Rain in the studio

Rain, which so often interferes with location filming, can sometimes prove to be almost as great a nuisance when it is created in the studio. The problems lie not so much in producing the rain as in dealing with it when it reaches the floor.

Rain in the studio

Falling rain is usually achieved by arranging a series of drilled water-pipes over the scene below. Fixed pipes give an obviously static pattern of rain and to counteract this, alternate pipes must be gently rocked back and forth. A low-speed wind-machine, suitably positioned, adds a touch of realism.

Where long runs of tube are installed, the drilled holes nearest the supply spurt fiercely while those furthest away do little more than dribble. To overcome this, the pipes must be fed from both ends and, if necessary, also in the middle.

Rain down a window

A sheet of clear rigid plastic or glass positioned behind the studio window suffices for this effect if a length of drilled water pipe is suitably angled at the top.

If the sheet of glass is framed, a trough can be constructed in the bottom of the frame to collect the water. It is then an easy matter to install a small, electrically driven pump to return the water from the trough to the pipe at the top, allowing the effect to run continuously without supervision.

Wet/dry/wet

If practical falling rain is introduced between the camera and the actors it is not necessary for the performers to get soaking wet. This is important because rehearsals, retakes and hold-ups would cause the actor’s clothing to become saturated.

Supplementary pipes behind the acting area will give depth and convince viewers that the rain extends to the back of the scene.

A pre-recorded rain loop can be superimposed over the scene but prohibits panning movements because it moves with the camera.

Water on the floor

A stout tarpaulin with its edges raised on lengths of timber is used to contain fallen water. Under this it is prudent to place layers of cloth. Sacks of sawdust should always be on hand to dam major leaks.

Where possible a sump area should be incorporated in the layout so that the water can be pumped to an outside drain.

Rain On Windows
Placed behind studio windows this rain effect can be left to run without attention.