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How Do You Like Them Apple Boxes?!

Writer's picture: T.J. CrumeT.J. Crume

Updated: Oct 11, 2024

Apple box upright, New York

Ah, the apple box. The humble apple box is a gem on film/photography sets that probably gets used on a daily basis, usually used to prop objects, to stand on, or to sit on.


Apple box as set, Los Angeles

Person carrying a stack of apple boxes

Apply box in loading bay

Photographer sitting on the apple box

The apple boxes come in a few different sizes– Full, half, quarter and pancake. I'm sure we are all familiar with this, but there are also fun nicknames for apple boxes when someone wants them to be placed in a certain position. These nicknames are based off three major U.S. cities: New York, Chicago, and L.A. New York position: the apple box stands tallest on its smallest side. • Chicago position: the apple box lays on its narrow, long edge. Also known as Texas. • L.A. position: the apple box lays completely flat on its widest and longest edge.


Apple box position chart

For instance, say you want to place the camera on an apple box laid completely flat, one would ask for it to be placed “L.A. style.” Or if you wanted to use it as a seat, you can ask a grip to stand it up “New York.”


Apple box on set, New York

Apple box with laptop on top, New York

Couple of apple boxes on set

Camera person sitting on apple box

So how do YOU use apple boxes on set? Are there any great tips that most camera assistants overlook when using apple boxes?


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