Set decorator

The set decorator is the head of the set decoration department in the film and television industry and is responsible for the creative vision of the interior design and set elements for each set in a feature film, television, or new media episode or commercial, in support of the story, characters, or brand of the script. The set decorator is responsible for the vision and curating the overall look and feeling of the set environments including the practical lighting, technology, art, furniture, drapery, floor coverings, books, collectables, to exterior furnishings such as satellite dishes, Old West water troughs, streetlamps, traffic lights, garden furniture and sculptures. Their creative direction creates the layers and signals the characters or brands identity often with great research and consideration to many of the elements. They are also responsible for overseeing the set decoration department operations including budgets, hiring, scheduling, leading, contracting, and managing teams.

While the set decorator provides a focused creative vision of the environment to tell the story and engage with the character and audience, the Propmaster provides elements that are handled by the actor. For example: a library is decorated with set dressing such as the furniture, books, desk lamp, blotter, framed photos, personal effects, letter trays, letter opener, papers, paper files. The Propmaster provides the props – the letter the actor is opening and reading, the pen they write with, and the ink into which they dip their pen. The set decorator often collaborates with other creative departments such as wardrobe, props, and gaffers to ensure the curation of the project.