Summary
Mei Zhang is an accomplished Prop Designer with 6 years of experience in film and television production, specializing in creating immersive and historically accurate environments. Proven ability to manage complex prop inventories, lead fabrication teams, and ensure seamless integration of props with set design and narrative requirements. Adept at balancing artistic vision with logistical precision and budget constraints to deliver high-quality results for diverse projects.
Experience
Prop DesignerHorizon Studios
- Managed prop design, sourcing, and fabrication for 2 major studio features and 3 television series seasons, overseeing budgets up to $250,000 per project.
- Led a team of 4 prop fabricators and assistants, improving production efficiency by 15% through optimized workflow and material management.
- Successfully sourced or custom-fabricated over 1,500 unique period-specific props for a historical drama, achieving 98% historical accuracy and delivering 10 days ahead of schedule.
- Implemented a digital prop inventory system that reduced prop loss by 20% and expedited set dressing by 25% across multiple productions.
Assistant Prop MasterSilverlight Pictures
- Assisted Prop Master in managing prop department for 4 feature films and 2 limited series, handling logistics for over 800 props per production.
- Coordinated with vendors and rental houses, negotiating contracts that resulted in an average of 10% cost savings on prop acquisition and rentals.
- Oversaw the safe handling, transport, and maintenance of all props, minimizing damage incidents by 30% through strict protocol adherence.
- Contributed to set dressing and strike operations, ensuring timely completion for 100% of assigned scenes.
Portfolio & Projects
The Crimson Key (Feature Film)
- Designed and oversaw fabrication of 40+ unique mechanical props for a steampunk-themed adventure film, meeting complex functional requirements.
- Managed a $75,000 prop fabrication budget, delivering all custom pieces on time and 5% under budget.
- Collaborated closely with VFX team to ensure seamless integration of practical props with digital enhancements.
Echoes of Eternity (TV Series, Season 2)
- Developed and executed prop design for a sci-fi drama, including alien artifacts and futuristic weaponry, for all 10 episodes.
- Sourced and adapted over 200 contemporary items into futuristic props, saving an estimated 20% on prop budget compared to full custom builds.
- Coordinated prop logistics for a multi-location shoot, ensuring all specialized props were present and functional for 60+ distinct set-ups.
Whispers in the Manor (Independent Film)
- Served as lead Prop Designer for a period gothic horror film, responsible for conceptualizing, sourcing, and maintaining all props.
- Researched and acquired over 150 historically accurate props from the late 19th century, enhancing the film's authenticity.
- Managed prop continuity across 20+ shooting days with limited resources, preventing any costly reshoots due to prop errors.
Education
American Film Institute (AFI) ConservatoryMaster of Fine Arts (MFA) in Production Design
- Graduated with Honors, maintaining a 3.85 GPA.
- Awarded the AFI Directors' Guild Scholarship for outstanding potential in production design.
- Designed and managed props for 5 student thesis films, including a period drama that won Best Production Design at the AFI Student Showcase.
Carnegie Mellon UniversityBachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Scenic Design
- Completed a comprehensive BFA program focusing on theatrical design principles and practical application.
- Contributed to 10+ mainstage productions in various design capacities, including Assistant Prop Master and Scenic Artist.
- Recipient of the School of Drama's Creative Achievement Award for innovative design solutions.
Skills
Design & Software
AutoCADSketchUpAdobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator)ZBrushRhino 3DVectorworks
Fabrication & Craftsmanship
WoodworkingMetalworking (Welding, Machining)3D Printing & PrototypingMold Making & CastingScenic PaintingTextile Work
Prop Management
Sourcing & ProcurementBudgeting & Cost ControlInventory ManagementLogistics & TransportPeriod ResearchSet Dressing
Production Skills
Technical DrawingModel MakingProject ManagementTeam LeadershipSafety ComplianceProblem-Solving