PROJECT: Create set decoration for a 6-and-a-half-minute student film. Writer/producer Alex P. Creasia, who hired me for this role, went on to produce some episodes of the popular tv series Glee.

REQUIREMENTS: Budget of $25 and a single assistant. Create the set decoration for a fashion model runway, backstage area, and dressing room.

CHALLENGES: Use budget for necessary supplies such as tape and ribbon instead of spending on larger materials.

APPROACH: Source fabrics, chairs, lighting, a runway ramp, etc from the Film and Theater departments at the Academy of Art University and agree a loan of materials, even though I was not a student in either of these departments. Charm and a friendly demeanor confirmed the necessary materials from AAU. I brought my own volunteer assistant to help hang fabrics and lights.

RESULTS: Excellent set design means we can focus on the subject of the film instead of how inexpensive it was. Also, this film project landed me a coveted IMDB page.