Industry Jobs | Location 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 location manager.

What is a Location Manager?

In our last Industry Jobs post, we looked at the role of the first assistant director (1st AD), which is integral to a film’s planning, scheduling, and management activities. This week, we look at a role that is key to a production’s planning and scheduling when the decision is made to film on-location versus in a studio – the location manager. This leadership role is involved in the pre-production stage to ensure the right locations are identified and secured, and during the production stage to ensure that various location-related needs are met. Let’s look at an overview of the location manager’s responsibilities.

What Does a Location Manager Do?

The location manager heads the location department, which has roles such as assistant location manager, location scout, and location assistant. In the pre-production stage, the location manager works with the production designer and director to address both creative and practical considerations. They determine location needs based on the script, considering the director’s creative requirements. They also consider logistical requirements to accommodate needed crew members and equipment. Typically, several visits are made to a location to evaluate it, first by the location scout and then by others. The location manager works with the production designer and director to come to a final location decision. MasterClass provides an overview of the location manager’s responsibilities at this stage, including some of the aspects to consider for a location, like infrastructure-related needs (e.g., electricity and plumbing); space needs (e.g., for trailers and parking); access to medical facilities; and noise concerns. The location manager will negotiate fees with property owners; get needed permits and insurance; make sure health and safety requirements are met; and communicate with the neighbors to let them know when filming will take place. Finally, the location manager will ensure the set is equipped to meet the crew’s needs, such as providing a power supply and services such as security and a cleaning crew.

“The good wife” on location at café grumpy, greenpoint, brooklyn.

MasterClass explains that during the production stage, the location manager will work with the assistant director to “map out the crew’s arrival times, distribute maps, and generally ensure that all crew members know where they are supposed to be at all times.” They will also trouble-shoot any problems; prepare the location that will be used the next day; interact with the public; and once filming is over, return the location to its original condition (see this Careers In Film interview in which Location Manager Alex Banderas explains the role the location manager plays in making sure the location is left in the same condition in which it was found.) See this Film Independent video for an overview of the location manager role.

How do I become a Location Manager?

There is no formal education required for this job, however a background in other fields can be helpful. In this Career Sighted video, Location Scout & Location Manager Dale Dreher says, “You can take almost any degree and transfer it into locations work. At least take one or two classes in architecture, photography, sales, negotiation, deal making. If you could learn a little bit about landscaping, that would be helpful.” As with other on-set leadership roles, on-the-job experience is the best way for one to work up to this role. Dreher recommends that a way to get into the locations department is to get work as a production assistant (PA) on set in any department, then network and make connections.

A location manager should have strong organization skills, with the ability to delegate to team members; and strong communication skills, with the ability to interact well with others. In addition, this Backstage article recommends that “a good eye for design and strong attention to detail are definitely useful, as is strong knowledge of unique geographical locations.”

Read more about the location manager role and the skills and experience needed at ScreenSkills 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.

Industry Jobs | First Assistant Director

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 1st AD.

What is a 1st AD?

In our last Industry Jobs post, we looked at the role of the line producer, a leadership role that is key to a film’s planning and budget. This week, we look at another leadership role, one that is integral to a film’s planning, scheduling, and management activities — the first assistant director, commonly known as the 1st AD. Whereas the line producer is concerned with planning, scheduling and logistics primarily from a budgetary perspective, the 1st AD plays a key role in not only the planning, scheduling, and logistics, but also is responsible for making sure everything works as planned on the set, leaving the director to take care of creative concerns.  According to MasterClass, “While the director handles all creative decisions, the monumental job of coordinating and wrangling the cast and crew falls to the first assistant director.” The 1st AD is the key communication link between the director and the cast and crew and is involved in the pre-production and production stages of a film. Let’s look at the 1st AD’s responsibilities.

What Does a 1st AD Do?

In the pre-production stage, the 1st AD creates storyboards and works with the line producer and others to break the down the script in great detail related to the shooting schedule, to include locations, times, talent needed, etc. In the production stage, they work with the second assistant director (2nd AD) to create the daily call sheet, the key organizational document to keep cast and crew on schedule. The call sheet contains important information, such as arrival times, contact information, scenes to be shot, locations, talent, and other important items included in the day’s schedule that the 1st AD will need to ensure is implemented. Read more about call sheets on Backstage. The 1st AD is also responsible for the crucial communication that signals that filming is to start, or “calling the roll.” Masterclass explains, “Calling the roll is when the 1st AD cues the various department heads (including camera operator, key grip, and sound mixer) to prepare for filming to start.” Other responsibilities during the production stage include serving as the line of communication between the director and the cast and crew, managing any on-set conflicts that arise, and, crucially, ensuring set safety.

How do I become a 1st AD?

The 1st AD role requires knowledge of the many departments and functions related to a film production, as well as strong planning, organization, coordination, multi-tasking, 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. As with other on-set leadership roles, on-the-job experience working in a variety of on-set roles can help the prospective 1st AD gain experience while working up to the role.

Read more about the 1st AD role and the skills and training needed at MasterClass, StudioBinder, and Backstage. 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 | 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.

Camp Brooklyn’s 10-Year Camper Program Graduates Head to College!

Camp Brooklyn Fund is thrilled to announce that their 10-year camper program graduates are heading to college. Oscar, Shakira, Rachel C. and Rachel L. are heading to SUNY Plattsburgh, Johns Hopkins, Yale and Vanderbilt respectively. Join us in congratulating these young individuals; as a member of the Camp Brooklyn Fund board, we could not be prouder!

And thanks to all who support Camp Brooklyn Fund. Your generosity allowed us to send 35 kids to sleep away camps this summer! Access to life-changing camp experiences helps equip these children from financially disadvantaged families, with critical growth and leadership skills and broadens their world. Now, more than ever our children need to experience nature, and the world around them.

Thank you for helping us meet our vision to positively transform children, families, and our community. Read more about Camp Brooklyn Fund and please consider making a donation.

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.

Camp Brooklyn Fundraiser on NY’s only Rooftop Urban Vineyard | Oct. 7

On Thursday, October 7 the Camp Brooklyn Fund will host a unique fundraiser on New York’s only rooftop urban vineyard – Rooftop Reds in Brooklyn. Enjoy a variety of wines, brick oven pizza from Il Porto, a discussion about the innovative rooftop vineyard concept by the founder and managing partner of Rooftop Reds, Devin Shomaker, and the magic of Zach Alexander. Rooftop Reds is located in the Brooklyn Navy Yard at 29 Sands Street – building 275. Tickets are available for purchase and all proceeds benefit Camp Brooklyn.

Camp Brooklyn provides access to life-changing camp experiences for Brooklyn children from low-income families. They help to equip children with critical growth and leadership skills and broaden their world. The vision of Camp Brooklyn is to positively transform children, families, and our community. Now, more than ever our children need to experience nature, and the world around them. Please join us in supporting Camp Brooklyn. Tickets are limited so get them now! You don’t want to miss this unique event.

The Greenpoint YMCA is Open for Business! | October 4

Broadway Stages is proud to do business in Greenpoint, an area with a diverse, vibrant business and residential community. So, it is no surprise that we are excited to hear that one of our neighbors on Meserole Avenue has re-opened, and ready to again provide our neighbors with a full array of fitness and educational resources to further enrich our lives. Led by Executive Director, Kendall Charter, the Greenpoint YMCA resumed membership services today (Monday, October 4) at their facility located at 99 Meserole Avenue (tel. 212-912 -2260). Their hours are Monday – Friday from 6:30 a.m. - 9:30 p.m.; and Saturday – Sunday from 8 a.m. - 3 p.m.

They Greenpoint Y features a pool and basketball court/gymnasium, and offers a variety of amenities, programs, and classes for all ages. From group fitness classes and strength training, to preschool, day camp, youth sports, swim lessons, and more, the Greenpoint Y is a valuable resource for our community. If you are not already a member, check out the individual and family memberships available.

The Greenpoint Y is one of 24 branches of the YMCA of Greater New York, which was founded in 1852. For more information, including mask and vaccination requirements, as well as a list of open and soon-to-open YMCA of Greater New York locations, see their website. And, follow them on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram to stay connected.

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.