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 SetThe 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 Illusiono 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 SetFlats: wall units

Platforms: raised floor units

Props: set pieces used to make the scene look real & complete

Hand props: carried and/or used by talentSet props: stay on the set at all times

Property MasterCreates, finds & organizes all props.

Works with set dresser. Choosing & arranging props is referred to as "dressing the set.”

Can be extremely challenging toLocate real objects for a specific sceneCreate fake objects both safe & believableAdd visual interest without being distractingStay on budget

Consider what is needed

for a sitcom set inan apartment

versusa 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.