Set design!

 Picking a location:

Things have finally started to get real, I start filming next week!! But before the cameras roll,  I need to stay organized, plan ahead, and finalize the mise-en-scène for my movie opening. One of the most important elements is set design, which means choosing the perfect location. My only location is basically going to be a cafe, I wanted to do some research beforehand to find one that really matched the vibe I was trying to go for. Here are some places I think would be a great fit:

1.  Press & Grind Cafe

Since I want to show Joseph’s luxurious city life, I had to step out of my hometown, more of a suburban style. Press and Grind Cafe was one of the first spots I checked out. The interior was nice, but it wasn’t giving what I needed. Too much open space, not enough character. It just didn’t have the right feel, something about it felt off. So, onto the next! On a side note I want to come here for the food, everything looks delicious on the menu.

  2. Living Green Cafe

The next spot I found was through TikTok (because where else do you find the best hidden gems?). And let me just say, it’s absolutely beautiful. The kind of place I’d love to go just for the vibes, even outside of filming. This one is still on my list of possibilities because it’s that good. The only thing is, for my outdoor shots, I really want those city views to emphasize Joseph’s lifestyle. But honestly, that’s an easy fix, I can just take separate shots in the city and edit them together to make it look like my character actually stepped outside. A little movie magic never hurt anyone.

3. Rose's Coffee Bar 

And then... I found it. Like it was waiting for me. This spot is perfect. From the inside to the outside, 

everything just clicks. The atmosphere, the layout, the way it just feels right, it’s exactly what I was looking for. It captures Joseph’s lifestyle effortlessly, that blend of luxury and city charm that I’ve been trying to find. The details even the way the lighting hits, it all just works. This might actually be THE ONE. Finally, after searching, scrolling, and second-guessing, I think I’ve found the perfect place to bring this scene to life. 

Like wow lets take a moment to admire this!

Finding the perfect location for my cafe was honestly the easy part. Now, I’m diving into the real fun, incorporating my other mise-en-scène elements, like costume and props, to bring everything to life. How will the characters' outfits reflect their personalities? What small details in the cafe will hint to the big event in the story? I’ve got some exciting ideas in the works, so stay tuned for the next blog where I’ll spill all those little details! 

Sources:

1. https://www.yelp.com/Aesthetic+Cafe

2. Rose's Coffee Bar

3. Living Green Tiktok