What is a prop master in film?

A prop is any physical, moveable object that is seen in a film or TV show. A prop can be countless things. It can be a pen that an actor fidgets with when they’re thinking, a wine glass that characters sip out of, or a car that’s driven in a scene. The props department is in charge of all the props: they make or purchase all the props, sort and store them, and take care of them on set. A prop master is the person responsible for overseeing the props department.

What happens in pre production?

The props department–and therefore the props master’s–work begins in pre production. They work with producers, directors, screenwriters, and set designers to create a list of props needed for shooting. Then, they create or collect the props. They may create the props themselves, or they may hire artisans to create the props. They work alongside production buyers to source other props from stores or online retailers. They also create a “set and strike” schedule so that props are properly taken care of and accounted for throughout production.

During pre production, prop masters need a variety of skills. They need a strong artistic instinct, they need to be able to collaborate with other departments to realize the director’s vision, they need to have clear communication skills, they need to have organizational skills,they need to be able to balance a budget and organize staff, and they need to be able to research to make sure all props are appropriate for the time period and location of the movie.

What happens in production?

On set, the props master and the props department preps the props for each day’s shooting schedule. They attended to the props on set and make sure they are ready for each scene. On set, they have to have excellent communication with other departments, as well as the skills necessary to move large, heavy, or delicate props and keep the items (and crew members) safe. They also must have managerial skills, including scheduling transportation and storage of items and managing staff

In post production, the props department and props master is responsible for storing, selling, or disposing of the props that were used during production.

How do I become a prop master?

If you want to become a prop master in film, work on the key skills mentioned above to improve your chances of getting work as a prop master. Try to work your way up by getting hired in the prop department, art department, or as a PA. Here is a list of entry level film production jobs that could help you get your foot in the door on bigger sets.

If you work on self produced or smaller scale productions, work hard to gain the skills necessary to be a prop master. On small sets, the props department may be very small, just one person, or even a job that is combined with other departments, such as set design or production design. If you are in a position where you’re wearing many hats, make sure you continue to prioritize your job as prop master, as this is vital to the success of the film. Props are a key part of storytelling, help set the scene, help the actors do their jobs, and are important to the look and continuity of the film.