Interested in a career as a set decorator, need to do work experience in coming months. Ideas?

Question

I've become really interested in becoming a set decorator in the tv industry and/or film industry. I don't know that much about the industry but am very eager to learn more, something about this career really intrigues me. Im still at school and this year i need to do work experience. I've done a bit of research but was interested to know if you guys had any ideas on where i should go. Thank you.

Answer 1

I've worked with many top set decorators, both in film and T.V, in hollywood as a set dresser and leadman. First and foremost, if you don't live in L.A., it's going to be tougher... Well, as the previous poster noted there ARE many productions lured to Canada through tax incentives, but Americans are not allowed to work there. We of course allow canadians work visas, but I digress. The best way is yes, working for free, as close as possible to where you want to be. In L.A, that's either interning on a film, or simply calling the SDSA( Don't have thier # in front of me, but they are on Cherokee St. in Hollywood, Between Selma and Hollywood Blvd, behind R.C. Vintage Prop rentals) with a list of names of Decs you admire. Stroke a few egos. Buy a decorator lunch and grille them for knowledge. People generally appreciate sharing (some) knowledge, and you'll likely make some new friends. Craigslist is a bust as far as legitimate jobs that will lead to pay, but you may get lucky under gigs. Mandy.com lists current low budge features, as does the ross reports (at newsstands) including fax #s. hope this helps

Answer 2

I worked with one of the best set decorators in Canada, he won many awards over the years and is now retired. We both started in "little theatre" non paying. We both did work for three or four theatre companies for 5 or 6 years before going pro. Him in set design me in sound. We got great deal of experience because we actually did more than just the jobs of our choice. In little theatre (amateur theatre) you help with everything from makeup to moving sets to painting sets and helping the lighting guy - you do what is necessary to get the production looking good and working well.
The fact that we did a little of everything gave us a grounding in the theatre and made us a valuable choice when we went forth to start careers. He went to work in TV and movies in both Canada and the US. Also won many awards in the US in both Canada for his TV and movie work. Oh, and both of us studied our arts in college.

Answer 3

do a little at college and that is a good start