Closed Topics: clouds of smoke

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clouds of smoke

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Topic: clouds of smoke

Posted By: sbs666@msn.com
Subject: clouds of smoke
Date Posted: 8/01/05 at 5:44pm

HELP! Anyone know a safe way to make a really big cloud of white smoke?

Replies:

Posted By: Topper
Date Posted: 8/01/05 at 10:58pm

A steady blast from a standard CO2 Fire
Extinguisher will produce a handsome cloud of white
water-vapor that is harmless and will pass for
smoke.

The major drawback is that it is extremely LOUD
(and freezing cold.) And you'll have to replenish your
extinguisher fairly often, which can get expensive.

This is the only help I can offer without further
information on the exact effect or situation you're
attempting.

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"None of us really grow up. All we ever do is learn how to behave in public." -- Keith Johnstone

Posted By: sbs666@msn.com
Date Posted: 8/02/05 at 10:38am

It's for a short film I'm making. In one scene, a large cloud of smoke, simulating a small explosion, is supposed to blossom over some trees. Does that give you enough to go on?

Thanks.

Posted By: Juliet
Date Posted: 8/02/05 at 3:39pm

smoke machine? chalk?

Posted By: Topper
Date Posted: 8/03/05 at 12:31am

Perfect. I'd go with the fire-extinguisher for a
one-time effect and shoot MOS, dubbing in the SFX
later. It will give you a good, concentrated blast.

Depending on the height of your trees, you may need
to position someone with the device among the
higher branches. A harness or sturdy platform is
recommended for safety.

A smoke machine will dissipate too quickly
outdoors, and if it's a breezy day, the effect will be
over before it starts.

Also, depending on your local or state laws, you may
be able to purchase a smoke bomb from your
friendly neighborhood fireworks distributor.

Set off the smoke bomb inside a steel drum (or a
METAL -- NOT PLASTIC!) trash can and immediately
contain the smoke with a lid or a tarp.

Once the bomb has fizzled out -- yank the covering off
the can, releasing all the smoke at once. It will
produce a mushroom-like cloud. Whether or not it
will sustain its shape above the treeline is anybody's
guess.

Just be sure to use caution and common sense!
(You might want to keep the fire extinguisher handy,
just in case!)

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"None of us really grow up. All we ever do is learn how to behave in public." -- Keith Johnstone