Based in Edmond, Oklahoma, Will R. Dougherty is a key costumer, costume designer and production designer whose previous feature film credits include the first SAG approved production amidst COVID, “A Country Romance,” Lifetime films “Sisters for Life”, “College Professor Obsession” and soon-to-be-released “Help Wanted” and “My Terrorized Teen”.
How did you get started in the film industry?
I got started in the film industry by way of a dear friend who is also a designer. She contacted me in need of an assistant. I accepted not knowing what to expect and I am so grateful for that opportunity, which propelled my career in the wonderful industry.
Did you have any formal education or training related to the film industry before starting?
I did not have formal education related to the film industry but did have many years of experience in theatre.
Did you have any formal education or training related to your specific department on-set?
I did not have any formal education or training related to my specific department other than years of experience designing costumes for theatre productions in college.
What are some of your most recent successes (credits or accolades) related to your career in the industry?
After graduating with a Bachelors degree in Vocal Music Education in 2020, during the midst of COVID, I was left with the decision of whether I should follow the career path of my degree or take a leap of faith and pursue a career in the film industry. I can easily say choosing the film industry was the best decision. I am so grateful to have been given the opportunity to be part of 12 feature films and two short films in just over a year.
What has your career in the state’s film industry taught you?
My career in the Oklahoma film industry has taught me to see Oklahoma in a new light. Oklahoma has so much potential with vast location possibilities, great talent and exceptional crew.
What is the highlight of your career thus far?
The highlight of my career has been meeting so many new creatives both from Oklahoma and from various other places, as well as being able to explore the state’s unique filming locations.
What is your favorite aspect of working in Oklahoma’s film and television industry?
My favorite aspect of working in Oklahoma’s film and television industry is being able to grow my abilities in my craft by meeting the unique requirements and challenges of each film project.
What’s the best piece of advice you have for someone starting their career in Oklahoma’s film industry?
The best piece of advice I have for someone starting their career in Oklahoma’s film industry would be to take each opportunity with an open mind and an eagerness to help make the project a success.
How does someone in your field/department best promote/market themselves to those hiring in your industry?
Someone in my field can best promote themselves by networking or getting to know the fellow crew members on each project as well as presenting quality work.
What’s the one item you can’t live without on-set?
One item I cannot live without on set is Topstick tape.
Would your career be impacted without the state’s film incentive program? If so, how?
Oklahoma’s film incentive is imperative to the growth of Oklahoma film and not just a catalyst for my career but for many other talented Oklahoma film crew members. The state’s film incentive is a great attraction for filmmakers from across the nation.
Where do you see yourself – AND – Oklahoma’s film industry in the next five years?
Over the next five years, I hope to aid in the expansion of the Oklahoma film industry and continue to grow as a costume designer and production designer.
