Become a Film and Video Art Director

As a film, television, or video art director, you could have a job with abundant variety. It will give you the chance to flex your creative muscle in many areas. In most cases, a college degree can help you find your way into this film and video career.

What does an Art Director do in Film, Video, and Television?

As an art director, you would confer with the film or TV episode director to develop an understanding of the visual effect and mood desired. You will likely have assistants research architectural, clothing, hair, transportation, and decor styles. Once you have a firm grip on how you want things to look, you will confer with set builders, makeup artists, costumers, illustrators, and even graphic artists.

What Education Do I Need To Become A Film and Video Art Director?

The best educational path to becoming an art director of film and video productions is to get a good grounding in art. An undergraduate art degree, followed by a degree or certification from film school, would be ideal. You should look for opportunities to gain experience in live theater. From there you could look for work with small television networks and then on to film. Once you've made a name for yourself, you'll be able to pick and choose the projects that interest you from film, theater, or television.

Source
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Motion Picture and Video Industries

About the Author
Craig Friesen is a freelance writer living in Abbotsford, British Columbia. He has a Bachelor of Arts degree in Religious Studies from University of Manitoba and a Master of Divinity degree from Associated Mennonite Biblical Seminary in Indiana.