Recruiter's Glossary

Examples: Coverage • ADR (Automated Dialogue Replacement) • Dailies

Set Decorator

Term from Film Production industry explained for recruiters

A Set Decorator is a creative professional who furnishes and decorates film, television, or theater sets to make them look realistic and match the story's requirements. They work closely with Production Designers to transform empty spaces into believable environments, whether it's a cozy home, a historical palace, or a futuristic spaceship. Think of them as interior designers for movies and TV shows, who select, arrange, and manage all the furniture, decorations, and props that make a set look authentic. Similar roles include Production Designer and Art Director, but Set Decorators specifically focus on the objects and details that fill the space.

Examples in Resumes

Managed a $50,000 budget as Set Decorator for an award-winning period drama

Led Set Decoration team for 12 episodes of a Netflix series

Collaborated with Production Designer as Set Decorator to create authentic 1950s interiors

Typical job title: "Set Decorators"

Also try searching for:

Film Set Decorator Television Set Decorator Set Dressing Supervisor Set Dresser Interior Set Designer Production Decorator

Where to Find Set Decorators

Professional Organizations

Job Boards

Networking Platforms

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How do you manage a large set decoration budget and team?

Expected Answer: Should discuss experience with budget allocation, vendor relationships, team supervision, and problem-solving when unexpected issues arise. Should mention tracking expenses and maintaining inventory systems.

Q: Tell me about a challenging period piece you worked on and how you ensured historical accuracy.

Expected Answer: Should explain research methods, sourcing authentic or period-appropriate items, working with historians or consultants, and managing reproductions when original pieces aren't available.

Mid Level Questions

Q: How do you collaborate with the Production Designer and Art Director?

Expected Answer: Should explain the approval process for decorative choices, how to maintain the creative vision while solving practical problems, and effective communication methods with the art department.

Q: What's your process for breaking down a script for set decoration needs?

Expected Answer: Should describe how they identify required items from the script, create item lists, plan procurement, and consider character backgrounds when choosing decorative elements.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What are the basic tools and resources you use to source set decoration items?

Expected Answer: Should mention prop houses, rental companies, antique shops, online marketplaces, and basic budgeting tools. Should understand how to maintain records of items.

Q: How do you ensure set continuity between scenes?

Expected Answer: Should explain basic photo documentation, maintaining set dressing notes, and understanding the importance of consistency in filming.