Props Buying

The props buyer is a category in IATSE and a role in the props department that includes, as the name says, buying but also renting, sourcing, prepping, and transporting props to and from set. The buyer is more than just a glorified, well-payed shopper. The buyer must have a keen eye and consider things like colour palate, greekability, use by the actor, and continuity issues.

Here are some tips for the props buyer

If an item is inexpensive just buy 2 while you’re at a store to avoid having to go back a second time. It it’s breakable, buy two no matter what. Items that are unbreakable, really expensive, or unlikely to be lost may not need a double. Items that will be used by a stunt performer (like a character's watch) will need at least a triple. Don’t buy, or present as options, items that do not have the needed quantity available, do not assume you can get more.

Remember the environment. If it’s something that will likely not be used or just wind up in a box forever, send a photo to the prop master before buying. If there’s a greener option that will work (ie recycled paper towels) please get that.

For rental houses that do not provide photos of your rentals, take a picture of what you pickup and when you return. Devise a way to tell what’s a pickup in your photo, and what’s a return. I use a hand symbol of a rabbit or an ‘R’ with my fingers for returns. Other buyers have used their feet or written cards. Either way, it’s helped out multiple times when there have been issues. If you have time, stick around as things are crossed off.

Keep copies of rental photos in a rentals binder with a copy on the props truck. If there's a way to do it digitally, that's even better. When you return something, cross it off from the rentals binder, date and initial.

The nicer you dress will have an impact on how stores treat you. If you’re in a buying position, dressing professionally will help you. When I used to wear a tie to work, I could probably have gotten away with shoplifting all the props.

Remember to ask about multiples, budget, priority, number of options, preferred vendor/brand

When you have the time to walk and check out other stores in the area,, do so. Create a mental database of who sells what. Go into those random odd stores with names like GG Imports and see what they sell.

If buying on Craigslist, always print and keep a copy of the ad before you purchase the item. Get a receipt from the seller if you can. Some shows have a form you need to fill out.

Do not leave things in bags. Unpack items when they arrive.

There are groups on Facebook for props (and set dec) people where people often ask, "where can I find a..." Because you're here, you know the internet can be a good resource, but be sure to check the obvious rental houses and sources before asking, and state that in your post. It's your job to do, not the internet's.

Online Shopping

If purchasing on Amazon.com, use smile.amazon.com and it will give some money to charity at no cost to you.

Double check your shipping times and availability. Some companies don't list shipping to Canada on their website, but can ship to Canada if you call the order in.

List the production company on orders. This way, it's easier for a shipping company like UPS to clear your item through customs with your show's brokerage company.