Working as a set consultant for ABC’s television show High Potential was a fascinating and challenging experience. My role was to ensure the scenes involving permaculture principles, greenhouse management, and sustainable design were both realistic and visually compelling. Here, I’ll share insights into my work on the show, the unique challenges I faced, and how this project aligned with my broader mission of promoting ecological design.
What Does a Set Consultant Do?
As a set consultant, I was responsible for verifying the accuracy of the scenes related to permaculture principles and methods. This included scenes set in a greenhouse and the character’s living space. My job involved analyzing the visuals to ensure they were consistent with permaculture practices and believable within the storyline.
Because I am a nationally recognized designer with prior connections to television, my name came up as a resource when the producers needed expertise in ecological design. After an initial discussion about their needs, I was brought on board to enhance the continuity and realism of the show’s setting.
Bringing Expertise to the Table
My expertise in greenhouse management and polyculture design for companion planting proved essential for the storyline. In one scene, the detective’s deep understanding of agricultural practices allows them to uncover evidence of tampering in a greenhouse. To support this plot point, I created a detailed planting scenario that aligned with the character’s meticulous planting style and ensured it visually communicated the narrative to the audience.
Collaborating with the art director and set designers, I reviewed layouts, storyboards, and the physical sets themselves. Together, we created an environment that authentically represented the lifestyle of a permaculture practitioner while also serving the needs of the storyline.
Behind-the-Scenes Challenges and Breakthroughs
One of the biggest challenges was understanding my role within the complex hierarchy of a production team. Knowing who could implement changes and how to communicate effectively was a learning curve. While I contributed many suggestions, only some were implemented due to the collaborative and fast-paced nature of television production.
A creative breakthrough came from my experience as a commercial photographer, which helped me understand how to set up compelling visuals. I worked to ensure the backgrounds and foregrounds of scenes were rich with texture and color, making them visually engaging from multiple camera angles. Additionally, I suggested practical solutions, like adding shade cloth to the greenhouse, which improved both the realism of the set and the lighting for filming.
Enhancing Storytelling and Visual Impact
My contributions allowed the production team to create versatile and detailed sets that supported the storytelling. For example, designing functional planting beds and adding subtle props provided options for dynamic scenes while maintaining realism. These elements not only enriched the visual landscape but also gave the directors flexibility during filming and editing.
Personal Highlights and Lessons Learned
One of my favorite parts of this project was sitting in the video village, watching the production unfold on monitors. Seeing how my input shaped the scenes was deeply rewarding. I also enjoyed meeting and collaborating with the talented art directors, set designers, and production staff who brought the show to life.
The experience taught me the importance of clear communication. In future projects, I plan to use written notes and a structured approach to track feedback and ensure clarity. I was also struck by the sheer scale of a television production—hundreds of people working in unison to create a single day’s shoot.
The Bigger Picture: Promoting Permaculture Through Media
Working on High Potential was more than just a consulting gig; it was an opportunity to introduce permaculture principles to a national audience. By ensuring the accuracy of the greenhouse scenes and even influencing the script with permaculture terminology, I aimed to increase awareness of sustainable living practices.
Looking Ahead
While this might be a one-off project, it has sparked my interest in contributing to storytelling through media. I’ve always enjoyed writing and have several unfinished scripts and stories of my own. This experience reaffirmed my belief in the power of mass media to influence perceptions and inspire change.
Final Thoughts
My work on High Potential was an exciting intersection of my passions for design, storytelling, and sustainability. Although viewers may never know about my role behind the scenes, I hope the authenticity and attention to detail in the show resonate with audiences. If you’re considering a career as a set consultant, my advice is to master your craft, communicate effectively, and embrace the collaborative spirit of production. It’s a fascinating and rewarding journey—one I’m grateful to have experienced.
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