre production, as this is a great way to learn the various roles and techniques used. Another way to get training and on the job experience is to become an apprentice, through programs like the one offered by Local USA 829. For more information on how to become a Scenic Artist, see Media Match and Backstage. Finally, read this advice from Scenic Artist James Rowse on different routes into the scenic art industry.

Learn about film and TV industry jobs, training, and more in the Broadway Stages’ Industry Resource Guide. Our guide provides information about industry-focused job posting sites; links to general recruiting sites; education and training programs; and state, city, and borough industry information.

Industry Jobs | Set Construction Manager

As one of the premier studio production companies in New York, Broadway Stages works to meet the growing needs of the film and TV industry while also focusing on the needs of our community. We provide the industry with a soundstage or location where they shoot their scenes, but they also need a skilled and experienced workforce. In this series, we look at the various jobs that make a production come to life. We hope it provides insight and encourages you to consider a career in the film and TV industry. This week, we look at the role of a set Construction Manager.

What does a set Construction Manager do?

In our last blog, we looked at how the Production Designer shapes what is seen in a film or TV production, including aspects such as historical details, color palette, location, and more. Another key Art Department role that helps bring that vision to life is the set Construction Manager. Sometimes known as the Construction Coordinator, the Construction Manager leads the crew that creates the physical set on which other crews, such as artists, decorators, and props, add their touches to make a believable backdrop for a production.

Job description

At the direction of the Production Designer, the Construction Manager leads the building of sets, which includes hiring and leading the various construction teams, such as carpenters, painters, riggers, and plasterers. Not only do they manage budgets and schedules, but the Construction Manager is responsible for ensuring safety protocols are being followed on these unique construction projects that involve machinery and tools and need to physically support numerous on-set crew and cast members for the duration of the production.

The sets can be built on sound stages or on location. A key aspect of this construction is that it is often temporary, as it will be taken down at the end of the project, known as “striking.” So, the crew builds with this in mind, using easy to manage, lightweight materials, such as plywood that can be decorated with paint or plaster to appear to be the genuine article. However, sometimes the construction is meant to be permanent. In this MPA piece, Construction Coordinator Jonas Kirk (“Transformers 4: Age of Extinction”) describes how a production can sometimes improve a structure or property. He also illustrates the comprehensive scope of set construction, such as coordinating a large team and filming across multiple geographical regions, plus other unique complexities of a production.

How do I become a Set Construction Manager?

As the lead role managing set construction, it is important for a Construction Manager to have a background working in construction in the film and TV industry. This will impart needed skills and knowledge and will also help one develop a network within the industry. Construction experience outside the industry is also helpful. Some employers might require formal education, so study in the areas of architecture, engineering, or construction management is valuable, as are film school courses related to set construction and design. Further, a knowledge of safety best practices and requirements is necessary. Finally, skills such as project and time management, leadership, and excellent communication will help the Set Construction Manager as they interact with their crew and other set departments. Read more about set Construction Manager job responsibilities and needed experience and skills on Backstage and Media Match.

Learn about film and TV industry jobs, training, and more in the Broadway Stages’ Industry Resource Guide. Our guide provides information about industry-focused job posting sites; links to general recruiting sites; education and training programs; and state, city, and borough industry information.

United Scenic Artists Local 829 - Welcome the Apprentice Class of 2024

The United Scenic Artists Local 829 recently accepted 18 applicants for their three-year apprenticeship program. Sponsored by Local USA 829 as a Trust Fund, the program is for individuals with a working knowledge of art, theatre, film and related industries, but with less than three years of experience.  Before being accepted into the program, each applicant must take a three-part test and meet minimum passing scores for each part of the testing process in order to move on to the next phase of testing.

Once accepted into the program, the apprentices will be assigned to a variety of different jobs within the jurisdiction of USA Local 829 over the three-year program. They must complete approximately four thousand hours of training in a variety of specific skills. Included in these hours are seminars, homework assignments and projects, and class work - all reviewed and critiqued by the instructors and committee members. The class work instruction is held at a facility we donated and remodeled specifically for the apprentice program, located at our Arthur Kill campus on Staten Island.

Broadway Stages is honored to play a role in the artistic development of the scenic artists who are part of the program and privileged to support USA Local 829. Congratulations to the 18 program participants; we hope to see you working at our studios in NYC one day soon!

For more information about the scenic artists apprenticeship program click here.

Industry Jobs | Production Designer

As one of the premier studio production companies in New York, Broadway Stages works to meet the growing needs of the film and TV industry while also focusing on the needs of our community. We provide the industry with a soundstage or location where they shoot their scenes, but they also need a skilled and experienced workforce. In this series, we look at the various jobs that make a production come to life. We hope it provides insight and encourages you to consider a career in the film and TV industry. This week, we answer the question: “What’s a Production Designer?”

What’s a Production Designer?

We previously discussed how the Cinematographer uses elements such as camera equipment, lighting and framing to make a production come across effectively on screen. This week, we look at the role that determines the actual visuals that the Cinematographer captures. It is a key role that helps bring the Director’s ideas to life; a role that determines how the world within the production will be seen. This is the Production Designer, leading the effort to shape the setting in which the actors will play out the story. The time period, historical details, color palette, and location are examples of the production elements that the Production Designer needs to consider and plan before various set crews, from construction, props and costumes, to wardrobe, hair and makeup, and others, can begin to fully implement their work.

Job description

Due to their foundational role of determining what the production will look like, the Production Designer must be involved at the earliest stages of production. This, of course, means reading the script and working closely with the Director, Cinematographer, and other department leads so they can plan out various aspects of the production. During pre-production, they work together to discuss topics such as the setting, considering whether to film on location, build a set, or use CGI. They must also consider the color palette of the film, as well as other details that will bring across the right tone and theme. The Production Designer will likely need to do research to make sure they get the details right, for example, looking into the art and history of the time period that will be depicted. Based on this pre-work, the Production Designer can sketch out visuals that the Art Director can then bring to life. This early stage also includes working with the Producer to determine the budget that will be needed. The Production Designer hires the right crew for the production, including the Art Director, set designers, and others.

During production, the Production Designer essentially wears two hats, being present on set to simultaneously monitor that day’s activities, while making sure the next day’s set is being readied. This entails being able to troubleshoot any problems that might arise. Read more about the role of a Production Designer from the New York Film Academy and on MasterClass.

How do I become a Production Designer?

As you have read, this role requires a broad set of skills, including not only creativity, but knowledge of various topics such as design and history. As the leader of the Art Department, it also requires strong leadership and planning skills. A degree is not required, however, having an education in filmmaking or other area such as art, history, architecture, and design is helpful. As with other jobs in the industry, on the job experience across many departments is helpful to not only learn about various roles, but also develop a network within the industry. Read more about the skills and training needed to become a Production Designer at Master Class, Production Beast, and Careers in Film.

Learn about film and TV industry jobs, training, and more in the Broadway Stages’ Industry Resource Guide. Our guide provides information about industry-focused job posting sites; links to general recruiting sites; education and training programs; and state, city, and borough industry information.

Industry Job Focus | What’s a Cinematographer?

As one of the premier studio production companies in New York, Broadway Stages works to meet the growing needs of the film and TV industry while also focusing on the needs of our community. We provide the industry with a soundstage or location where they shoot their scenes, but they also need a skilled and experienced workforce. In this series, we look at the various jobs that make a production come to life. We hope it provides insight and encourages you to consider a career in the film and TV industry. This week, we answer the question: “What’s a Cinematographer?”

What is a Cinematographer?

In our previous blogs, we looked at the roles that the Gaffer, Key Grip, and Sound Designer play in managing the extensive lighting, equipment, and sound needs for a production. In this post, we look at the lead role responsible for bringing the lighting and camera elements together to visually tell a story in a TV or movie production -- the Cinematographer.

According to Studio Binder, the term cinematography is taken from the Greek for “writing with movement,” it is the creation of images you see on screen. A series of shots that form a cohesive narrative.

Also known as the Director of Photography or DP, the Cinematographer is responsible for key elements that determine how the production will come across on the screen, from choosing just the right camera and lens to use, and determining camera movement, to driving framing and lighting decisions for the scene. Let’s take a closer look at what this key role encompasses.

A Sight to Behold

The Cinematographer works closely with the Director to make their vision of the production comes to life on film. The Nashville Film Institute points out the importance of the Cinematographer’s involvement at the various stages of production, from pre-production, making sure they understand the Director’s vision and securing the right crew and equipment; to production, working closely with the lighting and camera crews, using various methods including framing, lighting, and more to get the right effects; and finally, post-production, making sure the integrity of the cinematography is retained. Read more about the duties of a Cinematographer at Master Class.

The skill of the Cinematographer can make or break a production, as the various techniques employed help to more richly highlight the subtleties of a story. Check out Studio Binder for examples such as camera placement – using a close-up shot of a person chewing while eating to visually illustrate that they are ill-mannered.

How Do I Become a Cinematographer?

As is the case with many roles in the industry, on-the-job experience through working various jobs can put you on the path to becoming a Cinematographer. This will also help you develop a network within the industry, which can be helpful as you develop your career and build your reputation. A film school degree is not required, however it can be helpful in learning the various elements of filmmaking, such as film and video production and directing. As with on-the-job experience, film school can also help you create a network of professionals that you can keep in touch with throughout your career. Whether you attend school or get on-the-job experience, be sure to learn technical skills such as light manipulation and knowledge of equipment. Read more about how to become a Cinematographer at Master Class. Read advice from professional Cinematographers at Careers in Film.

Learn about film and TV industry jobs, training, and more in the Broadway Stages’ Industry Resource Guide. Our guide provides information about industry-focused job posting sites; links to general recruiting sites; education and training programs; and state, city, and borough industry information.