Entering the film and television industry can seem like a daunting task. But as Ray Holman explains, there are many ways, and many skills, that can lead you there.

It isn’t simply about fashion and fabric – understanding television, film and theatre production from the ground-up is vital, and being a part of a big and disparate design team is one of the most rewarding parts of the process.

There are many ways into the industry – some academic, some not – and many skills which can lead you to become involved in a costume department.

Ray’s own journey is completely unique and personal to him, but each member of the team he has assembled has come from a different background. They share one common trait though – a passion for a costume, character and storytelling.

Doctor Who is testament to why a team of people with wide-ranging talents is vital to its success. With each new episode are new design challenges and new characters.

Knowledge of period dress will always be necessary in designing for Doctor Who, but then so is an understanding of technology and modern design techniques which come from that. Creatures from new civilisations will always have tonal touchstones that influence every aspect of their design from costume to spaceships to weaponry, and a wide and varied skillset within a department is vital for capturing that.