In the world of film and television, the visual narrative is just as crucial as the script itself. At the heart of this visual storytelling ls the Production Designer (PD), a key creative figure who collaborates closely with directors and producers to bring their vision to life. The Production Designer is the architect of the visual universe in which the story unfolds.
The Production Designer’s primary responsibility is to create and communicate design ideas that align with the Director’s creative vision. They are tasked with ensuring the ‘look’ of a production is cohesive and compelling. This involves leading the art department team to research, conceptualise, and specify how design ideas can be achieved. The PD oversees the work of the art department, set decoration, construction, and props teams, ensuring every detail contributes to the overall aesthetic.
When it comes to creating compelling visual narratives, the role of a Production Designer is pivotal. One of the key elements they must master is the careful consideration of locations. Locations are the canvases on which stories are brought to life, and selecting the right one is a nuanced art that requires a blend of creativity, script interpretation, and practical know-how.
Location selection is fundamentally driven by the script. The narrative dictates the kind of environment needed to support the story. Whether it’s a bustling metropolis for a contemporary drama or a quaint village for a period piece, the location must resonate with the script’s demands. Duncan Howell an experienced Production Designer tells us; “Locations have to be carefully considered when a Production Designer is working on a film, television drama or television series. Choosing a location will always be script-driven.”
The creative vision for a film is a collaborative effort. The Production Designer works closely with the director to ensure that the chosen locations enhance storytelling versatility. “The creative vision is shared with the director to achieve maximum versatility for storytelling,” says Production Designer, Simon Bowles. This collaboration ensures that every location serves multiple narrative purposes, providing depth and richness to the visual story.
Set Build on location at Hever Castle
Sunday Times Magazine Office created out of an architect’s office, Birmingham.
Locations can be utilised in various ways:
The vision for location use is primarily discussed in the early stages of production. This involves detailed meetings between the Director, Production Designer, Producer, and Associate Producer. During these sessions, direction is given to the Location Manager to scout for viable options. “All of these require a vision that is primarily discussed in the early stages of production,” notes Production Designer Caroline Greville-Morris. This early planning is crucial for aligning the team’s vision and ensuring seamless execution.
To aid Location Managers in their search, Production Designers provide comprehensive visual briefs. These briefs often include sketches, mood boards, and reference images to convey the desired aesthetic and functional attributes of the location. “The Production Designer will supply the visual brief to aid the Location Manager and their team,” adds Caroline. These visual aids are essential for translating abstract concepts into tangible scouting criteria.
Beyond the creative aspects, practical considerations are vital. Production Designers advise on logistical details such as access to the location, potential restrictions, and the feasibility of modifications. “Production Designers will know how they can make a location work that sometimes others may not quite see and will also advise on practical aspects such as access to the location,” says Caroline. This expertise ensures that the chosen locations are not only visually fitting but also practically viable.
Dark Angel Victorian ‘period’ drama ITV (Location Before)
Rough visual showing intentions to hide modern and to create a fishing village
After construction & set dec
In conclusion, the role of the Production Designer is indispensable to the success of any film or TV production. Their expertise in creating and communicating design ideas, leading the art department, and working closely with the locations department ensures that the director’s vision is brought to life in a visually compelling manner. The production designer’s ability to balance creativity with practicality makes them a pivotal figure in the world of visual storytelling.
A successful production hinges on the harmonious collaboration between the art and locations departments. The Production Designer’s ability to envision how a location can be transformed and utilised is invaluable. A close relationship with the Location Manager ensures that the chosen sites align with the creative vision and practical necessities.
Read the following article by Production Designer and BFDG Member, Kevin Jenkins about the role of UK locations in the The Acolyte: https://www.lucasfilm.com/news/lucasfilm-on-location-the-acolyte/
As a result of this close collaboration between Production Designer’s and the locations department we are delighted to become Industry partners at Focus: Meet The Makers. The British Film Designer’s Guild will be contributing content ideas and our members will be attending throughout the two days: 10th – 11th December 2024
Business Design Centre, 52 Upper Street, London, UK
Please email [email protected] if you’d like to organise a meeting to discuss your location.