Clay Animation Sets. A set is an environment used for filming. It is constructed to make filming easier but still appear natural when viewed from the camera angle. Sets also can contain props to help make the environment appear even more realistic. Sets should be constructed out of materials that are shapeable and durable. Sets should be also designed and constructed based on the needs of a scene. A set needs to be able to encompass possible props within them and character movements. Also a properly completed set will not distract the viewer from the characters on the screen. Sets need to be designed not just for the visual aspects of a scene. Sets must be constructed to allow the animator to be able to access the characters and props so adjustments can be made to them. Designing a set with removable pieces such as walls can help the animator access needed items without having to be concerned with bumping the camera or set structure. A set should be located in a building or room where it will not be disturbed by people or other factors. The location of the set should be in a place where lighting and other elements can be controlled. An open window with natural light coming through during a shoot is not good. In an animated sequence natural light coming from the sun can distract the viewer from the finished movie because the brightness of the scene will change as the sun sets. To prevent this lighting issue block the light coming through a window by using a black piece of fabric. Then set up a proper controlled lighting system for the set. A set shot under all the previous mentioned correct conditions can be used for shooting a scene on one day and then the animator can stop, come back at a later point in time and start exactly where they left off without any noticeable differences in the scene when completed. Materials to construct sets can be found at a typical hardware store. Wood, wallpaper, wire, paint, nails, screws, brackets, rugs, tape, and glues are all great set building items from hardware stores. Craft and hobby stores can be used to find materials such as foam and plaster which can also be used for set construction. A fabric store can also be used to provide set items such as cloth for set drapes. All these materials can be crafted together to create a functional set. Basically a set can be built using any material that would be used to build a real living environment such as a bedroom. Tools to construct sets can also be found at a typical hardware store. Saw's, screwdrivers, drills, hammers, sandpaper, and pliers are helpful items in set construction. Keep tools handy while shooting a scene. If a set starts coming apart the filmmaker will be ready to repair it and complete the scene. Properly planning a set design will save time, money, and possible frustrations. Be sure to use the script and storyboards to figure out what the needs of the movie are to build the set. http://www.clayanimator.com