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.