Plus, Toys are Awesome.
If you don’t need a detailed hero prop (one that looks extremely realistic), you might find something that works great at a toy store.
(more…)Tag: props
-
Low-Budget Filmmaking Tip #133
And it’s rarely in HD.
You might think having a setpiece that consists of video monitors tracking action all over a location is a cool thing, and in a lot of ways it can be, but think of each one of those video feeds as a completely separate short movie you have to make before you make the movie.
(more…) -
Low-Budget Filmmaking Tip #126
Explosive charges might not be a good idea.
Actors should never be allowed to take costume gear off set. You don’t have to keep their clothes hostage, but it can help.
(more…) -
Low-Budget Filmmaking Tip #124
Eating’s kind of disgusting to watch.
Continuity’s even more important: Dinner scenes are really, really challenging because you have to make sure chicken legs don’t magically heal from one scene to the next. Pay close attention to who is eating what — or just plan to shoot around the plates.
(more…) -
Low-Budget Filmmaking Tip #122
Or none, for that matter.
Continuity’s still important! If you’re using a revolver in your movie, make sure the bullet counts are accurate. Nothing makes you look more dorky than a character talking about how she only has one bullet left when the viewer can plainly see five.
(more…) -
Low-Budget Filmmaking Tip #121
And always look at jewelry.
Continuity’s important. For each “movie” day, make a quick sketch of what each character’s wearing and make sure you double-check that sketch against what you’re shooting. This is not something you can easily fix in post.
(more…) -
Low-Budget Filmmaking Tip #90
Somewhere, there’s a big box of tribbles.
Having extra props means you have extra gifts at the end of production to give particularly hard-working people. People love souvenirs. Sure, maybe they end up selling them on e-Bay, but think of it as trickle-down economics.
(more…) -
Low-Budget Filmmaking Tip #89
…or lost in a lake. Just sayin’…
If you have a special hero prop, try to make twice as many as you might need. If you need four “phase pistols,” make eight. You definitely won’t regret it.
(more…)