Why Artificial Snow?

What could be simpler than arriving at a pristine snow covered location to establish an impressive winter backdrop for filming?

Locations with real snow allow the ultimate in artistic and camera freedom. Fantastic views can be utilised but what happens when somebody walks, rides or drives over that ‘all important area’ of untouched snow before a shot has even been taken? It is then, amongst the sound of wailing and the gnashing of teeth, that the advantages of having artificial snow on standby become apparent.
Returning real snow to pristine condition after the lighting has been set, focus checked, actors and action rehearsed, is made much simpler by the judicious use of artificial snow. It can be matched to any requirement. Artificial substitutes allow for rapid redressing of action areas in as little time as it takes for the camera to re-load. Repairs using real snow can be difficult, time-consuming and unconvincing, especially when that slushy mess occurs from overuse or rising temperatures.
Genuine falling snow is unpredictable. It arrives when it is not wanted causing continuity problems, it refuses to appear when it is needed, leading to lost time. Artificial snow can solve these dilemmas providing the director with exactly what is required. Everything from a single floating snowflake to a raging blizzard can be simulated. Tremendous advances have been made using new materials that leave the location undamaged and litter free. Artificial snowflakes exist that melt on the shoulders of actors as they enter and stand in warm rooms. Three-dimensional snow materials are available that allow the camera to take extreme close-ups of faces or other details whilst snow is falling.

The advantages of artificial snow are multiple and varied. For the Director, artificial snow support allows much greater artistic freedom and maximum use of the location. Rehearsals can be carried out in situ, the best camera position can be used for repeated takes. Fresh or level snow is guaranteed for every shot regardless of how many crew have crossed the set.
Snow can be matched later for inserts or close-ups, either on stage or back at location. Continuity can be guaranteed. Artificial snow provides insurance against thaw and enables filming to continue for as long as the shoot requires, using the best features of the location unfettered by changing seasons or rising temperatures.
There are over one hundred types of artificial snow currently being manufactured. Any form of the real thing can be matched with a substitute that offers the same visual and action quality to camera. These substitutes also satisfy all the ecological considerations of the location.
The Location department’s work is made simpler as issues of access and traffic routes are eased. Access can be allowed across areas that will later be filmed on. The whole unit can be positioned on any area, confident in the knowledge that it can be redressed with fresh even snow. This flexibility provides access to many locations that have been previously ignored.
The Art department can insert props, dingles, log cabins, anything at all that is required to set the scene knowing that it can be easily dressed to match the location. Unwanted features can be hidden with additional snowdrifts or fresh snow covering.
Effects such as avalanches, collapsing ice bridges, even snowballs are safer when created using artificial substitutes in controlled conditions. The use of lighter weight materials allows for more dramatic action when working with stunt teams. Materials such as non-slip ice make it easier for actors to concentrate on their performance. Animals are equally well catered for with warm soft snow that will protect them whilst maintaining the illusion of winter.

For sensitive sites eco-friendly and biodegradable materials are readily available. Biodegradability is a double-edged sword. Rapid biodegradability can be as harmful as toxic products to the ecological balance of some locations. This is especially relevant around areas of drinking water particularly if they contain fish farms or oyster beds. Only a few artificial snows are currently recognised as being safe to use around these sites, but safe options do exist and are already recognised by many bodies. These, when used in conjunction with artificial ice, create stunning scenes over water that are as good as nature’s own.
Nothing however can beat having mile upon mile of the real thing, massive vistas with endless snow covered scenery allowing camera freedom in a way unrivalled by artificial or computer generated substitutes. Add artificial snow support to this and there is no limit to what can be achieved whilst on location.