Studio Dilemma

[Will Nicholson]

Hi all,

 

Though this isn't a cinematography-specific issue, the answer to this question will undoubtedly effect the decisions a DP will make when shooting begins, that's why I'm asking y'all.

 

I'm planning a feature in which a great deal of the film will take place in a wooded creek-bottom under a bridge at night. (Don't ask) Anyway, with any other surroundings, I wouldn't hesitate to do these shots in a studio... My problem, is this: How realistic is it to expect that a set designer could build a workable and convincing site within the confines of a studio on a sub $1million film? Now, I don't need to see a mile down, but there should be enough room for a car, and some room to breath around it.

 

From a lighting and comfort standpoint, the studio is TOTALLY the way to go, but where am I going to get burned in that situation? Budget? Scale?

 

The studio space is no sweat, a friend of mine owns a studio big enough to handle it, so that's not a problem. It's getting all those trees, and brush, and embankments (ans possibly the underside of a bridge) in there within a reasonable budget... Maybe this is more of a set designer question after all... anyone know any in the DFW area of Texas?

 

Thanks all,

 

-Will