Become adept at using Vector Works and AutoCAD

Drafts are so important because they give all the vital information to the crew constructing the set. Clear, concise and professional drafts are especially essential when dealing with highly technical details in a studio or set design.

I recommend: Invest in VectorWorks and AutoCAD. Either is helpful, but learning both is beneficial.

Do digital renderings for studio and set design

The ability to sketch and paint traditional renderings is a neccesity. Digital renderings are a vital tool in communicating your ideas and including all of the essential technical tools that a television studio set requires such as microphones and cameras.

I recommend: Use Adobe InDesign  or Illustrator CS3.  

Create an electronic portfolio of studio set designs

A professional portfolio is as important to a set or studio designer as a resume. Every designer should also have a hard copy portfolio, but an electronic portfolio provides the opportunity to distribute samples of your work easily and at a very little cost.

I recommend: Try the Digital Portfolios Made Easy system, which is ideal for those who are technologically-challenged, or Mahara which is available for download online.

Put your TV studio designs into a flipbook

This is simply another way to creatively market your talents. Put your designs into a small book that is relatively low-cost to produce in case you need to give one to a potential client. This book should be small, easy to flip through and coffee-table style.

I recommend: Use Mimeo to create a very professional, well put together book highlighting your design talents in a colorfully printed and bound format. A cheaper option is creating your book with InDesign and printing it at Kinkos.

Provide other related services in addition to studio and set design

Include light rigging and design or sound rigging. Both of these are highly specialized areas, and it could serve a television studio well to not have to find two or three professionals when one freelancer can do the job. Many universities offer training in both.

I recommend: Find the best audio equipment at ZZ Sounds. Get the best lighting equipment from Helix Camera and Video.

Have a strong online presence

In our fast-paced world, people often don't like to invest a lot of time in researching those they hire. Many base their opinions of success totally on your online presence. If you cannot afford to create and maintain a professional website, then at least put your name out there in as many places for as low cost as possible, and be sure to link each profile with the next.

I recommend: Set up accounts at places like Guru and Elance.