Tips on how to get the props you need for your project

Maura N.

The Last Black Unicorn
When you are working on a project, you will need different props. Depending on your location, it can be easier or harder to obtain those props. There are a few options that you might have:

1. Craft your own props

This option is time consuming and requires skill, creativity and raw materials. You can also use a 3D printer. A more expensive alternative is to hire someone to craft the props for you.

2. Buy your props

You can try purchasing your props online. The problem is that you might need custom-made props for your project and you might not be able to find exactly what you are looking for.

3. Rent your props

If you live in an area where rental is an option, you can rent your props. There are plenty rental places you can choose from.

How do you get the props that you need for your project?
 
Speaking of props, I saw a very cool video on YouTube with a prop rental house from Los Angeles. I think I would be like a little kid who just entered the cool toy store if I would ever go there. :D
This was the video I saw:
I guess I would feell the same :D
 
The city where you live in affects the amount of time and work you have to put into your movies. Some cities are just great because you have good actors you can count on, great rental options for cameras and equipment and of course, for props. But if you live somewhere where none of these are available, you have to work harder and get creative.
 
3d printing holds so much promise... but in my limited experience, I'd just say don't count on it being a magic replicator. Count on many hours of cursing when the technology doesn't work like you want it to, and your plastic bits warp, are just piles of plastic spaghetti, crack, or have other issues... there's a real skill set there. It's a bit like buying a high end camera or professional steadicam rig or drone and assuming you'll be able to get professional results with it right away just because you have the cool toy. Either put in the time to become a specialist, or leave it to the specialists. That said, there are various print-to-order sites where you can send them designs, and they'll ship you back a printed object, or some libraries and schools have maker spaces that can print things for you (and have support staff!).
 
3d printing holds so much promise... but in my limited experience, I'd just say don't count on it being a magic replicator. Count on many hours of cursing when the technology doesn't work like you want it to, and your plastic bits warp, are just piles of plastic spaghetti, crack, or have other issues... there's a real skill set there. It's a bit like buying a high end camera or professional steadicam rig or drone and assuming you'll be able to get professional results with it right away just because you have the cool toy. Either put in the time to become a specialist, or leave it to the specialists. That said, there are various print-to-order sites where you can send them designs, and they'll ship you back a printed object, or some libraries and schools have maker spaces that can print things for you (and have support staff!).
Yes, the only problem with print-to-order sites is that they do not ship worldwide. The second problem is when you are working on a small budget for your project, and the price of one prop is the 60% of the price of the 3D Printer :)
 

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