Props and Continuity — Hand Props, Hero Props and Multiples, Labels, Continuity Photos, Food and Weapons

The action draws the line. A vase on a table becomes a hand prop in that scene the moment an actor picks it up. On some productions set dressing looks after set props and the props team looks after hand props, so agree early on who owns what and nothing falls through the cracks.

• Hero prop — an object that matters to the story or gets a close-up. It gets the most careful finish and is stored separately between setups.
• Multiples — prepare several of anything that breaks, gets wet or wears out. If an item needs to be fresh every take, bring more than the takes you expect.
• Stunt props — for scenes where an object is thrown or dropped, use a separate version made of light, safe material. Shoot close-ups with the hero prop and action with the stunt version.
• Damage stages — if an object deteriorates over the story, make a version for each stage so you can grab the right one even when scenes are shot out of order.

For each item, the props list records the number, name, scenes, character who uses it, quantity, how it was sourced (bought, made or rented) and where it is stored. Put the same number on the object and its storage box, and each shoot morning pack an on-set box with only the numbers in that day’s scenes. Write the rental house and return date on the same line for rented items so nothing gets left behind at wrap.

• Hand out and collect — give hand props just before the take and take them back as soon as you hear cut. Props often vanish in actors’ pockets.
• On-set kit — pack tools to fix props on the spot: tape, glue, cleaning cloths, spare batteries.

Films are not shot in script order, so the scene that follows today’s may be shot weeks later. That is why you photograph the water left in a glass, the page a book is open to, even how far a cigarette has burned. Compare your photos with the script supervisor’s notes to confirm continuity holds whichever take is used.

• Food — prepare enough to replate every take, and ask actors about allergies and foods they can’t eat in advance.
• Hygiene — wash anything that touches the mouth, and keep perishable food chilled between takes.
• Liquids — alcohol and coffee are usually replaced with a drink of similar color. Refill to the same level every take.
• Breakables — anything that needs to look like glass should be a breakaway prop made to shatter safely. Clear the fragments right after the shot.