Ella Guinness
Set Dec Runner
Auckland
Summary
I am a motivated and reliable Spatial Design graduate with hands-on experience in film set decoration. I have strong organisation skills, clear communication, and a calm, proactive approach in fast-paced environments. I bring a practical, solutions-focused mindset and genuine enthusiasm for contributing to collaborative creative teams, and I place strong importance on work ethic and consistently striving for excellence in everything I do.
Overview
4
4
years of professional experience
Work History
Creative Lead
Ambiance Interiors
Auckland, AUK
12.2021 - Current
- Designed and created a new website, using Square Space where I achieved a consistent look and visual theme so it is easy to use and successfully identified.
- Styled, edited and photographed products, for the website and Instagram platform. I also provided my own equipment i.e camera, lighting, and tripod, to carry out shoots.
- Edited images so they suit the theme of the website and aesthetic for customers to view.
- Styled the Ambiance store for functionality and aesthetic enjoyment.
Product Photographer
Karakter
Auckland, AUK
11.2022 - 05.2023
- Photographed products and styled images for the website and Instagram platform, as well as offered fresh ideas and concepts, in addition to classic styles.
- Edited images using Adobe Lightroom and Photoshop so they suit the theme and aesthetic of the website.
- Provided my own equipment i.e camera, tripod and lighting to carry out shoots.
Art Department Assistant
Toyota / The Sweetshop Films
Auckland
03.2024 - 03.2024
Retail Assistant
WORLD
Auckland, AUK
02.2022 - 12.2024
- Built strong client-based relationships both internationally and within New Zealand to understand customer needs and provide tailored product recommendations.
- Specialized in selling luxury products, including antiques and fragrances, with a focus on delivering a high-end shopping experience.
- Experienced in luxury retail environments, offering personalized service to meet customer expectations.
- Skilled in altering clothing to ensure a perfect fit, enhancing customer satisfaction and brand loyalty.
Art Director for Short Film "Lucky Luke"
Directed by Jesse Griffin - Isola Productions LT
Auckland
12.2024 - 12.2024
- Dressed sets quickly during tight turnaround times, ensuring minimal disruption to shooting schedules.
- Managed the art department team, providing guidance and support to ensure tasks were completed efficiently and effectively.
- Kept sets and props maintained for duration of production.
- Constructed, assembled and placed large set pieces.
- Contributed positively to overall production atmosphere by fostering collaborative relationships among crew members from different departments.
- Organized and attended meetings to discuss project status and brief new projects.
- Managed budgets for set dressing department, optimizing resources while maintaining high-quality standards.
Art Department Assistant / Designer's Assistant
SAP / Exit Films
Auckland, New Zealand
01.2025 - 01.2025
- Assisted in conceptualizing and developing the overall visual style in alignment with the designers' vision (one international designer and one local to NZ).
- Researched and sourced materials, props, and set elements to match the creative direction.
- Created mood boards and contributed to PPM documents prior to shooting.
- Used 3D modelling programs to draft and create the desired set designs and layouts.
- Ensured props were delivered on time and in good condition for shooting.
- Assisted in setting up and dressing the set before filming.
- Handled last-minute prop adjustments and replacements as needed.
- Assisted with wrap-up duties, including returning rentals, cleaning the studio, and clearing the sets.
Art Department Assistant
Campbell's / Flying Fish Films
Auckland, New Zealand
01.2025 - Current
Art Dept Intern / Greens Dept / Set Dec Runner
Paramount Pictures / DWTT Productions
Auckland Film Studios, Auckland
02.2025 - 06.2025
- Supported the Set Decoration team across prep, shoot, and wrap, sourcing alternatives and handling last-minute requests.
- Managed a high volume of daily runs across Auckland and Cambridge, maintaining efficiency through clear planning and prioritised task lists.
- Assisted with wrap administration and asset tracking using Airtable and Excel alongside the Set Dec coordinators.
- Maintained accurate financial records, handling petty cash, production cards, and systematic receipt and invoice filing.
- Transported and organised set dressing items with care, ensuring safe handling and efficient use of vehicle space.
- Communicated clearly and consistently with the Set Dec team and fellow runner to ensure smooth daily operations.
- Adapted quickly to shifting priorities and time-sensitive demands within a fast-paced production environment
Maintained clean, organised workspaces and vehicle to support efficiency and readiness. - Demonstrated strong time management and organisational skills, consistently completing tasks reliably and under pressure
Set Dec Runner
Shot Productions
Kumeu Film Studios, Auckland
06.2025 - Current
- Assisted the Set Decoration team throughout production, managing last-minute requests and sourcing solutions.
- Managed a high volume of daily runs across Auckland, maintaining efficiency through clear planning and prioritised task lists.
- Assisted with wrap administration and asset tracking using Airtable and Excel alongside the Set Dec coordinators.
- Maintained accurate financial records, handling petty cash, production cards, and systematic receipt and invoice filing.
- Transported and organised set dressing items with care, ensuring safe handling and efficient use of vehicle space.
- Communicated clearly and consistently with the Set Decoration team and fellow runner to ensure smooth daily operations.
- Adapted quickly to shifting priorities and time-sensitive demands within a fast-paced production environment.
- Maintained clean, organised workspaces and vehicle to support efficiency and readiness.
- Demonstrated strong time management and organisational skills, consistently completing tasks reliably and under pressure.
- Known for a positive, personable presence to all work areas, helping ease pressure during demanding periods of time.
Education
Bachelor of Design - Spatial Design
Auckland University of Technology
Auckland, NZ12-2024
High School Diploma -
St Cuthbert's College
Auckland, NZ12-2018
Skills
- Initiative: Being proactive in identifying and completing tasks without constant supervision
- Flexibility: Remaining calm and efficient under pressure while meeting strict deadlines
- Set Dressing and Prop Sourcing: Helping with sourcing, organizing, and placing set pieces and props
- Physical Stamina: Comfort with hands-on work, such as lifting and moving set pieces or assisting in construction
- Knowledge of On-Set Protocols: Understanding on-set procedures, safety guidelines, and how to support filming needs efficiently
- Teamwork: Ability to work closely with production designers, art directors, set decorators, and other departments
- Clear Communication: Effectively conveying ideas and updates to team members and external vendors
- Adaptability: Willingness to adjust to last-minute changes and handle on-set challenges
- Time Management: Ability to prioritize tasks and work efficiently in fast-paced environments
- Design Sensibility: Strong eye for colour, texture, composition, and style to match the project’s aesthetic
- Design Software: Proficiency in software like SketchUp or Adobe Creative Suite for creating and editing designs, plans and visual concepts
- Full NZ driver's license
Application
Art Department Internship
Accomplishments
- Completed bronze, silver and gold Duke of Edinburgh awards
- Completed 21 Day "Mind Body Soul" Outward Bound Course
Completed bronze, silver and gold Duke of Edinburgh awards
I completed the Bronze, Silver, and Gold Duke of Edinburgh Awards, which involved demonstrating commitment, resilience, and teamwork across various activities. The program enhanced my leadership, time management, and problem-solving skills, as well as my ability to work collaboratively and independently to achieve set goals. It also deepened my love for the outdoors, fostering an appreciation for nature and outdoor adventures, which continues to inspire me today. Through volunteering and challenging expeditions, I developed a strong sense of responsibility, adaptability, and perseverance—qualities that I bring to every role I take on.
Timeline
Set Dec Runner
Shot Productions
06.2025 - Current
Art Dept Intern / Greens Dept / Set Dec Runner
Paramount Pictures / DWTT Productions
02.2025 - 06.2025
Art Department Assistant / Designer's Assistant
SAP / Exit Films
01.2025 - 01.2025
Art Department Assistant
Campbell's / Flying Fish Films
01.2025 - Current
Art Director for Short Film "Lucky Luke"
Directed by Jesse Griffin - Isola Productions LT
12.2024 - 12.2024
Art Department Assistant
Toyota / The Sweetshop Films
03.2024 - 03.2024
Product Photographer
Karakter
11.2022 - 05.2023
Retail Assistant
WORLD
02.2022 - 12.2024
Creative Lead
Ambiance Interiors
12.2021 - Current
Bachelor of Design - Spatial Design
Auckland University of Technology
High School Diploma -
St Cuthbert's College