How is prop continuity maintained on a film set?

• A. By relying on memory of the prop department only.
• B. With prop lists, logs, and on-set continuity tracking.
• C. By changing props from shot to shot to create variety.
• D. By keeping no records and improvising.

Answer: (B)

Prop continuity relies on a system of documentation and on-set checks. The prop department keeps a master list of all props and a detailed log that records exactly which prop is used in each scene, shot, and take, along with its condition, any alterations, and where it’s placed. A continuity supervisor (often the script supervisor in collaboration with the prop team) oversees the process to ensure the same prop appears in the same state and position across different angles and takes, and to guide re-dressing between setups. This coordinated approach lets editors cut between shots without noticing mismatches. Relying on memory alone is impractical with many props and takes, changing props from shot to shot creates obvious inconsistencies, and improvising with no records leads to mismatches.