By: The Don

Stephanie Maksin is a visionary at heart. Her beginnings lie in photography to now working in set decoration for film and television. Stephanie is on her way to making a name for herself within the entertainment industry. Stephanie is the first person we hear from who works directly on set to help bring film, tv, and commercial sets to life. Stephanie shows us what life is like as a Set Decoration Production Assistant. Here’s her story!

Interview

What is your name?

My name is Stephanie Maksin.

How long have you been in the entertainment industry?

I got my start with photography in 2014. I began as an intern for The South Jersey Times/NJ.com and was hired on afterwards. I worked my first gig in 2017 on a commercial for Google; I was employed in retail at the time. From 2018 onward, I have been working full time on various television shows and films as a freelancer.

What do you currently do within the industry?

I am a freelance Set Decoration Production Assistant.

What drove you to enter the freelancing entertainment business? 

I have been interested in entertainment as a career my whole life. I knew I wanted to enter an industry that gave me a chance to be creative while, allowing me plenty of opportunities to grow and learn. As a freelancer, I get to experience so much variety and meet people from around the world.

So what does an Art Production Assistant do? 

An Art Production Assistant helps with anything the Art Department needs. These tasks can include trimming photos, picking up graphic prints, reconciling receipts, etc. Currently, I work as a Set Decoration Production Assistant (which is similar.) I help the Set Decorator with making sure certain items are made/bought and delivered to set in a timely fashion. I maintain our office space, assist with paperwork, and communicate changes to my team.

What was it like working on your first gig with Google?

Working my first gig with Google was pretty eye-opening. I got to see a professional set for the first time and observe the standards for corporate filmmaking. I was able to help out multiple departments and learn what each team brings to the table.

Do you also act and/or direct or just work in other fields in film? 

I mainly work in Art and Set Decoration. When I worked my first show as an Art Production Assistant, I knew I had found my passion and continued to strive for jobs in these departments.

How many films/ tv/ commercial sets have you worked? 

I have 31 credits in the industry, including a feature film and a limited-series.

What is your favorite part about working on a set? 

My favorite part of working on set is seeing the script I read come to life visually. I enjoy seeing how others interpret a character’s room/space and give it a story through artwork, color, and furniture pieces.

Did you ever go to school for film or entertainment?

Yes, I am a Rowan University graduate, class of 2015.

What adversities have you encountered on your journey so far? 

It can be difficult working longer hours and maintaining my personal life. However, since I love what I do, it doesn’t feel as strenuous. I stay active by going to the gym or doing yoga. I make time for friends and family on the weekends. FaceTime has been great for keeping in touch with family during the work week!

What’s it like being a woman in the film industry?

Being a woman in the film industry can be intimidating, but I have learned to overcome this by staying confident and proving my skillset.

What’s your favorite movie?

Good Will Hunting.

Have you worked on any projects in Philly? If so what projects?

 Yes, I have worked on projects in Philly. I worked on “21 Bridges,” “Dispatches From Elsewhere,” “Queer Eye,” an interview with Steven Singer, “Google Pixel 2: Fletcher Street Cowboys,” and a short film titled “Entropia.” I have worked on shoots for Lowe’s as well as Comcast.

Are you from Philly?

I am from South Jersey. I do live in Philly now.

What’s your favorite set that you have done so far?

My favorite set that I have completed would be “21 Bridges” since that was my first feature.

Do you go to Los Angeles much? 

Actually, I have never been to Los Angeles. Hoping to visit sometime soon.

Do you believe the #metoo movement made life in the industry easier or harder for you? 

I did not work in this industry prior to the #metoo movement so I don’t have anything to compare it with. I do passionately support the movement.

Do you have a favorite genre? Why?

Sitcoms and shows with a large cast interest me. I like character development and feeling a sense of connection with each character.

Who is your favorite actor(s) and/ actress(es)?

I don’t really have a favorite actor/actress. I do like watching rising stars.

Is there someone you look up to in the industry? 

Yes, I very much so look up to my current team. I look up to those I have worked with before, such as previous supervisors, and like to keep in touch.

What is your dream career within film if you haven’t reached there yet? 

I would like to continue work within Set Decoration on a variety of platforms, including music videos and photoshoots.

Where do you see yourself in 10 years? 

In 10 years, I see myself expanding my network and working all over the country.

What advice do you have for someone interested in joining the entertainment industry? 

My advice is to get to know as many people as you can and take any job you can get.