Creating “The Look” for a Video Production Props & Scenery

Production Designer or Art Director Different people use these titles for basically the same job. These people design the physical environment of the film or television set to create the mood called for by the script. They work closely with the producer & director. They supervise a number of other people.

Production Design Team Scenic Designers Model Makers Carpenters, Painters, Electricians Costume Designers, Makeup Artists Property Masters

Creating the Set The goal is to convince the audience that what they see is natural & real. You use a combination of camera effects, lighting techniques, audio effects, background & accessory objects between the background & the camera. You must make the maximum impact on the viewer with a minimum of cost & effort. To accomplish this we use a technique called contrived illusion.

Contrived Illusion o Contrived illusion means that viewers see only what the camera lens shows them; what the camera doesn't see, doesn’t need to be there. o So, when designing a set, you don't add anything that won't be within the camera's view. o Example: For a restaurant scene, we need tables, chairs, plates, silverware, and glasses. We DON’T need to make an actual kitchen to make the food.

What do you see & NOT see? The set of Married With Children

Items Used on Set Flats: wall units Platforms: raised floor units Props: set pieces used to make the scene look real & complete Hand props: carried and/or used by talent Set props: stay on the set at all times

Property Master Creates, finds & organizes all props. Works with set dresser. Choosing & arranging props is referred to as "dressing the set.” Can be extremely challenging to Locate real objects for a specific scene Create fake objects both safe & believable Add visual interest without being distracting Stay on budget

Consider what is needed for a sitcom set in an apartment versus a morning news show.

Sitcom in an apartment

Morning News Show

Balance & Continuity All items on the set must work together in scale and color. This creates balance in the scene. Continuity must be maintained, especially with props. The placement of items must be consistent when doing different takes.

Examples of Set Design

Remember! The MOST important factor to consider when designing a set is HOW IT WILL LOOK ON CAMERA. Cereal boxes fill the shelves in Jerry Seinfeld’s sitcom kitchen.

Don’t Forget! Studios are place for both make believe and business operations. You need to be set up to handle both.