Anyone out there know much about working as a digital set designer in films and/or television? I am investigating whether this is a viable career path for someone with my background. FYI: I have a BA in architecture from what some consider to be a pretty luddite program, and an MA in urban planning along with about 7 years of work experience in architecture and urban design. I am not well-versed in techie programs like Rhino and Maya.
The field sounds too good to be true, honestly. According to someone I know that works in the entertainment industry, it offers a flexible schedule, pays well, is less vulnerable to economic downturns than standard arch. Plus, you aren't liable to get sued left and right.
I'd like to hear a more well-rounded perspective, along with advice on how to prepare myself for seeking my first position in digital set design.
I worked for a visual effects house during college. They did 3d scenes for TV commercials, lots of 2d 3d animated intros for video games and movies. What you’re suggesting is something more like a Pixar probably?
What you probably want to do is stay away from being the person who does the actual production, modeling, animating, etc... (unless this is what your interested in) these jobs are long hours and the pay is decent but the environment is intense. The people were loose and interesting, even the clients.
If I were to get back into it now I would want to be the producer or director for the client. This job is less techy, more creative and the freelance opps pay better, the majority of them were freelance.
The work I did wasn’t stimulating enough, didn’t have any depth. I was also in school at the time and design studio was process intensive (unlike professional practice) and you never knew where the process was leading you to. But then I graduated and realized how deceiving architecture school was. I spent most of my drafting..... and so and so on......
I would do it if it’s something you’re interested in. Most of the producer/directors went to art and film school and had greater hopes of being a feature film director. This sounds way to familiar...
May 1, 10 9:23 am ·
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Career Alternative - Digital Set Design
Anyone out there know much about working as a digital set designer in films and/or television? I am investigating whether this is a viable career path for someone with my background. FYI: I have a BA in architecture from what some consider to be a pretty luddite program, and an MA in urban planning along with about 7 years of work experience in architecture and urban design. I am not well-versed in techie programs like Rhino and Maya.
The field sounds too good to be true, honestly. According to someone I know that works in the entertainment industry, it offers a flexible schedule, pays well, is less vulnerable to economic downturns than standard arch. Plus, you aren't liable to get sued left and right.
I'd like to hear a more well-rounded perspective, along with advice on how to prepare myself for seeking my first position in digital set design.
I know absolutely nothing about Digital Set Design, but here is what looks like a helpful resource.
http://www.designboom.com/contemporary/schaedler.html
Dr. Architecture
Some amazing stuff here from the some of the best in the industry:
http://www.thegnomonworkshop.com/store/category/23/Digital-Sets
http://www.thegnomonworkshop.com/store/category/29/Matte-Painting
A great artist, Eric Hason: http://www.thegnomonworkshop.com/store/category/53/Eric-Hanson
(try looking at his portfolio)
And Ryan Church:
http://www.thegnomonworkshop.com/store/product/265/The-Techniques-of-Ryan-Church-1
Amazing work.
You best start practicing the software, though.
I worked for a visual effects house during college. They did 3d scenes for TV commercials, lots of 2d 3d animated intros for video games and movies. What you’re suggesting is something more like a Pixar probably?
What you probably want to do is stay away from being the person who does the actual production, modeling, animating, etc... (unless this is what your interested in) these jobs are long hours and the pay is decent but the environment is intense. The people were loose and interesting, even the clients.
If I were to get back into it now I would want to be the producer or director for the client. This job is less techy, more creative and the freelance opps pay better, the majority of them were freelance.
The work I did wasn’t stimulating enough, didn’t have any depth. I was also in school at the time and design studio was process intensive (unlike professional practice) and you never knew where the process was leading you to. But then I graduated and realized how deceiving architecture school was. I spent most of my drafting..... and so and so on......
I would do it if it’s something you’re interested in. Most of the producer/directors went to art and film school and had greater hopes of being a feature film director. This sounds way to familiar...
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