by Gizella Calingo | Owner, Founder, and Writer of GIZELLA, Gizella Films & Gizella's Life
Posted on June 04, 2024 🌹 Last updated on June 06, 2024
Mastering the use of props is a multifaceted art form that demands a high level of expertise and skill, precision, and meticulous attention to detail. Continuity is of the utmost importance in film and TV production, as even the most subtle discrepancies can be glaringly apparent to audiences and detract from the storytelling experience.
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Here are the 13 types of Film, TV and Theatre Props:
#1 HAND PROPS
Hand props, referred to as objects held or carried by an actor, encompass a wide array of items, including umbrellas, guns, suitcases, money, beverages, torches, or any other object that an actor may handle. While often considered minor, these props are pivotal in advancing the storyline.
Moreover, they may encompass perishable items that require daily or periodic replacement during the run of the show. The category of hand props extends to a diverse array of objects, including staff, food, weapons, lanterns, candles, canes, parasols, and virtually any item that an actor could handle or pick up.
This category encompasses a broad spectrum, ranging from weapons to flashlights to keys. Once an actor interacts with a prop, it falls into the hand props classification. Additionally, hand props often necessitate guidance from a prop master on safe and proper handling, particularly when involving weapons.
#2 PERSONAL PROPS
Personal props, also known as hand props, are closely linked with specific characters or personalities, exemplified by items such as Harry Potter's wand, Star Wars lightsaber, Indiana Jones’ bullwhip, or Frodo's One Ring. Worn or held by a particular actor, these props enhance a character's narrative arc. They encompass many items, including cups, wallets, combs, pocket watches, and weapons, provided the actor interacts with and uses them.
Among the most iconic personal props are also called hero props. These items are instrumental in shaping a character’s identity and story. Interacting with personal and hand props becomes central to the character's persona.
#3 FOOD PROPS
In theatrical productions, performers often incorporate food into their routines, with the props department responsible for its preparation. This food must be palatable, easily consumable, and, most importantly, safe.
Safe food preparation must occur in a clean and sanitised space, such as a designated break room or a well-equipped kitchen. It's vital to store perishable items in dedicated refrigerators and promptly dispose of any spoiled food.
Cleanliness and adherence to high hygiene standards are essential during food preparation. After the performance, the crew must thoroughly clean and store all dishes. Thank you for your attention to these critical matters.
#4 TRIM PROPS
Trim props refer to set decorations displayed on the walls, such as pictures, curtains, and other similar items. This category encompasses paintings, photographs, curtains, and other ornamental items that are typically hung. Trim props, including picture frames, curtains, blinds, rugs, chandeliers, tapestries, wallpaper, and artwork, contribute to the polished look of a production. The term trim prop may also refer to literal architectural trims, such as crown moulding, floor baseboards, and millwork. These items sometimes leave a lasting impression in iconic scenes.
Similarly, the retro 70s, hexagonal-patterned carpet in the hallway from "The Shining" and the large pink building with white trim on the front and side windows from "The Grand Budapest Hotel" are also noteworthy examples. Actors may sometimes interact with items on the walls, such as windows, pictures, frames, curtains, or blinds. Trim props refer to any prop hanging on the wall and interacting with an actor.
#5 SET PROPS
Set props play a crucial role in elevating a set's visual appeal. Unlike set dressing, actors engage with set props, which usually encompass large, mobile items not permanently affixed to the set. Set props encompass a range of items such as furniture like couches, kitchen tables, and beds, as well as appliances, cars, canoes, and other scenic elements. These elements are essential in crafting the overall visual aesthetic of a film or theatrical production.
Significant examples of set props include Door Knockers from "Labyrinth" and over-the-top funky sculptural furnishings from "Beetlejuice." Incorporating set props, such as furniture pieces like a couch, chairs, beds, or side tables, further enhances the visual environment for actor interaction. It is essential to acknowledge that classifying a prop as a set prop can sometimes be ambiguous, especially when determining its movability, like a chair, or whether it is built-in, such as a wardrobe or cupboard.
#6 SET DRESSING
Various elements contribute to creating an authentic setting, including background items that seamlessly blend in without drawing undue attention. These can comprise light fixtures, books arranged on shelves, floor coverings such as carpets or rugs, windows, tableware, and articles of clothing within open wardrobes. The props department is sometimes responsible for special effects involving physical and mechanical components, such as an exploding briefcase, a self-activating lamp, or an electric train set. Set dressing encompasses items similar to props but is not typically handled by the actor. Some of these items, known as 'practicals,' mimic real-life functionality on stage, such as lamps or chandeliers. 'Trim props' refer to set dressings affixed to walls, including paintings, window treatments, and curtains.
#7 PROP CURRENCY
Fake money is often used as a prop in productions. Fake coins can be made using various materials, but remember that counterfeit bills are prohibited. Federal law allows the creation and use of fake money under specific criteria: the fake money must be noticeably different from the real currency in size, printed on only one side of the paper, and any graphic images must be destroyed after use.
#8 GREENS
This category includes real and artificial plants, flowers, and other similar decorative items. These items are predominantly meant for indoor use and are usually smaller in scale. The scenic department usually manages more oversized outdoor items. The term "greens" refers to both real and artificial plants used for decoration.
#9 MECHANICAL SPECIAL EFFECTS
The prop department encompasses mechanical special effects, which pertain to any special effect that does not rely on electricity for operation. If a pull pin or a string is used to operate a trick, it is classified as a prop. Mechanical noise makers are categorised as props, while taped sound effects are classified as electrical, and so forth.
#10 OPEN FLAME, PYRO, AND FIRE SAFETY
Strict safety measures must be followed when using fire effects on stage. This includes thorough planning, compliance with regulations, and obtaining necessary licenses. Only a licensed professional should handle pyro materials, and a designated fire watch must be in place to manage emergencies. Proper storage of flammable materials and compliance with post-event cleanup procedures are essential.
#11 ATMOSPHERICS
Atmospherics refers to various natural or artificial environmental phenomena affecting visibility or atmospheric conditions in a given area. These phenomena may include fog, smoke, snow, rain, dust, and other similar factors. These atmospheric elements play a significant role in shaping the visual and atmospheric characteristics of a particular environment or setting.
#12 WEAPONS
Productions use prop weapons, including impact, bladed, and firearms. They must be treated with care, as mishandling them can lead to severe injuries and legal issues. Only designated and trained crew members are allowed to handle the weapons. Even with dulled edges, prop weapons can cause harm. Firing blanks from prop guns can also be dangerous due to unexpected gas vents. Trick weapons, like knives with retractable blades, may jam and fail to retract. Many fight choreographers prefer non-retracting blades and actor training over mechanical devices.
#13 BREAKAWAY
Breakaway props are fragile items designed to break quickly on cue or impact. They are commonly used in film and television to ensure actors' safety during stunts. These props can be made from brittle sugar glass and other synthetic blends to maintain stability while breaking easily. Laminated tempered glass is sometimes employed to create a realistic effect, such as shattering an entire window. Breakaway props are essential for iconic scenes.
In the context of long-running shows, props may need to be realistically aged to add depth and authenticity to the narrative. While props may not solely determine a production's success, they certainly enhance its authenticity and credibility, playing a pivotal role in advancing the storyline and contributing to the overall impact of the visual narrative.
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0%DIY HANDMADE PROPS
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Posted on June 04, 2024
Last updated on June 06, 2024
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