A set decorator’s work can be seen when people watch a television show, a movie, or a play. These individuals are in charge of setting up scenes, including the placement of numerous props. They could do so by reading the script or studying sketches created by an artist. Setting decoration may entail creating backdrops or arranging furniture, among other things.
A set decorator could be employed by a small theater company or a large production company. He could be the man behind the scenes of a number of plays, musicals, or films. In some cases, the set decoration must be created entirely from scratch, which requires the scene to be “built” on stage and then dismantled. Movie set decoration can be more overt, involving the addition of only a few items to a location where a specific scene is being shot.
Artists are used by many large theater productions to depict what a scene might need to look like. In this case, a set decorator will collaborate with this person to provide the appropriate level of decoration. The sketches can be simple and only show what items are needed and where they should go, or they can be detailed and show specific colors or patterns.
Set decorators are frequently in charge of acquiring the items they require for scene decorations. They may be asked to rent or purchase furniture, backdrops, or accessories to help the production achieve the desired look and feel. They may also make the items required for set decoration on occasion. They can either buy the materials themselves or hire a professional, such as a seamstress or carpenter, to help them. This aspect of the job necessitates good business skills, and price negotiation is frequently required to keep purchases within the set decoration budget.
Although a high school diploma is usually helpful, there are no formal educational requirements for becoming a set decorator. Because there are typically few full-time openings in this field, many people do this type of work on a part-time or volunteer basis. Volunteering to help with a local high school or community theater production is usually a good way to learn the basics of set decoration. Individuals could apply with a traveling theater group or a movie production company after becoming well-known for their work. Because this line of work is largely seasonal, those who are able to secure a full-time position may need to work a second job.