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.

Industry Jobs | Sound 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 can 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 Sound Designer?”

What is a Sound Designer?

In previous posts, we looked at the roles the Gaffer and Grip play in managing the critical areas of lighting and infrastructure on film and TV production sets. In this installment, we look at another key part of a production — sound.

The nuances of sound combine with visual elements to set a production’s mood and can trigger myriad emotions in an audience. The professional that ensures everything blends together exactly right — from background noises, voices, music, and more — is the Sound Designer. According to Master Class, the Sound Designer works closely with the Director, and others, such as the music supervisor, audio and sound editors, sound effects and technical sound designers, and more. A Sound Designer can be involved during pre-production, however, StudioBinder points out that most of the work done by this role takes place post-production. Check out their blog post to read about examples of how sound was finessed on various productions with sound effects and more.

How do I become a Sound Designer?

According to Master Class, being a Sound Designer doesn’t require a specific formal education, however, a background in areas such as music, film, and audio engineering, to name a few, are key. Additionally, a knowledge of many musical genres, plus technical skills (sound recording programs and audio equipment), good communication, and last, but not least, creativity, will serve you well in this role. 

Careers in Film offers additional tips for becoming a Sound Designer, such as taking freelance jobs and doing internships, both of which can help build a network and a good reputation as you work your way along this career path. 

For more information about how sound can be effectively used in a production, read this piece from The New York Film Academy.

Industry Jobs | Key Grip

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 Key Grip?”

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In our first installment, we highlighted the role of the Gaffer, who heads the lighting department. A production’s lighting requires extensive set-up of equipment and rigging, and this falls under the purview of the grip department.

What is a Grip?

According to Mental Floss, the term was adapted from the American theater where it was used for a stagehand who helps shift scenery. But as usual, it’s all in the details and this crew, led by the Key Grip, has a lot of responsibility. 

Job Description.

The Key Grip is the chief supervisor of the grip crew responsible for setting up camera equipment and rigs, operating camera dollies and cranes, setting up lighting rigs and operating other non-electrical lighting equipment.

The Key Grip is involved in the earliest stages of production planning to ensure the lighting and cameras are ready to meet the unique needs of each production. The Key Grip works closely with the Gaffer and the Cinematographer or Director of Photography (DP) to ensure proper set-up for the lighting and camera equipment. The Key Grip also collaborates with the camera operators to determine the necessary grip equipment needed.

Getting a grip on things.

While the Key Grip, assisted by the Best Boy Grip, has numerous responsibilities, their first and foremost is safety on the set. According to Careers in Film, the Key Grip is second in charge of safety, after the 1st AD (first assistant director). This makes sense given the grip department is responsible for putting in place a lot of a set’s infrastructure. The grip crew’s expertise at safely and securely installing the equipment and rigging is crucial to make sure no one gets hurt. No Film School compares the grips to a construction crew, setting up many elements — from filters and tents to scaffolds, ladders, dollies, tracks, and cranes. This not only ensures proper lighting, but also provides stability and the right positioning for the camera. The next time you view a scene filmed with exceptional lighting, from a great height, or at a high speed, think of the grip department and the work they did to make that happen! Read more about what’s involved in the role of a Key Grip at MasterClass and Careers in Film.

How do I become a Key Grip?

With no specific degree required, the best way to become a Key Grip is with job experience. According to MasterClass, important skills to develop are technical knowledge, as the job involves working with various equipment and tools. Also, problem-solving skills are crucial in finding solutions to the unique needs of each production. And finally, communication skills are paramount for a Key Grip who needs to effectively lead a crew. 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.

Camp Brooklyn 21 Day Matching Challenge Fundraiser

Did you hear the great news? Summer camps have been given the green light to reopen, allowing kids of all ages to take a break from city life to enjoy the great outdoors. Summer camp is a fantastic way for children to get in touch with nature and disengage from technology. Unfortunately, roughly 33% of kids in the Brooklyn area are unable to participate in summer camp due to poverty. That’s where Camp Brooklyn comes in! Since 2002, Camp Brooklyn has helped over 3,500 children go to summer camp and experience everything it has to offer. Through financial and in-kind donations, and a crew of volunteers, Camp Brooklyn is able to provide access to life-changing camp experiences for Brooklyn children from low income families, equipping them with critical growth and leadership skills and broadening their world.

Please join us in supporting Camp Brooklyn by participating in the 21 day matching grant challenge. From now until May 9th, Broadway Stages will match donations up to $10,000 in an effort to give as many kids as possible the gift of the great outdoors. As a member of the board of Camp Brooklyn, we have seen first hand the difference summer camp can make in the life of a child. Click here to be part of an amazing vision – to positively transform children, families and our community.

Industry Jobs | Gaffer

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 can shoot their scenes, but they also need a skilled and experienced workforce. This is the first in a series that will 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 is a Gaffer?”

What is a Gaffer?

According to MasterClass, the origin of the title was “British slang for a tool called the ‘gaff,’ which was a hooked metal pole used in theatre to adjust the stage lights.” But there is more to it than a pole and stage lights. A whole lot more!

Job Description.

The Gaffer, or Chief Lighting Technician is the head of the lighting department on a TV or film production set. Responsible for running the grip/electric crew and overseeing all the lighting equipment, they also work in pre-production and production to help achieve the desired cinematic image by setting up lights and running cables.

Shedding Light on the Subject.

The Gaffer’s responsibilities are extensive. First and foremost is safety! Before any lighting instruments or electrical equipment are selected and placed, before any cables are run, generators set-up or crews hired, safety practices must be established. Backstage explains that the Gaffer is heavily involved during pre-production, working with the producers and production managers to determine electrical and crew budgets. They must also understand the script, meet with the director and work closely with the director of photography (DP) to design the lighting. In addition, they collaborate with the key grip to map out the aesthetics of the production and need to hire their best boy electric, the second in command to the Gaffer and foreman of the electrical team.

Read more about what’s involved in the role of a Gaffer at MasterClass. You can also find information about Gaffers on the Careers in Film website, where you can read advice from a number of professional Gaffers who have worked on successful productions.

How do I become a Gaffer?

While some Gaffers go to film school to learn the trade, hands-on experience is critical and many Gaffers begin as production assistants. The Nashville Film Institute provides an overview of the role and illustrates how experience and training can work together to prepare you to be a Gaffer. Learn more 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.

National Volunteer Month

Using our unique skills and talents to help others and promote meaningful causes is part of the fabric of our society and a core value at Broadway Stages. Through financial, in-kind and volunteer resources, we strive to make a difference in the communities where we operate. Join us this month as we observe National Volunteer Month, a time to recognize those who volunteer their time and energy to make the world a better place. It is also a time to encourage volunteerism — volunteers are needed across many areas of daily life to help those in our community who are vulnerable or at risk. From being a member of a volunteer fire department or providing food to those in need, tutoring, mentoring, cleaning up a park, helping at an animal shelter, taking someone to the doctor, making calls and scheduling appointments, or advocacy for equality — the list goes on and on. There are countless ways you can help, and it doesn’t have to be part of a broader initiative; simple acts of kindness also count.

During the pandemic Broadway Stages has supported many organizations dedicated to helping others. Most notably has been the focus on food insecurity. We encourage you to take a look at the exemplary efforts of the The Campaign Against Hunger and the North Brooklyn Angels and consider how you can help. Do you have a special talent or skill that may benefit a charity or organization? Let them know that you want to lend a hand. In the meantime, we offer a few ideas on how you can observe National Volunteer Month.

Show your appreciation. Know someone who volunteers? Reach out and thank them for their efforts and let them know they are appreciated.

Volunteer. Already a volunteer? Keep up the great work! Want to start volunteering? Consider getting involved with a local organization. Here is a list of some of the groups that Broadway Stages is proud to support:

• Camp Brooklyn Fund (camp experiences for low-income families)

• Greenbelt Conservancy and Animal Refuge (environmental sustainability)

• Newtown Creek Alliance (environmental sustainability/green roofs)

• North Brooklyn Angels (food insecurity)

• RiseBoro Community Partnership (multiple social services)

• Staten Island Children’s Museum (arts experiences for children)

• The Campaign Against Hunger (food insecurity)

• Ujima Community Working Together, Inc. (youth empowerment)

• Urban Upbound (multiple social services)

We also recommend Points of Light to search for opportunities around the country or visit NYC Service and New York Cares to find opportunities in New York City.

Unable to volunteer? Consider donating to your favorite charity. Now is a great time to show your support to organizations that are being called on more than ever due to the unprecedented impact of COVID-19 on our communities.

Thanks to all across our community for the many ways you give to others, whether with your time or through financial or in-kind contributions. And for all those volunteering in-person, remember to mask up and stay safe! You are appreciated and we thank you for your compassion.

Resource Guide Provides Information on Jobs/Training in TV and Film

The TV and film industry is working its way back, following strict protocols to ensure the health and safety of all involved in the production of amazing films, TV shows and documentaries that have helped to entertain us throughout the pandemic. With content for streaming at an all-time high, Broadway Stages continues to work to meet the growing needs of the TV and Film industry while also focusing on the needs of our community.

To keep-up with demand, the industry needs a skilled and experienced workforce. If you are interested in a career in the TV/Film industry we have just the thing to help your job search. Our Industry Resource 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. We provide the name of the organization, a link to their website, the type of resource offered, and a description of the organization — all in one location.

Whether you are seeking a job, want to build your skills or expand your career, we hope you find this resource helpful. As one of the premier TV and film industry production studios in New York we are committed to support the growth of the industry and our community.

REMINDER Camp Brooklyn Fund Fundraiser

Just a friendly reminder that the Camp Brooklyn Fund is going to camp and the entire family is invited! A virtual gathering behind the magic door will take place on Sunday, February 28 at noon. There will be games, dancing and fun with Mario the Magician. The event is hosted by CAMP, A Family Experience Company and funds raised will support Camp Brooklyn. Please join us for a fun filled afternoon that benefits an amazing organization. Tickets can be purchased here.