Art directors work in film and television studios, theatres and other performance spaces, and on sets at specific locations. They work long hours, often until late, and may be required to work on weekends or public holidays. They may be required to travel locally, across the State, interstate or overseas to shoot on location.

Art directors may use mobile phones and laptop computers to coordinate a wide range of people involved in the production process. They also use computers to set and monitor budgets, and plan schedules. They may sketch or paint design ideas or use creative software programs such as Photoshop, Illustrator or InDesign to produce designs or storyboards to convey their concepts.