How to Become a Movie Prop Manager

Movies get their realism and excitement from props. Making something fake look like something completely real is the secret to many films that the stars don't want you to know. The prop manager helps curate props and manages their use during the filming. If the director needs a fake hand or an alien space ship, you are the person they turn to.

Instructions

1. Take an interest in theater and film classes at school. Many colleges, universities and high schools offer classes on creating props for stage shows and movies. It is important for a prop manager to have a wide knowledge of all things related to props. This is a good place to start.

2. Talk to the teachers at school and ask for help finding an apprenticeship. This is a great way for a young student to learn more and see how the prop manager works in a real movie setting.

3. Find the union that represents prop managers and consult them for advice. They may know about lower level jobs that allow you to work your way up or other places to gain more knowledge. With any skilled position like this, it's best to talk to the people who are practicing the craft to learn more.

4. Seek out student and independent film makers. These artists usually have a low budget and cannot afford to pay people, but will make up for it by giving you a lot of prop management responsibility. Often these film makers are so eager to make a movie that they will let someone with little to no experience help out.

5. Search for workshops about prop making and management. These are not only a great way to learn more about the trade, but to network and meet like minded people and teachers who can help you find a path to a prop manager job.