Since I’m still an entertainment industry novice, I’m spending a lot of time researching the industry, and talking to folks who’ve been doing this a long time. One of the most helpful resources I’ve had so far is a friend I met through working with QMx. Geoffrey Mandel was the graphic designer for Serenity (he’s also worked more recently on Mad Men and Parks and Recreation), and he’s been gracious enough to put up with — and answer — a steady stream of questions over the past few years. The last time we talked, he had a few pieces of really helpful advice for me.
Art Directors Guild
First, he told me to check out the Art Directors Guild (Local 800 of IATSE). While the initiation fee is steep, you don’t actually have to join until you’re working. In the meantime, they have a magazine called Perspective, which is available online at artdirectors.org. Perspective has some really interesting and useful articles aimed at art and design professionals in the entertainment industry. While it covers a wide range of art topics (set design, model-making, etc.), it’s a great resource to start learning the ins and outs of the industry.
Production Reports
The other suggestion he had was to subscribe to one of several weekly production reports. These are lists of films and shows that are in pre-production, or will be within a few months. They list the name of the show, the studio, contact info and other pertinent details. Geoff suggests sending query letters or making phone calls to the art departments of new productions that sound interesting.
The reports aren’t cheap; Production Weekly (@prodweek on Twitter) is $59/month and Production Alert is $50/month, but the return is potentially huge.
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Image used under a Creative Commons license from @thetruthabout