Have you been approached by Production companies that are looking to "stage" their set but are on a limited budget so they cut their set designers? We have been getting calls to design/decorate sound stages for movie productions and have plans to work on a set in November. We would love to hear from others that have been down this road and what challenges, opportunities and learnings that you can share.
Thanks, Leigh
Hi Leigh, WELCOME to Active Rain, I just realized you and Michelle are newbies.. It's great to have you here, you will love it.. Sometimes, there are so many posts on SIF, Stage It Forward - posts can get missed easily and don't get comments.. I know that Dane Caldwell just did a set design, check her blog, the first post is about it but she had a couple other posts before, you can scroll down..
You can post any blog to 5 groups that apply - each have guidelines.. Please let me know if you need any help.. God bless,
Leigh: Having worked as a Production Designer for many years in film commercials and TV, I can tell you that if they are doing this project non-union (which I assume they are since they are using your comany and not a union member) then the working conditions will be less than desireable. Make sure your contract states that you will not work more than 12 hours without overtime pay (standard in the industry is 10 hours), that you are being paid at least minimum wage (thats regular time for the first 8 hours and time and a half for hours 8-12, and double pay after 12 hours for any 24 hour period). It can be a lot of fun, but I hate to see anyone get taken advantage of.
Cheryl ~ Thanks so much for the welcome ... finally got some time to "network" on AR and already finding it addicting! :)
Michelle ~ I appreciate the information. We are a little concerned about the timing constraints because for this particular shoot we are designing a living room, dining room and game room decked out for the holidays and they have rented a studio for filming for about a 6 hour period (setup to tear down). So we are under a lot of pressure to have everything ready to go by the time they yell "action". It sounds as though we won't have the overtime issue but we will add it into our contracts just in case. Thanks!
Hi leigh, I worked on a set design last month at the Toronto International Film Festival with Dane Caldwell of 2-hounds design. Dane received the call and asked me to help. I had a fabulous time, worked 24hours straight, met some truly talented people from lighting and production. I was blown away with the detail. I can't picture myself doing this on a regular basis (I need sleep), but very much appreciated the experience. The most exciting part for me was Jennifer Hudson, Alicia Keys and Queen latifah all sat on my pillows! I now use these pillows in my own home and think "not bad for a country girl".
Good luck with it and keep us posted. Kim
Leigh,
Congratulations! That sounds like a lot of fun. Please keep us updated with your progress!
Yes, wondering if the set designers know they are being cut from the budget.? Nice opportunity. Good luck and be sure to let us know how it goes.
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