Movie props include almost every object you see in any movie. Film productions require a large number of props in order to make each set look realistic and authentic. A set of a restaurant will need related props such as serving trays, food and beverages, pots and pans, order-taking pads and other culinary equipment. An office scene requires desks, computers, calculators and many other small props to make the movie set look like an actual office.
No matter what type of set you are creating, you will need to purchase or rent a full array of props to make it look realistic. Film props can include standard everyday objects, or specialized props such as:
1. Vintage film props that are created to look like they are from another era;
2. Stunt props such as fake knives, rubber bricks or rocks and full body dummies;
3. Western gear to give a film the look and feel of the wild west;
4. Horror movie props like axes, chain saws and even realistic -looking body parts.
Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done
Contact movie prop stores to find everything you need for your film set
The company you hire for film prop services should be able to obtain anything you need for your type of set. So, whether you must design a realistic bedroom setting or a fully stocked convenience store, you can find the props that will enhance your movie.
I recommend: Shop for props at
Independent Studio Services or
Props for Today. Find vintage items from
VintageProps.com.
Find movie prop companies that produce vehicles of all makes and models
Film makers pay a lot of attention to every detail, right down to making sure they only have vehicles that are from the proper time period for the movie they are shooting. They may also need specialized vehicles such as tanks, military jeeps, buses, emergency vehicles or taxis.
I recommend: Rent military vehicles from
Tactical Truck. Reserve any type of automobile from
Movie Time Cars. Order replica and custom made cars from
Code One Custom Auto, which is a part of Code One Enterprises.
Locate suppliers of gun props for films
Any film that includes guns will require replicas that either do not fire or shoot blanks. The safety of the cast and crew is of the utmost importance, so no real guns are ever used. After the film is completed, the sound effect of an actual gun firing will be added to make the scene more realistic. Companies that offer film prop services keep replica guns in stock for use in theater and film productions.
I recommend: Find all of the vintage, military and current guns you need at
Movie Guns,
Movie Gun Services or
Hollywood Prop Supply.
Hire companies to produce custom made movie props
Many movies will require specific props to be designed exclusively for the production. These are one-of-a-kind objects that must be created from scratch based on the design concept provided by the film makers.
I recommend: Give your blueprints to
Michael Plesh and Company or
Tom Spina Designs and have them bring your conception to life.
Tips & Tactics
Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide
- Find a movie prop service that can provide you with props and wardrobe from a single source.
- Get quotes from several movie prop stores to find out which one has the best price for all the props you need.
The official source of Film Prop Services is the Film Prop Services page at Business.com
Related Resources from Business.com
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