CHAPTER 13 Backgrounds and Sets Setdressings: Set decorations are used to create the character of the set. They can establish the mood and style of the production. The dressings can include fireplaces, lamps, plants, pictures, or draperies (Figures 13.23 and 13.30). Handproperties(props): Any items that are touched and handled by the talent during the production. These could include a pen, dishes, a cell phone, or silverware (Figures 13.24 and 13.25). SET CONSIDERATIONS Camera Height The camera's height has a significant effect on how much of the scene is visible in the shot. From a lower viewpoint, less of the middle ground is seen, which reduces the feeling of space and distance in the picture. Things nearer the cam- era become more prominent--perhaps overly so. Even very small foreground objects nearby can obscure the shot. But raise the camera just a little, and not only will it shoot over them, but the audience will not even realize that they are there (Figure 13.26). As the camera's height is increased, more of the middle ground comes into view, and the audi- ence gets a greater impression of space and distance. However, if the scene is shot from a very high angle, or overhead shots are used, the audience will no longer feel that they are within a FIGURE 13.25 This prop was used during a production of The X-Files. The actor bent