Apple box

From Free net encyclopedia

Image:Apple-box.jpg The term apple box, or apple crate, is used in the production of film or photography to indicate a mobile box or platform sturdy enough to support weight. The generally accepted dimensions for an apple box are 12" × 8" × 20", though they may vary by three to five inches in any direction. Any insignificant deviation in size does not disclude an object from being an apple box, though significantly smaller or larger items may be termed a "half-apple," "quarter-apple" or sometimes "double apple." An "eighth-apple" is sometimes called a pancake or a lift.

The very first apple boxes were simple crates used in apple orchards, the modern variety should not be confused with the crates used in modern orchards as they vary in size up to a four-foot cube.

Purpose of an apple box

The apple box is rarely intended to be pictured in the frame. Because it is often out of frame, the apple box is used for raising, stabilizing, or leveling of props, scenery and actor in frame. As it is not intended to appear in frame, an apple box is not considered a prop and is handled by a grip, rather than the Prop Master.

Common uses of an apple box

An apple box is a situational piece of equipment. A prime example would be a leading man who is acting opposite an individual several inches taller than he. An apple (or half apple) can be used in place of lifts to give the illusion of desired height. Conversely, to make an actor appear shorter, the other person in frame can be placed on an apple to create the desired illusion. Other uses are to stabilize or raise lighting stands, camera equipment, and props.

Though a simple tool, the apple box continues to assist in redefining the ingenuity exercised in the creation of modern film.

See also: motion picture terminology