A Day In The Life Of - Costume Assistant - ITV Studios UK
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Introduction
As a costume assistant, my role is pivotal in ensuring continuity on set regarding the artists’ costumes. Reporting directly to the costume supervisor, I work collaboratively with the entire costume team to maintain the visual storyline of a production.
Each day on set brings new challenges, and today is no exception. We're introducing a new character who hasn't undergone a fitting in the studio. Hence, I’ve brought her costumes to the location shoot.
The team consists of several key players:
- Costume Designer: This individual establishes the overall style of the show and the appearance of each character.
- Costume Supervisor: This role involves a detailed breakdown of the script, determining character wardrobe changes for specific scenes.
- Costume Assistant (My Role): This is where I come in. On set, I make any necessary tweeks and ensure every character is attired correctly, keeping the continuity intact.
Because our production has moved from the studio to an outdoor location, my day starts early. I usually arrive around 7 AM, half an hour before call time. My first task is to prepare the costumes. This involves checking continuity on my iPad and laying out the costumes for the actors, informing them about any changes they might need to be aware of.
While working in this industry can appear glamorous, it’s essential to understand that it comes with hard work and challenges. Having a passion for costume design, a willingness to learn, and basic sewing skills are important elements for success in this field. Despite the long hours and physical demands, for those who genuinely love their work, there’s nothing quite like the thrill of being in the world of costumes.
Keyword
- Costume Assistant
- Costume Supervisor
- Costume Designer
- Continuity
- Location Shoot
- Passion
- Sewing Skills
FAQ
What is the role of a costume assistant?
A costume assistant supports the costume supervisor and designer by ensuring continuity of costumes on set and making any necessary adjustments.
What time do you typically start your day?
I usually arrive around 7 AM, which is half an hour before the call time for the production.
Why is continuity important in costume design?
Continuity is vital to maintain the visual flow of the story, ensuring that costumes remain consistent throughout the scenes and match the script's requirements.
What skills are essential for a costume assistant?
Basic sewing skills and a strong passion for costuming are crucial, along with a willingness to handle the demands and challenges of the job.
Is working as a costume assistant glamorous?
While the role can appear glamorous, it often involves hard work and long hours. Passion for the craft is vital to thrive in this environment.