What is an Original Film Still?

Original Film Stills Rare & Limited Rare Cinema Collection Film Stars Films Photography

Rear Window, 1954

What is a Film Still?

Also known as a Publicity Still or Production Still, a Film Still is a photograph taken during the production of a film, both on set and behind the scenes. Film Stills have played a vital and multifaceted part in the production and promotion of films since the earliest days of cinema.

The Wizard Of Oz, 1939

£680, framed rare print

Rare & Limited Original Film Stills Judy Garland Collectible Kids' Films Rare Cinema Collection Film Stars Vintage Film Posters Films Photography

Production

For a film to ensure continuity, Film Stills were taken throughout production both on set and backstage by a dedicated Unit Stills Photographer. Photographs of the actors were taken to keep track of costuming and makeup choices, as well as room sets and props from scene to scene. These photographs also served to assist the director in the story boarding process.

Scarface, 1983

£480, framed rare print

New Rare & Limited Original Film Stills Film Stars Vintage Film Posters Rare Cinema Collection Films Photography

Promotion

A selection of photographs from the films’ production would be selected for press packs that were sent out to cinemas, newspapers and magazines. Stills that captured iconic scenes from the film accompanied candid photographs of the actors off set, and highly polished and posed studio portraits. The combination of the three types of image helped to create excitement around an upcoming cinematic release and the stars of the film.

The influence of the Film Still as promotional material reached its peak during the Golden Age of Hollywood, where the new fame focused media helped actors such as Marilyn Monroe shoot to new heights of superstardom.

Marilyn Monroe, 1954

£600, framed rare print

Rare & Limited Original Film Stills Marilyn Monroe Vintage Film Posters Film Stars Rare Cinema Collection Films Photography

Rarity

The original photographs that survive today are unique pieces of cinematic history, though there are certain things that make some Stills more collectible than others. Age alone does not equal value – the photographer, the actors, the film itself, and the condition of the photograph all contribute to its rarity and provenance.

Conserved in our archive until each batch is released, our expert framer creates bespoke, fully-archival frames to preserve them – for you to enjoy as part of your collection for a lifetime.