extra was the easiest way to get on set and see what really goes on. I talked
with everyone on the crew and eventually landed more work as a produc-
tion assistant." Called upon to help paint, hang something on a wall, or
bring in a piece of furniture, he was introduced to the art department.
Erzen continued to network, landing better and better jobs. While
working at a postproduction facility, he was sent to deliver a package
to a downtown Los Angeles address. There he inquired at the production
office if they needed a production assistant for the following day. Instead,
he learned they needed someone for that evening. "I got four days'
work. Sixteen hour days, all night long, blocking off a section of down-
town LA for a Backstreet Boys
video shoot. That is how I get a
lot of my work--creating an
opportunity."
Erzen sees each job as an
opportunity to learn more
about the craft of filmmaking
and to make new contacts that
might lead to his next job. He
gained experience working
swing, in the art department, on commercials for Kraft, SlimFast,
Mastercard, and other products. He has also worked on videos for
Destiny's Child, Jessica Simpson, and Genuine; he helped build a set for
the opening ceremony of the 2002 Olympics, and on the film A Piece of
My Heart.
Job Overview
The on set dresser maintains the integrity of the set for the set dressing
and property departments. If a cup is moved or a piece of furniture is
rearranged, the on set dresser is responsible for putting them back in
their original places to maintain the continuity of the shot. Often, the on
set dresser will take Polaroids or digital pictures to aid in this process.
Special Skills
On set dressers must be physically able to lift and carry furniture and
heavy objects. "For my particular position, you need muscle," says set
dresser Diana Richardson. "To move up in the ranks, education in design
JOB TITLE: ON SET DRESSER
"Do your best,
no matter what the
job is. Don't give up.
Just keep pursuing
the area you want to
work in."--Brian Erzen
CAREER TIPS
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