Episode 017 - Make Movie Rain for $20

Ryan shows how to build a rain wand and explains how to get cheap outdoor lighting, and Josh stares down Brett.

Episode Run-time - 6:37

Rain Wand

 * Difficulty: Easy
 * Needs:
 * $20 of supplies
 * duct tape
 * PVC glue
 * male to female shut-off valve
 * gear drive sprinkler head
 * 1/2" - 3/4" threaded male connector
 * 3/4" female threaded coupling
 * 1/2" threaded male connector
 * 1/2"x10' PVC pipe
 * Trip to Home Depot or your preferred hardware store
 * 1) Attach the 1/2" threaded male connector to the end of the PVC pipe using PVC glue.
 * 2) Turn to the other end of the PVC pipe and attach the 1/2" - 3/4" male connector, also using PVC glue
 * 3) Once the glue is dry, connect the 3/4" threaded coupling to the 3/4" male connector end of the pipe, then connect the shut off valve to the 3/4" coupling.
 * 4) Attach the sprinkler head to the 1/2" male connector end of the pipe.
 * 5) Wrap the connectors with duct tape to prevent leaks.
 * 6) *Tip: If you're planning to reuse this rig for the future, use Teflon tape (or silicone, or even plumber's putty) on each of the male threads to create a leak proof seal.
 * 7) Attach your garden hose to the valve.

At this point the rain wand is ready. But here are some things to consider:
 * Make the wand shorter to keep it from being cumbersome to handle.
 * Two rain wands are better than one.
 * Make sure that your rain is back-lit so that it appears better on camera.

Quick-Tip: Cheap Outdoor Lighting
Outdoor daylight and a bounce board are great for cheap and easy lighting. A bounce board does what it name implies: it bounces light onto your subject. Professional bounce boards have both a shiny side and a soft side.

When outside, rather than setting your exposure for the actor, set your exposure for the sky. Then using the bounce board, reflect sun light onto your actor. In post, remember to color correct.

Finally, if you cannot afford a professional bounce board, you can make your own using aluminum foil and cardboard, use a white foam board, or even buy a piece of foam insulation that has a reflective side.

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