MODULE 2

Is Production Designer The Role For You?

Production Designer
• This role is ultimately responsible for managing the backdrop of
the production’s story, as well as ensuring that the audience has
a grasp of when and where things are taking place. If you are
interested in taking on the work involved in creating the visual
aspect of a production, it may be a good fit.
The Title And Job Description Of Production Designer
How They Do What They Do

A production designer works with most other parties involved in

the production, including those who handle hair, makeup, and
costumes for the performers, the cinematographer, and the
director. The finished product should reflect the vision of the
production designer.
What Is The Difference Between A Production Designer Vs.
Art Director?
A production may have both an 
art director and a production designer,
but many people don’t understand the
difference. Art directors have more
specialized skills, often working under
production designers on the set. A
production designer focuses on the
overall visual representation of the story
and works closely with the director,
while an art director will work more
closely with the crew and support staff
to ensure that tasks are carried out to
turn the production designer’s vision
into reality.
How To Become A Production Designer

• Becoming a production designer often involves gaining experience in

the industry. Some production designers choose to attend college, while
others work their way up through the various roles on a film set to gain
experience.
• What Kind Of Production Design Education Do I Need?
• A bachelor’s degree is beneficial in the production design field, although
it isn’t always necessary. However, going through an educational
program can help you build some of the skills needed, including those
related to graphic design and the most commonly utilized design
programs. Like other creative fields, production design is an area that
requires proven skills, hard work, and strong connections.
 Who runs the design team
On a set, the design team typically includes a
number of people, all responsible for different roles.
Today’s production designers are acknowledged as
the design department heads, overseeing the 
prop masters, set decorators, art directors, and
others on the team.

Why Is Production Design So Important?

The design of a production ultimately brings the story
to life and encourages the audience to engage and
interact with it. The details that make up the
background of the story also contribute heavily to its
overall emotional tone.
 Production Design Team:

• Production Design Team:

• Art Director (AD): works directly with the PD and oversees
the draftsmen, storyboards, artists, and set decorators.
• Production Illustrator or Concept Artist: creates the initial
sketches and designs alongside the PD and AD.
• VFX Coordinator or Supervisor: works with the PD to
ensure CGI elements match the look of the practical set.
• Set Decorator: develops the look of the set through
research and obtains items to fill the set.
• Set Dresser: arranges the items from the set decorator
and ensures continuity between scenes.
• Costume Designer: works with the AD to develop the look
of the characters, pays close attention to period and
place.
• Makeup Artist: oversees all makeup aspects of the
production, from simple adjustments to special effects
makeup.
How To Use Production Design To Make Your Film Stand
Out

• Using objects, costumes, and

backdrops, a production designer
can help the audience understand
how they should feel about a
situation in a story, as well as
believe it to be realistic.