Crew Spotlight: Michelle Howe
Michelle Howe | Production Designer
Behind every successful film is a crew that goes the extra mile.
Michelle Howe, Houston-based production designer, is at the heart of it all. With 14 years of film industry experience, Howe has constructed a resume studded with prominent films and television programming.
But Howe’s career path didn’t always point to film.
At 48 years old, Howe chanced into her new trajectory in production design. It’s here that she has carved out a place among the unsung—the hardworking lighting crew, carpenters, decorators, set dressers, and makeup artists who perfect the fine details of every scene.
Howe has worked on projects throughout the United States, but nothing can compare to the projects that keep her home. In Houston, there’s always someone she can call for a prop, a location, a unique piece of set dressing, or a referral. She belongs to a community of film professionals who share a resourcefulness, dedication, and passion for their craft.
In this Q&A, Howe spoke with us about getting her start in the industry, the challenging nature of production design, and the rewarding connections she’s made with fellow Houston crew members.
How did you get your start in film?
I had an unconventional start in the industry. I spent 20 years teaching fitness classes and raising four amazing children. At the age of 48, I volunteered to work in the art department on a film, and I was hooked!
I lacked connections in the art department, but a crew member offered to teach me how to work grip & electric. That opportunity led to me earning all my union hours through G&E. I eventually transitioned to the art department and haven’t looked back! I’ve had an amazing 14-year career, and I’m excited to continue to grow and develop my craft moving forward.
What brought you to Houston, or what's kept you here?
I started my career in Dallas working grip & electric, then moved to Houston to be closer to family. I alternated between G&E and the art department before making the transition to the art department full time.
What types of projects do you primarily work on?
I work on a wide range of projects, primarily independent films, home renovation and reality TV shows.
What are some notable projects you’ve worked on?
My credits include 11.22.63, Mo (seasons 1 & 2), Revolution, 40 Dates & 40 Nights,
Mattress Mack, Sacrifice, Ghost Loop, No Demo Reno, Selling The Big Easy, Texas Flip ‘n Move.
What project are you most proud of and why?
I’m most proud of my work on the upcoming Mattress Mack film. It was the most challenging project I’ve taken on thus far. The schedule was ambitious and, as is common for an independent film, the budget was tight! My team had just two days per set to build two furniture stores—one set in the 1980s and the other in the early 2000s. We succeeded because of the incredible Houston crew working alongside me, from the overnight lighting crew to the carpenters, decorators and set dressers - it was a true team effort!
What's one thing people may not realize about your work?
People may not realize how much research, planning and preparation goes into each project. The work starts long before the cameras roll and continues long after filming wraps. There is very little downtime!
What do you love most about living and working in Houston?
I’ve worked on shows all over the country—from Alaska to California to Florida, but Houston is home! Everywhere I go in Houston, I’m reminded of locations I’ve filmed in, businesses I’ve purchased from, restaurants I’ve eaten in, and people I’ve met along the way.
The best part of working in Houston is the crew! We are a scrappy, resourceful bunch—we make things happen, often without the resources available in other film cities. Whether I need a prop, a location, a unique piece of set dressing, or a referral, there is always someone I can call. That willingness to help each other makes the Houston film community special, and I feel privileged to be a part of it.
What are you working on currently?
I’m currently collaborating with a writer/director in the early stages of a film about corruption and fraud, which we hope will shoot in Houston early next year.
