What Does a Production Designer Do?
Find out what a production designer does, how to get this job, and what it takes to succeed as a production designer.
A production designer is responsible for creating the visual look of a movie, television show or commercial. They are in charge of everything from selecting sets and props to designing costumes and makeup. Their job is to ensure that all elements of a production fit together into a cohesive whole.
Production Designer Job Duties
A production designer typically has a wide range of responsibilities, which can include:
- Creating drawings and sketches of sets, props, and costumes to communicate ideas to other members of the production team
- Meeting with directors to discuss visual concepts and themes for the production
- Creating models of sets and scenery for client presentations or meetings with producers or other industry professionals
- Managing the physical construction of sets during production, often working with contractors or subcontractors who specialize in carpentry, painting, and other trades required to build sets
- Selecting, buying, storing, and maintaining all building materials used in construction, including lumber, plywood, fabric, paint, and electrical supplies
- Working with the director to create a visual style that fits with the film’s narrative perspective, mood, or genre
- Creating a detailed layout of the set design in 3D with computer software such as AutoCAD or Maya, including measurements for each item in the set
- Preparing a budget estimate for the cost of constructing the set design
- Maintaining contact with suppliers of props and furniture for rental purposes
Production Designer Salary & Outlook
The salary of a production designer can vary depending on their level of experience, the size of the project they’re working on, and the location of the project.
- Median Annual Salary: $62,500 ($30.05/hour)
- Top 10% Annual Salary: $95,000 ($45.67/hour)
The employment of production designers is expected to grow slower than average over the next decade.
The need to produce television shows and movies on a limited budget will continue to drive demand for production designers. However, the increasing use of digital technology in film and television production may limit the need for these workers.
Production Designer Job Requirements
A production designer typically needs to have the following qualifications:
Education: A design portfolio is often required when applying for a design position. A design portfolio should include a variety of design projects, including interior design, graphic design and landscape design.
To become a design professional, you typically need a bachelor’s degree in interior design, graphic design or landscape design. Some aspiring designers also pursue a master’s degree in interior design or landscape design.
Training & Experience: Most aspiring production designers will receive on-the-job training once they are hired. This training will help them learn the specific software and equipment used by the company. They will also learn the company’s workflow and procedures. Production designers who work in the film industry may receive additional training in the form of internships. These internships can help aspiring production designers learn more about the industry and prepare them for a career in film.
Certifications & Licenses: Production designers do not need any certifications to get started in their career. However, if you want to stand out from other candidates when applying for jobs, you can get a professional membership to show your dedication to the industry.
Production Designer Skills
Production designers need the following skills in order to be successful:
Drafting and sketching: Production designers often use drafting and sketching skills to create visual representations of their ideas. They may use these skills to create storyboards, set designs and other visual representations of their ideas. This can help them communicate their ideas to others and ensure that everyone involved in a project understands what the final product should look like.
Computer-aided design (CAD): Production designers use computer-aided design software to create models of sets and props. They use this software to create blueprints for the construction team and to ensure that the set or prop is built correctly.
Materials knowledge: Production designers need to know the different types of materials that can be used to create props, sets and other elements of a film. This can include knowing the different types of materials that can be used to create a specific object and how much each material type would cost. Production designers also need to know the different types of materials that can be used to create a set or prop that can be moved and those that can’t. This can help them determine the best materials to use for a specific project.
Mechanical engineering: Production designers often use mechanical engineering skills to create and design props and set pieces for films. They may use this skill to create models of props or set pieces to help the director visualize the final product. They may also use this skill to create the final product itself.
Artistic skills: Production designers use artistic skills to create a vision for a film or television show. They use artistic skills to create a storyboard, which is a visual representation of the film or show. They use artistic skills to create a set design, which is the physical representation of the film or show.
Production Designer Work Environment
Production designers work in a variety of settings, including studios, offices, and on location. They typically work long hours, including evenings and weekends, to meet deadlines. They may also travel to different locations to scout out locations for filming or to attend production meetings. Production designers must be able to work well under pressure and be able to handle last-minute changes. They must also be able to work well with a variety of people, including directors, producers, art directors, set decorators, and other production personnel.
Production Designer Trends
Here are three trends influencing how production designers work. Production designers will need to stay up-to-date on these developments to keep their skills relevant and maintain a competitive advantage in the workplace.
The Rise of Virtual Reality
The rise of virtual reality (VR) is having a major impact on the design industry, as it requires a different set of skills to create immersive experiences.
Production designers are in high demand as VR becomes more popular, as they are able to create environments that feel real and believable. In order to stay ahead of the curve, production designers will need to learn how to create VR content. This includes understanding the latest hardware and software tools, as well as developing an eye for detail that can make the difference between a good VR experience and a great one.
More Collaboration Between Designers and Engineers
As technology advances, so does the world of design. Production designers are now collaborating with engineers and other professionals in order to create products that are both functional and beautiful.
This trend is likely to continue as technology continues to evolve, which means that production designers will need to be familiar with new technologies and how to use them to their advantage. They will also need to be able to work effectively with other professionals in order to create products that meet the needs of their clients.
A Greater Focus on User Experience
User experience (UX) has become increasingly important in recent years, as businesses have come to realize that a positive user experience can have a significant impact on their bottom line.
Production designers are in a unique position to capitalize on this trend, as they are responsible for creating the visual elements of a product that users interact with every day. By focusing on UX, production designers can ensure that their designs are not only visually appealing but also easy to use and understand.
How to Become a Production Designer
A career as a designer is full of possibilities. You could work in fashion, graphic design, interior design, or product design. No matter which field you choose, it’s important to have a strong portfolio that showcases your best work. This will help you get noticed by potential employers and clients.
It’s also important to stay up-to-date on the latest trends in your industry. Read design blogs and magazines, watch videos online, and attend workshops and conferences. This will help you develop your own unique style and stand out from the crowd.
Advancement Prospects
A production designer is responsible for the overall look of a film, television show, stage production, or other live event. They work closely with the director to ensure that the vision for the project is realized in the final product.
A production designer typically starts out working in the art department of a production company. They may work their way up to become the head of the art department, or they may move into a position as a production designer. Some production designers also become directors or producers.
Production Designer Job Description Example
At [CompanyX], we produce high-quality, innovative products that improve the lives of our customers. We’re looking for a production designer to join our team and help us continue to create products that are not only functional but also beautiful. The ideal candidate will have experience in product design, a strong understanding of manufacturing processes, and the ability to create designs that can be mass-produced. He or she will also be able to work within the constraints of a budget and timeline and be able to communicate effectively with our engineering and manufacturing teams.
Duties & Responsibilities
- Serve as the liaison between the design team and production, ensuring that all products are produced to the highest standards of quality
- Oversee the development of products from concept to completion, working with a variety of teams including engineers, product managers, and marketing
- Design and oversee the production of packaging, point-of-purchase displays, and other collateral
- Develop detailed specifications for all products, communicating clearly with vendors to ensure that products are manufactured according to plan
- Manage multiple projects simultaneously, staying organized and on schedule while maintaining flexibility to accommodate changes
- Conduct research to stay up-to-date on industry trends and developments
- Generate creative solutions to challenges that arise during production
- Maintain accurate records of all products, materials, and costs
- Negotiate contracts with vendors and suppliers
- Monitor inventory levels and place orders as needed
- Inspect products upon arrival to ensure that they meet all quality standards
- Resolve any issues that arise during production in a timely and efficient manner
Required Skills and Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in graphic design, fine arts, or related field
- 3-5 years professional experience in production design or similar role
- Exceptional creativity and innovative design skills
- Proven experience with layout, typography, color, and other design principles
- Strong understanding of print production process and ability to troubleshoot technical issues
- Proficient in Adobe Creative Suite (InDesign, Photoshop, Illustrator) and Microsoft Office
- Excellent communication and presentation skills
Preferred Skills and Qualifications
- Experience with web design and digital production
- Working knowledge of HTML, CSS, and JavaScript
- Animation and video editing experience
- Familiarity with user experience (UX) and user interface (UI) design principles
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