Today we’d like to introduce you to Maggie O’Brien.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Maggie. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
I first became interested in working in film during high school. I used to love watching the special features and behind the scenes that were included on DVDs. When I realized that people could actually get jobs making movies, I knew what I wanted to do. I remember one night at the dinner table my dad talking about how a coworker’s daughter wanted to be a director and was going to film school in Michigan. Suddenly, I saw a plan for my future. I moved to the city and attended DePaul University’s digital cinema program. With some outside research, I decided I wanted to be a Production Designer. The opportunity to create the world of the film was something I really looked forward to. I loved the idea of designing and building sets for the characters to interact with. I gradually took on larger projects throughout my years at school, gaining knowledge and confidence along the way. By the time, I graduated I had several short films, music videos and feature length movies under my belt. I was lucky enough to be hired on several commercials straight out of college and have since been working as a freelance Art Director and Set Decorator. Commercials keep me busy and allow me to continue to learn, and I am still fortunate enough to work on short films and narrative work from time to time as well.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc. – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
Truth be told, I have had a pretty smooth road to get to where I am. I was privileged enough to have gone to a private university that had a solid film program. While I sometimes had to teach myself, or argue to get the support I needed from the school and faculty, I gained valuable experiences and friendships. I’ve been lucky enough to be recommended by friends and peers for jobs, and have established some good contacts in the city.
I think the biggest struggle I’ve faced so far is the amount of stress that each project can bring. Especially with such strict deadlines and often small budgets, it can be difficult to accomplish the vision I or the director sees for a particular film. It’s important to find a work/life balance. Especially with the long hours, this job requires, it’s very easy to spend personal time working or planning for a shoot. It’s important to be able to step away and take some time for myself.
We’d love to hear more about your business.
I am a freelance Art Director and Set Decorator. This means that production companies will hire me to design, build or dress a set to be used in a commercial or sketch. I’m proud of the diversity of skills that I can bring to the table, from scheduling to construction work and painting to interior design. I think this is also what sets me apart.
What were you like growing up?
I was a very athletic kid growing up. I loved sports, especially basketball. I’ve always loved nature and loved spending time outdoors. And, of course, I loved art, drawing, and painting were my hobbies. I was pretty outgoing and loved spending time with friends and my siblings.
Contact Info:
- Email: maggieobrien82@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/swaggymaggy88/?hl=en
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