Production Designer Career Profile, Salary & Job Outlook
What does a Production Designer do?
Production designers are the leaders of the art department. They coordinate the visual appearance and artistic style throughout a film’s production. Designers collaborate with other visual departments, such as costume, lighting, visual and special effects, and graphic design to render the visual world in which the story takes place. In addition, they draw inspiration from the screenplay and conduct research for historical accuracy.
How much does a Production Designer make?
According to Glassdoor, Production Designers make a national average of $72,307 or $34.76 an hour (as of March 2022). In general, entry-level production designers make around $56,000 annually, with senior-level production designers making $94,000 a year. Of course, this wide range also depends on skill, seniority, company, and location.
What impact does this career have towards the film industry?
Production designers lead the art department to create the story’s world. They ensure that viewers understand when and where scenes are taking place. Designers add credibility and realism to films.
What is the job outlook for a Production Designer?
Film revenue is forecasted to grow to $392.34 billion by 2025. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), job opportunities in the field (including Production Designers) are expected to increase at a rate of 24% during the 2019-2029 decade.
How to kick-off your career:
- Pursue a job as a production assistant.
- Work on your sketching.
- Explore the NYU x Rolling Stone x IndieWire Film + TV Industry Essentials online course.
- Download Yellowbrick’s Ultimate Film Career Guide.
Learn from:
Judd Apatow, Film & TV Industry Essentials contributor,
Film director/producer/screenwriter/ comedian
Related Careers:
Film Director | Camera Operator | Location Manager | Camera Operator | Production Assistant Gaffer | Key Grip | Cinematographer | Props Master | Stunt Coordinator | Leading Actor/Actress | First Assistant Director | Second Assistant Director | Director of Photography | Line Producer | Assistant Props Master | Script Supervisor | Boom Operator
