Props are the unsung heroes of set design, bringing scenes to life with authenticity and detail. From sourcing at prop houses to custom fabrication, designers have a wealth of options to find or create the perfect items for any production.
Managing props involves careful budgeting, tracking, and maintenance. Balancing rental and purchase decisions, implementing inventory systems, and establishing handling protocols ensure props are available and in top condition throughout filming.
Sourcing Props
Prop Houses and Specialty Stores
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Top images from around the web for Prop Houses and Specialty Stores
VFS Film Production: 'Milligan’s Stew' | The Studio Intensiv… | Flickr View original
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Sound Design Foley Prop Room | Foley is the art of recording… | Flickr View original
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The Making of Harry Potter 29-05-2012 | Prop-Making Magic A … | Flickr View original
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VFS Film Production: 'Milligan’s Stew' | The Studio Intensiv… | Flickr View original
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Sound Design Foley Prop Room | Foley is the art of recording… | Flickr View original
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Prop houses offer extensive collections of items for film and theater productions
Provide wide range of props from furniture to small decorative objects
Often organized by time period, style, or type of prop
Allow production designers to browse and select items in person
Thrift stores and antique shops serve as valuable resources for unique, vintage items
Offer affordable options for period-specific props
Require more time investment to search for appropriate items
Can yield unexpected finds that add authenticity to set designs
Online Marketplaces and Digital Resources
Online marketplaces (eBay, Etsy) expand sourcing options beyond local availability
Provide access to rare or specialized props from sellers worldwide
Allow for keyword searches to find specific items quickly
Digital prop libraries offer 3D models and textures for virtual set design
Social media platforms can connect designers with collectors or specialty prop makers
Rental vs. Purchase Considerations
Rental options provide cost-effective solutions for short-term use
Purchasing becomes more economical for props needed throughout production or multiple projects
Factors influencing rental vs. purchase decisions include:
Duration of prop use in production
Storage capabilities of production company
Potential for prop reuse in future projects
Uniqueness or customization requirements of the prop
Rental agreements often include maintenance and insurance considerations
Creating Props
Custom Fabrication Techniques
Involves designing and building props from scratch to meet specific production needs
Utilizes various materials (wood, metal, plastics, foam) based on prop requirements
Techniques include:
Sculpting for organic shapes or detailed figurines
Molding and casting for creating multiples of the same prop
Woodworking for furniture or architectural elements
Metalworking for weapons or industrial props
Requires collaboration between designers, artisans, and specialty craftspeople
Allows for precise control over prop appearance, size, and functionality
3D Printing and Digital Fabrication
enables rapid prototyping and production of complex prop designs
Benefits of 3D printing in prop creation:
Ability to produce intricate geometries difficult to achieve with traditional methods
Quick turnaround for last-minute prop needs or modifications
Consistency in producing multiple copies of the same prop