Prototyping and tool-making on set: A game-changer for Bollywood

Explore the power of on-set 3D prototyping in filmmaking, where custom 3D print camera accessories and tools can be built on the spot.

 

Call 000-800-040-2543 (9:30 AM to 5:30 PM India local time) if you need our assistance.

Behind the scenes or the making of film video production and movie crew team working in silhouette of camera and equipment set in studio.
Image courtesy of Ppengcreative

When would I need prototyping or tool-making on set?

In the high-pressure environment of filmmaking, especially in Bollywood, every second counts. A director calls for a shot that requires a unique camera angle—something dynamic, fresh, and, most importantly, never-before-seen. But there’s a catch: the perfect tool to make this shot possible doesn’t exist yet. This is where on-set 3D prototyping and tool-making come into play, turning what could have been an obstacle into a creative solution.

Bengali women performing dhunuchi dance on the occasion of Durga Puja
Image courtesy of IndiaPix/IndiaPicture

The challenge: Standard tools in the M&E industry

Bollywood is known for its elaborate sets, intricate props, and innovative cinematography. However, behind every breathtaking scene is a crew working tirelessly to make sure everything runs smoothly. One of the biggest challenges the crew may run into is the need for specific tools that may not be available.

Imagine this: A cinematographer is working on a high-speed car chase scene. The director wants an angle from the front bumper, capturing the speed and intensity of the scene up close. But traditional camera mounts do not work here—they are too bulky, too rigid, and simply not designed for the job. Ordering a custom mount could take days if not weeks. 

Similar challenges can come up with handheld shots. Maybe a gimbal or GoPro needs to be mounted in an unusual position, or a prop needs to work in sync with a camera. In these situations, the need for customisation is clear, but finding a solution isn’t always easy.

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The solution: 3D prototyping and Autodesk Fusion

On-set 3D prototyping offers a quick and cost-effective solution. With tools like Autodesk Fusion, filmmakers can design, modify, and 3D print camera accessories and custom tools on set. Whether it is a new mount, a modified gimbal, or a specialised camera rig, the possibilities are nearly endless.

Autodesk Fusion is a powerful tool for professionals in the M&E industry. It brings together industrial and mechanical design, simulation, teamwork, and machining into one tool. This versatility allows filmmakers to create 3D models of the tools they need, test them virtually, and then 3D print them on-site.

Imagine the same car chase scenario: Instead of waiting days for a custom mount, the production manager can work with their prop maker or 3D printing technician to create a model in Fusion, tweak it to perfection, and have it printed within hours. The mount is then ready to go, tailored perfectly to the requirements of the shot.

Practical applications: From GoPro mounts to gimbal mods

Let’s look at a few practical examples of how 3D prototyping saves time and cost on set.

Camera on red sport car

GoPro car mounting

Standard GoPro mounts are great, but they are not always versatile enough for creative shots. With Autodesk Fusion, you can design a mount that fits snugly on a car’s bumper, hood, or roof, allowing for camera angles that would not be possible with off-the-shelf mounts.

 

3D printed gimbal accessories

3D printed gimbal accessories

Gimbals are essential for smooth, stable footage, but sometimes the standard settings may not fit the director’s vision. By using Fusion to design custom handles, mounts, or even counterweights, you can modify the gimbal to suit the specific needs of the shot.

 

Camera mount 3D printing

Camera mount 3D printing

Fusion allows you to design mounts that are lightweight, durable, and tailored to the exact dimensions of your camera and accessories. You can even incorporate quick-release mechanisms or additional mounting points for added functionalities.

 

Autodesk software for prototyping and tool-making on set

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Capture every perfect shot

Autodesk helps you design, prototype, and 3D print camera accessories and tools you need to capture every perfect shot.

 

Call 000-800-040-2543 (9:30 AM to 5:30 PM India local time) if you need our assistance.

Overcoming prototyping and tool-making challenges

Overcoming prototyping and tool-making challenges

While the benefits of 3D prototyping are clear, there are also challenges. Designing in Fusion requires a certain skill level, and not everyone on set may be familiar with 3D modelling. This is where collaboration is important. Set designers, prop makers, and even camera operators can work together to bring their collective expertise to the table.

Having access to a 3D printer on set is key. The good news is that 3D printers have become more affordable and portable, making it easier than ever to bring this technology to your filming location. Whether it is a small desktop printer for quick jobs or a more advanced model for larger, more complex prints, the investment pays for itself in the long run.

Woman dressed in a traditional Indian dance suit shows beauty of classic dance.
Image courtesy of Sofia Zhuravets

The Bollywood spin: Innovation meets tradition

Bollywood has always been a blend of tradition and innovation. While the industry is deeply rooted in its cultural heritage, it is also unafraid to embrace new technologies and push creative boundaries. Prototyping and tool-making on set perfectly embody this spirit, allowing filmmakers to stay true to their vision while exploring new possibilities.

Imagine Bollywood’s iconic dance sequences. Imagine being able to design custom rigs that allow the camera to move easily between dancers, capturing every twist and turn with precision. Or, think about the action sequences Bollywood films do so well. You could capture new angles—such as from a weapon’s point-of-view—that wouldn’t be possible without custom 3D-printed tools.

Filming with professional camera background

The future of filmmaking in India

The future of filmmaking in India is bright, and with tools like Autodesk Fusion and 3D printing technology, it is also incredibly exciting. By embracing these innovations, India’s media and entertainment industry can overcome the challenges of traditional tool-making and take creativity to new heights.

Whether you’re a set designer, propmaker, cinematographer, or director, the ability to prototype and create custom tools and accessories on set opens up a world of possibilities.

Call 000-800-040-2543 (9:30 AM to 5:30 PM India local time) if you need our assistance.

Prototyping and tool-making free resources

Learn everything you need to know about prototyping, from its necessity for your product to non-negotiable steps and potential production costs.

 

Get all the details about 3D printing and toolmaking with Autodesk’s Fusion and learn all the ways Fusion can support you through a development cycle. 

 

Get familiar with Autodesk Fusion and its powerful extensions for on-set 3D prototyping and toolmaking, including electronics design, simulation, generative design, rendering, and more.

 

Prototyping and tool-making frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Why are prototyping and tool-making important on a film set?

Tool-making is crucial on a film set because it allows filmmakers to create or customise tools that meet specific needs. This can be particularly important for achieving unique camera angles, securing equipment, or creating custom props quickly.

How does 3D printing benefit filmmakers in India?

3D printing allows filmmakers to quickly and cost-effectively create custom tools, camera mounts, and props on set. It eliminates the wait time for custom orders and provides flexibility to adapt to on-the-fly changes in the shoot.

What is Autodesk Fusion, and how is it used in prototyping?

Autodesk Fusion is a 3D modelling software that allows users to design and test prototypes digitally. In filmmaking, it’s used to create models of custom tools or accessories that can then be 3D printed for use on set.

What are some common tools that can be prototyped on set?

Common tools include custom camera mounts, gimbal modifications, GoPro mounts, rigging components, and specialised props. These tools can be designed to fit specific requirements that off-the-shelf products might not meet.

How do I choose the right materials for 3D printing in filmmaking?

The choice of materials depends on the specific needs of the project. For lightweight and durable tools, materials like PLA or ABS plastic are commonly used. For props that need to look realistic, materials like resin might be better.

Can 3D printing be used for larger film projects in India?

Yes, 3D printing is scalable and can be used for projects of any size. For larger productions, multiple printers can be used simultaneously, and larger objects can be printed in sections and assembled.

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